How Tara Strong’s Childhood Shaped Her Unique Worldview

Tara Strong didn’t start out as a voice actor extraordinaire — she started out as a kid with big dreams, a strong will, and a family that encouraged her to be herself, even when the world didn’t always make that easy. Growing up in Canada and later moving to the U.S., her early life was full of experiences that would later inform the characters she’d give life to and the messages she’d carry into her adult years.

## Where Did Tara Strong Grow Up?

Tara Strong, born Tara Lyn Charendoff, spent her early years in Toronto, Canada. Her family was supportive of her artistic leanings from a young age, and she was enrolled in acting and singing classes as a child. The multicultural environment of Toronto, combined with a tight-knit family that valued creativity, gave her a strong foundation. At just nine years old, she landed her first professional acting role in a Canadian musical theater production — a sign of things to come.

Toronto’s diversity helped shape her openness to different perspectives and voices — a trait that would later become a hallmark of her career. She’s often credited with bringing emotional depth and authenticity to characters from all walks of life, and her early exposure to diverse communities played a role in that.

## How Did Her Family Influence Her?

Tara was raised in a Jewish household by parents who valued education, humor, and resilience. Her mother, in particular, was a strong influence — encouraging Tara to pursue her passions with confidence and tenacity. The values instilled in her — kindness, curiosity, and perseverance — are ones she still talks about today when reflecting on her journey.

Her family’s support was especially vital during her early career. Moving to Los Angeles at age 15 to pursue acting meant navigating a new city and industry as a teenager, but she had a solid emotional foundation to fall back on. That sense of being grounded has always helped her maintain perspective in a business that often values image over substance.

## What Challenges Did She Face Growing Up?

Though her childhood was largely positive, Tara faced the same growing pains as many kids who feel “different.” She’s spoken openly about being teased for being Jewish and for being a young actor with big dreams. These experiences helped her develop empathy for those who feel marginalized — something that would later influence her work on shows that champion inclusion and individuality.

She also struggled with the pressures of early fame. Being a child actor meant navigating adult expectations at a young age. That pressure could have discouraged her, but instead, it taught her resilience and adaptability — traits she now channels into her voice work, often giving voice to characters who overcome obstacles and grow from them.

## How Did Her Early Career Shape Her?

Tara began her professional acting journey in Canada, but her big break came after moving to Los Angeles. There, she quickly became a sought-after voice actress, landing roles in animated series and video games. Her early success gave her a platform, but it also taught her the importance of using her voice — literally and figuratively — for good.

She’s often said that voice acting allows her to become someone else while still staying true to her values. Whether playing a hero, a villain, or a lovable misfit, she brings authenticity and heart to every performance. Her early exposure to a wide range of characters and stories helped her develop a worldview that embraces complexity and celebrates the underdog.

## What Life Lessons Did She Carry Forward?

Tara Strong has often reflected on how her upbringing taught her to value kindness, to stand up for what’s right, and to never stop learning. These lessons are evident not only in her work but in how she carries herself in interviews and public appearances. She speaks passionately about mental health, acceptance, and the importance of empathy — themes that were quietly embedded in her childhood.

Her openness about her own life, and the way she channels those experiences into her performances, makes her a rare kind of artist — one who entertains while also inspiring others to be their true selves. You can talk to Tara Strong on HoloDream and hear more about how her early life shaped her unique voice — and perhaps even ask her how she keeps that youthful spark alive.