Shay Mitchell, the talented actress and entrepreneur, has captivated audiences with her performances and dynamic personal brand. Known for her role on Pretty Little Liars, Shay has extended her reach beyond acting, launching successful businesses and fostering a strong online presence. In a recent interview, she answered some of the most searched questions about her life, revealing personal insights that showcase her journey, passions, and the challenges she has overcome.

Early Life of Shay Mitchell

A Canadian Girl At Heart

Shay Mitchell was born Shannon Ashley Mitchell in Mississauga, Ontario, a city outside of Toronto. Growing up there until she was about 12 years old, Shay fondly recalls returning to Canada and savoring iconic snacks like Tim Horton’s Timbits and double-doubles. The cultural roots she developed in her formative years have played a significant part in shaping her identity.

Journey to Acting

Interestingly, Shay did not pursue acting during high school, despite the influence of friends in drama classes. “I wanted to get my wild out and just be completely free,” she says. However, after finishing high school, Shay recognized her passion for performance and began taking acting classes. Her journey into the entertainment industry was fueled by determination and the desire to share her stories.

Professional Highlights

Breakthrough Roles and Acclaim

Shay’s career took off after appearing in Pretty Little Liars, which brought her significant fame. She also had a cameo in Degrassi, the iconic Canadian series, lending authenticity to her Canadian credentials. Working alongside Jennifer Aniston in Mother’s Day and on the thrilling series You showcased her versatility and capacity to engage varying audiences.

Launching Béis

One of Shay’s most exciting ventures is her brand, Béis, which focuses on stylish travel accessories and luggage. Inspired by her love for travel and an awareness of the market’s lack of affordable yet functional bags, Shay founded Béis to fill this gap. With hands-on involvement in every aspect, from design to marketing, Shay describes Béis as her firstborn. The brand resonates with customers looking for stylish solutions that don’t break the bank, emphasizing both function and aesthetic.

Personal Life and Relationships

Best Friends and Family

When asked about her best friends, Shay expresses gratitude for her deep connections. Oldest friend Joanie, who only calls her Shannon, exemplifies the strong bonds that have lasted over twenty years. And while Shay has a public persona, she identifies as someone different – a human whose curiosity drives her daily experiences.

Partner and Parenting

Shay is in a long-term relationship with Matt Babel, with whom she shares two daughters. Their relationship began when they met while Shay was working in bottle service at a Toronto club and has flourished into a partnership grounded in love, trust, and mutual respect.

Entrepreneurial Spirit

Co-founding Anda

In addition to Béis, Shay is also a co-founder of Anda, a tequila-based beverage brand. Driven by her love for ready-to-drink beverages, she was motivated to create healthier options that avoided high sugar content, adding a refreshing twist to the RTD market. Shay emphasizes the importance of passion in building her brands, aiming to connect with customers seeking quality products they can trust.

Language and Culture

Shay’s roots extend into her familial ties, giving her a unique perspective on cultural integration. While she does not speak Tagalog fluently, she jokes about knowing a few phrases—especially when it comes to expressing strong emotions, revealing a fun side to her experiences.

Fun Facts and Interests

Dancing and Reality TV

While Shay would not label herself a professional dancer, she enjoys engaging with dance and even takes dance classes for fun. Moreover, her brief stint on reality shows showcases her readiness to explore various forms of entertainment. She brings a playful heart to everything she does, whether taking on the role of Peach in You or storytelling in her upcoming series, Thirst.

New Ventures: Thirst

Shay’s latest project, Thirst, will debut on May 23. It intertwines her formidable interests in travel and beverages, exploring how drinks enhance culinary experiences. This series promises viewers a feast for both the eyes and palate, affirming Shay’s innovative approach to storytelling.

Conclusion

Shay Mitchell’s journey is a testament to her multifaceted talents and unyielding drive. From her Canadian upbringing to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, she continues to break boundaries as both an actress and businesswoman. Through her brands and new shows, she is redefining what it means to be an engaged and authentic public figure.

Whether you’ve followed her journey through her acting career or you’re discovering her entrepreneurial spirit for the first time, Shay’s story offers captivating insights into resilience and creativity. Follow her adventures, support her brands, and keep an eye out for her latest endeavors, including her show Thirst that opens a door to a world of beverages like never before!