Emily Deschanel Now: Beyond Bones & Her Exciting New Ventures

Oliver Brakus 19 Jun 2025

For over a decade, Emily Deschanel captivated audiences worldwide as the brilliant, socially awkward forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance "Bones" Brennan in the hit Fox series, *Bones*. Her portrayal of the character was iconic, earning her a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. But as the show concluded its impressive run, many fans naturally wondered: what happened to Emily Deschanel? Where is she now, and what new projects has she embarked upon?

The answer is clear: Emily Deschanel hasn't disappeared from the Hollywood scene. In fact, she's been steadily building on her impressive career, exploring diverse roles, and even venturing into new media with a highly anticipated podcast. This article delves into her journey post-*Bones*, offering a comprehensive look at her recent roles, personal life insights, and what the future holds for this talented American actress.

A Brief Biography of Emily Deschanel

Emily Erin Deschanel, born on October 11, 1976, is an American actress who has carved a significant niche for herself in the entertainment industry. Hailing from a family deeply rooted in filmmaking – her father, Caleb Deschanel, is an acclaimed cinematographer, and her mother, Mary Jo Deschanel, is an actress – Emily was seemingly destined for a life in front of the camera. Her sister, Zooey Deschanel, is also a well-known actress and singer, making them one of Hollywood's notable sibling duos. Emily's early career saw her in various film and television roles, but it was her casting as Dr. Temperance "Bones" Brennan in the Fox crime procedural *Bones* in 2005 that truly launched her into international stardom. For twelve seasons, she anchored the show with her nuanced portrayal of the highly intelligent, rational, and often socially awkward forensic anthropologist. Her chemistry with co-star David Boreanaz (who played FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth) was a cornerstone of the show's immense success, earning her a People's Choice Award nomination and solidifying her status as a beloved television personality. The role showcased her ability to blend complex scientific jargon with genuine human emotion, making a character who could have been purely academic deeply relatable and endearing. After *Bones* concluded its run in 2017, fans eagerly awaited her next moves. The question of "Emily Deschanel now" became a frequent search query, reflecting the strong connection audiences felt with her character and her as an actress. True to her versatile nature, Emily has since taken on roles that demonstrate her range and willingness to explore different genres, proving that her talent extends far beyond the forensic lab.

Personal Data and Biodata

To provide a clearer picture of Emily Deschanel now, here's a quick look at some key personal and professional data:

Category	Detail
Full Name	Emily Erin Deschanel
Born	October 11, 1976
Age (as of 2024)	47 years old
Place of Birth	Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Occupation	Actress
Notable Role	Dr. Temperance "Bones" Brennan in Bones
Sister	Zooey Deschanel (Actress)
Spouse	David Hornsby (Actor, Writer)
Children	2 sons

Emily Deschanel's Post-Bones Career: Embracing New Roles

The conclusion of *Bones* in 2017 marked a significant turning point for Emily Deschanel. Instead of resting on her laurels, she actively sought out new and challenging roles that allowed her to stretch her acting muscles beyond the confines of a long-running procedural. Her choices reflect a desire to explore different facets of storytelling and character development, keeping her career dynamic and engaging for both herself and her audience. This period truly defines Emily Deschanel now, as she continues to evolve as an artist.

Stepping into the World of Animal Kingdom

One of Emily Deschanel's most notable post-*Bones* roles came in 2019 when she joined the cast of the TNT crime drama series *Animal Kingdom*. This was a significant departure from the network television procedural she was known for. In *Animal Kingdom*, she took on the recurring role of Angela, a former friend of Julia Cody (Smurf's deceased daughter) and a recovering addict. Angela's character brought a complex dynamic to the already volatile Cody family, adding layers of mystery and tension. Her performance in *Animal Kingdom* showcased a grittier, more vulnerable side of her acting, far removed from the stoic Dr. Brennan. It allowed her to delve into a character battling personal demons and navigating a dangerous criminal underworld, proving her versatility and ability to adapt to darker, more intense narratives. This role was a clear signal that Emily Deschanel now was ready to tackle diverse and challenging projects.

