June Diane Raphael
June Diane Raphael (born January 4, 1980) is an American actress, comedian, and screenwriter. From her improv roots to breakout roles in Grace and Frankie and Ass Backwards, explore her story, creative voice, and quotes that reflect her wit and wisdom.
Introduction
June Diane Raphael is a multifaceted talent in the world of entertainment—equally comfortable behind the camera as in front. Born on January 4, 1980, she has built a career blending comedy, acting, writing, and producing, while creating work that often highlights women’s perspectives in humorous and honest ways. From long-running sketch work to major television roles and podcasting, Raphael has made her mark by carving her own path.
Here’s a deeper look into her life, career trajectory, and some of her more memorable lines.
Early Life and Family
June Diane Raphael was born and raised in Rockville Centre, New York, on Long Island. John Raphael and Diane Raphael. Lauren and Deanna. Irish-American Catholic family.
She graduated from South Side High School in 1998.
Education & Early Creative Work
After high school, Raphael attended New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, where she pursued acting and related studies. Stella Adler Studio of Acting, deepening her theatrical training.
While still in New York, she formed a creative partnership with her friend Casey Wilson. Together, they studied improvisational comedy at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre (UCB). Rode Hard and Put Away Wet, which ran in New York and Los Angeles from about 2003 to 2006.
Career & Notable Works
Transition to TV & Film
Raphael’s career gradually expanded into television and film. She made guest appearances on shows like Party Down, New Girl, Happy Endings, and Inside Amy Schumer. NTSF:SD:SUV:: from 2011 to 2013. Burning Love.
In film, Raphael participated in major comedies and indie projects. She co-wrote and starred in Ass Backwards (2013) with Casey Wilson, which premiered at Sundance. Year One, Unfinished Business, Bride Wars, Blockers, The Disaster Artist, Long Shot, and others.
Breakthrough Role & Creative Expansion
Perhaps Raphael’s most widely recognized television role is Brianna Hanson on Netflix’s Grace and Frankie (2015–2022).
Beyond acting, Raphael has co-hosted the popular movie-podcast How Did This Get Made? with her husband Paul Scheer and Jason Mantzoukas. The Deep Dive with Jessica St. Clair.
In addition, Raphael co-authored Represent: The Woman’s Guide to Running for Office and Changing the World, a non-fiction book meant to encourage women toward public service.
As Grace and Frankie concluded its run, Raphael has expressed a desire to play more unconventional, “demented” female roles and push her creative boundaries.
Legacy & Influence
While June Diane Raphael is still in the midst of her active career, her influence is already notable:
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She represents a model of actor-writer hybrids in Hollywood—people who create vehicles for themselves rather than waiting for roles.
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Her work, particularly in sketch comedy and indie film, has contributed to more visible space for female voices in satire and comedy.
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Through her book and entrepreneurial ventures, she uses her platform to encourage women’s leadership beyond entertainment.
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As Grace and Frankie becomes a part of Netflix’s catalog, her role as a strong, opinionated younger generation in a senior ensemble helps bridge generational perspectives on aging, family, and empowerment.
Personality, Strengths & Creative Voice
Raphael is known for her wit, sharp comedic timing, and the ability to balance humor with sincerity. She often brings meta-awareness to her roles—characters who recognize the absurdities around them.
Her background in improv (UCB) suggests she values spontaneity, collaboration, and creative risk. She has also spoken about pushing herself into roles she might find uncomfortable—preferring to grow rather than stay safe.
Her public persona leans toward being outspoken, supportive of women’s causes, and keen to mentor or open doors for others. Her advocacy and entrepreneurial efforts signal that she sees her career as more than personal success—it’s meant to have ripple effects.
Famous Quotes
Here are some memorable quotes from June Diane Raphael that offer insight into her mindset:
“I force myself to perform, because if I didn’t, I’d stay home rolled up in a ball watching The Real Housewives of Orange County all day.”
From interviews about Grace and Frankie and her ambitions:
“Sometimes you think of people aging and you assume that it’s just time to relax … But I have been so inspired by how much they give… They don’t hold it and sit on it and offer it over and over.”On her creative desires:
“I feel like I have been a part of so many incredible things, but I’m always itching for just more. Just put me in. I have more to say.”
These reflect her self-awareness, drive, and hunger to expand creatively rather than remain comfortable.
Lessons from June Diane Raphael’s Journey
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Create your own opportunities.
Rather than waiting for roles, Raphael co-wrote and starred in Ass Backwards, helping define her own career path. -
Collaboration is powerful.
Her creative partnership with Casey Wilson was foundational; having trusted collaborators can open doors and sustain momentum. -
Don’t box yourself in by labels.
While comedy is her base, Raphael pursues dramatic or unconventional roles when possible, stretching her range. -
Use the platform for impact.
Her book, coworking ventures, and podcasting suggest that she sees art and advocacy as intertwined, not separate. -
Ambition needn’t be hidden.
Her statements about wanting “more” emphasize that it’s okay to want growth, evolution, new challenges—whatever that looks like.
Conclusion
June Diane Raphael’s career is a testament to creative agency, comedic integrity, and the evolving roles women can occupy in entertainment. From improv stages to Netflix series, from podcasting to authorship, she continues to build a multifaceted body of work. As she moves into new chapters, she remains someone to watch—not just for her next performance, but for the ideas she brings to the table.
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