Daughter of Caleb Deschanel and Mary Jo Deschanel.

Went to high school with her Almost Famous (2000) co-star Kate Hudson.

Sister of actress Emily Deschanel.

Graduated from Crossroads School for Arts and Sciences in Santa Monica.

She spent several summers at camp upstate New York at French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts. She was also featured in the video for The Offspring's song "She's Got Issues" and the accompanying MTV documentary "Making the Video." She also plays ukulele for the band If All the Stars Were Pretty Babies.

Attended Northwestern University.

Wrote a screenplay titled "Circus Girl" with friend Jackson Nash. Circus Girl involves a witch, evil flying red ballons, and a giant diamond. Zooey plans to star in the film as the nerdy main character.

Is a big fan of actress Parker Posey.

Interests include jazz singing, philosophy, fashion, and photography.

Did her own singing in the movie Elf (2003).

Plays the piano and the baritone ukulele.

One of her favorite songs is "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey.

Has performed with Jackson Nash's comedy group, Manifest Destinyfest.

Turned down a role in Bully (2001) to star in Big Trouble (2002).

Loves Ella Fitzgerald.

Is part of the cabaret group called If All the Stars Were Pretty Babies

Shares her birthday with James Earl Jones and Jim Carey.

Dated actor Jason Schwartzman (and guest-starred on the show Cracking Up, which he was in)

From imdb.com