A Memorable Cameo on The Rookie

In 2021, fans were delighted to see Emily Deschanel make a cameo appearance on the ABC police procedural *The Rookie*. This brief but impactful role reunited her with her former *Bones* co-star, Nathan Fillion, who stars as John Nolan. While it was a short appearance, it served as a pleasant surprise for viewers and a nod to her past success, reminding everyone of her enduring presence in the television landscape. Such appearances highlight her continued relevance and connection within the industry, demonstrating that Emily Deschanel now is still very much in demand for various projects.

Starring in the Suspense Thriller Devil in Ohio

A major highlight of Emily Deschanel's recent career is her starring role in the Netflix suspense thriller *Devil in Ohio*, which premiered in September 2022. In this limited series, she plays Dr. Suzanne Mathis, a hospital psychiatrist who takes in a mysterious young cult escapee, only to find her own family's safety and sanity jeopardized. This role offered Emily a compelling opportunity to lead a series once again, but in a genre vastly different from *Bones*. As Dr. Mathis, she portrayed a woman grappling with moral dilemmas, psychological tension, and the disintegration of her seemingly perfect life. The series allowed her to explore themes of trauma, family dynamics, and the dark underbelly of cults, showcasing her dramatic depth and ability to carry a complex narrative. Her performance was widely praised, reaffirming her status as a leading actress and giving audiences a clear picture of Emily Deschanel now, taking on more mature and intense roles.

The Enduring Legacy of Bones and Revival Whispers

Despite her new ventures, the shadow of *Bones* looms large, and for good reason. The show ran for 12 seasons, amassing a loyal global fanbase. Even years after its finale, the question of a *Bones* revival frequently surfaces among fans and in interviews with the cast. Emily Deschanel herself has addressed these rumors, indicating that while she wasn't necessarily expecting a call for a series revival from her former *Bones* costar David Boreanaz, she's certainly "not mad about it." This sentiment reflects the deep affection she holds for the show and its characters, as do many of her former castmates. The continued interest in a revival speaks volumes about the impact *Bones* had on popular culture and the enduring appeal of its characters. Fans are still clamoring to find out what happened to Emily Deschanel, David Boreanaz, and the rest of the cast of *Bones*, and where the show's stars are today. This ongoing curiosity underscores the powerful connection viewers forged with the series and its talented ensemble.

Boneheads: A Rewatch Podcast for the Fans

Perhaps one of the most exciting developments for *Bones* fans, and a clear indication of Emily Deschanel now, is the launch of her rewatch podcast, *Boneheads*. Produced by Lemonada Media, this podcast finally aired in September 2024. Emily co-hosts the podcast with Carla Gallo, who recurred as Daisy Wick on *Bones*. The concept of *Boneheads* is simple yet brilliant: Deschanel and Gallo get together to rewatch episodes of *Bones* and share their insights, memories, and behind-the-scenes stories. This initiative is a direct response to the persistent fan demand for more *Bones* content and a way for the actresses to reconnect with the material that defined a significant portion of their careers. However, the podcast isn't just a nostalgic trip down memory lane. On an episode that released back in September 2024, Deschanel candidly shared that she has "some misgivings rewatching the show." She elaborated, "I would say it makes..." implying a complex emotional response to revisiting such a formative period of her life. This honesty adds a unique layer to the podcast, offering fans a more personal and unfiltered perspective on the show from the very people who brought it to life. *Boneheads* is a testament to Emily Deschanel now, engaging directly with her fanbase and reflecting on her past work in a meaningful way.

