Shelley Long Quotes

Powerful Shelley Long for Daily Growth

About Shelley Long

Shelley Neill Long (born October 3, 1949) is an American actress, comedian, and writer who gained prominence as a cast member on the iconic television series "Saturday Night Live" and later for her leading role in the sitcom "Cheers." Born in Santa Barbara, California, Long developed an early interest in performing arts, participating in school plays and local theater productions. After graduating from the University of Arizona with a degree in drama, Long moved to New York City to pursue her acting career. She joined the cast of "Saturday Night Live" in 1980, where she became known for her impression of Bette Midler and her comedic characters, such as Daisy Ka loo Kala Wi Tiki, a Hawaiian tour guide. In 1982, Long left SNL to focus on film work, starring in movies like "Clue" (1985) and the romantic comedy "Troop Beverly Hills" (1989), for which she received a Golden Globe nomination. However, her most significant television role came with the sitcom "Cheers," where she played Diane Chambers from 1982 to 1993. Her portrayal of the intelligent, witty, and often disillusioned bar patron earned her three Emmy Awards and cemented her status as a TV icon. Long's later career includes voice acting in animated films like "The Brave Little Toaster" (1987) and "Tarzan" (1999), as well as appearances on shows such as "Hot in Cleveland" and "Modern Family." Her memoir, "Trophy Wife: The Truth, According to Me," was published in 2011. Throughout her career, Long's sharp wit, comedic timing, and ability to create memorable characters have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I always thought 'Sex and the City' was a very funny show about four women who were friends, and they would go through different issues in their relationships."

Shelley Long's quote about "Sex and the City" suggests that she views the show as a humorous portrayal of four female friends navigating various relationship challenges. The emphasis on friendship and relatability is key, with the characters dealing with universal issues that resonate with viewers. This perspective highlights the show's ability to entertain while exploring important themes related to love, friendship, and women's experiences in modern society.


"I don't think I ever really had a role model - but if I did it would have been Lucille Ball."

This quote suggests that Shelley Long didn't have a specific individual she looked up to as a role model, but if she did, it would have been Lucille Ball. This implies that Long admired the comedic talent, charisma, and screen presence of Lucille Ball greatly, likely seeing her as an inspiration in her own acting career. It also suggests that Long appreciates the unique style of humor and performance that Ball brought to her iconic role in "I Love Lucy."


"To truly laugh, you need to be able to let go of things that upset you."

This quote by Shelley Long suggests that genuine laughter is not only a result of joy or amusement, but also of emotional release. To achieve this deep, fulfilling laughter, one must first learn to let go of grudges, disappointments, and upsetting situations – allowing peace and tranquility to take their place, thus opening the heart and mind for genuine, stress-relieving laughter.


"The best kind of friendship is the one in which the other person always sees the best in you and encourages you to become the person you aspire to be."

This quote suggests that a valuable friendship is one where your friend not only perceives your positive qualities but also motivates and supports you to reach your full potential, as embodied by the person you strive to be. Essentially, such a bond fosters personal growth and self-improvement in a nurturing environment.


"I think it's important for women to have female friends they can confide in, because there are certain things we share that men just don't understand."

Shelley Long's quote emphasizes the importance of female friendship and confidants among women. She suggests that due to shared experiences and perspectives unique to women, they may find it beneficial to have friends with whom they can freely express thoughts, feelings, or personal issues without fear of being misunderstood or judged by men. This notion underscores the value of empathy, understanding, and connection in female friendships that help women navigate their lives and emotions more effectively.


I don't get bothered about statistics. If somebody had pointed out to me the odds of my being a working actress getting paid for what she does, I probably would have quit early in the game.

- Shelley Long

Game, About, Had, Pointed

I think, head up and shoulders back. Not only does it make you look taller and thinner but it gives you confidence and boosts your self-esteem.

- Shelley Long

Think, Shoulders, Taller, Boost

If it's not some daring, dangerous affair, it's just not interesting, or so it seems. So, here you have two people - a famous American iconic couple - who actually like each other sexually, in marriage. Imagine.

- Shelley Long

Here, Some, Couple, Affair

I've helped people get rid of headaches by placing my hand on their forehead, and backaches by placing my hand on their back. It's a powerful example of love that really works.

- Shelley Long

Love, Forehead, Works, Placing

Did you know that, if you visualise, you can actually hug on the phone?

- Shelley Long

Phone, Actually, Visualise, Hug

Not everyone can be trusted. I think we all have to be very selective about the people we trust.

- Shelley Long

Trust, Think, Very, Selective

There was always a feeling for me that it would work. That's what keeps me going. You go in with a positive attitude and stay there, and that's a big part of what does make it work.

- Shelley Long

Big, Always, Big Part, Keeps

If you don't quit, and don't cheat, and don't run home when trouble arrives, you can only win.

- Shelley Long

Quit, Cheat, Only, Trouble

I'm a real 'go, go' person... I'd make myself crazy by pushing too hard. It's important to pull pack the reins a little bit and get in touch with what's inside.

- Shelley Long

Myself, Go, Touch, Pack

I don't believe in predestination, even though I was raised a Presbyterian.

- Shelley Long

Predestination, Though, Even, I Was Raised

I'm not perfect, but I'd like to be perfect. I'm working on it.

- Shelley Long

Working, Perfect, Like, Not Perfect

I like men to be men and I like them to care about me and to take care of me. I'm willing to let them do that.

- Shelley Long

Like, Willing, Take, Take Care

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