Family Life and Enduring Friendships

Beyond her professional commitments, Emily Deschanel maintains a rich personal life. She is married to actor and writer David Hornsby, known for his role as Rickety Cricket in *It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia*. Together, they have two sons. While she generally keeps her family life private, it's clear that her roles as a wife and mother are central to her identity. Her relationships with former *Bones* castmates also remain strong. Michaela Conlin, who played Angela Montenegro on the show, remains close friends with Emily Deschanel more than half a decade after *Bones* left the airwaves. Conlin often shares updates and glimpses into their friendship on her Instagram account, showcasing the genuine bonds formed on set that have lasted well beyond the series finale. These enduring friendships highlight the positive environment of the *Bones* set and Emily's personable nature, giving fans another look at Emily Deschanel now, surrounded by lasting connections. It's also worth noting the continued public interest in her and her sister Zooey Deschanel. Both are successful actresses, and their familial connection often sparks curiosity. While both have carved out distinct career paths, they remain a prominent sibling duo in Hollywood. Interestingly, the *Bones* actress once said that she, alongside Zooey, does not pay for certain things, a humorous anecdote that occasionally surfaces in interviews, showcasing their down-to-earth personalities.

Clarifying "Emily": The Film vs. The Actress

It's important to clarify a common point of confusion that arises when discussing "Emily Deschanel now" and recent film titles. There is a 2022 British biographical drama film titled *Emily*, which has garnered significant attention. This film, written and directed by Frances O'Connor in her directorial debut, imagines the transformative, exhilarating, and uplifting journey to womanhood of Emily Brontë, the celebrated British author of *Wuthering Heights*. The film *Emily* is not about Emily Deschanel, nor does she star in it. It documents the brief yet eventful life of Emily Brontë, taking place before the Brontë sisters all started getting published. The movie delves into how work was growing in them and explores the enduring question that has "dogged critics for two centuries now: How on earth could a..." woman from such a secluded background produce such powerful literature. The film's title, "Emily," refers to Emily Brontë, and it explores her journey to becoming the mind behind *Wuthering Heights*. The name "Emily" itself is a strong and gentle name, coming from the original medieval Roman name Aemilius, and has been a popular baby name for girls in America for many years. It was the number one baby name from 1996 to 2007 and consistently in the top 10 from 1991 to 2016. Since then, it has remained one of the top 25. While this historical context of the name "Emily" is interesting, it is crucial to distinguish the biographical film *Emily* from the actress Emily Deschanel.

What's Next for Emily Deschanel Now?

Evidently, Emily Deschanel hasn't disappeared entirely from the Hollywood scene. Her recent roles in *Animal Kingdom*, *The Rookie*, and *Devil in Ohio* demonstrate her commitment to diverse projects and her continued relevance in the industry. The launch of her *Boneheads* podcast also shows her willingness to engage with new media and connect with her fanbase in innovative ways. It stands to reason that she'll continue to pop up in more film and TV projects in the future. Given her talent, versatility, and the enduring affection of her fans, her career trajectory remains promising. Whether it's another dramatic series, a film role, or even more seasons of her popular podcast, fans can expect to see Emily Deschanel now continuing to make her mark on entertainment. Guests for her podcast are subject to cancellation or schedule change due to professional commitments, highlighting her ongoing busy schedule. Although most guests are available for the duration of an event, due to limited availability, it underscores the fact that Emily is a sought-after professional. Emily Deschanel's journey post-*Bones* is a testament to her dedication as an actress and her ability to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving industry. She continues to be a beloved figure, and her fans eagerly await her next move, confident that whatever it is, it will be delivered with her signature talent and grace.

In conclusion, Emily Deschanel now is a busy actress and podcast host, actively engaged in new projects while also fondly revisiting her iconic past. From intense thrillers to a nostalgic rewatch podcast, she continues to entertain and connect with her audience. What are your favorite Emily Deschanel roles post-*Bones*? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don't forget to check out her *Boneheads* podcast for a deeper dive into the world of *Bones*!

Emily Deschanel Reveals the Sweet Reason She Took Two Years Off After

Emily Deschanel arrives for the Bones party to celebrate their 200th

Emily Deschanel

The ALTnets Members Hub