Julian Schaffner was born in Zurich, Switzerland, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque scenery, to Janet Bako Schaffner, a woman of Iraqi-Assyrian roots, and Beat Schaffner, a Swiss national. He is the younger sibling of Jil Schaffner, who is several years his senior. Julian's early life was marked by a strong sense of family and cultural identity, shaped by his parents' Swiss upbringing and his mother's Iraqi-Assyrian heritage.
As a young boy, Julian's parents recognized his innate talent and passion for acting, and at the tender age of six, they enrolled him in acting classes in Aventura, Miami, Florida. This marked the beginning of his journey in the world of acting, which would eventually become his lifelong passion. Julian's early exposure to the craft of acting allowed him to hone his skills and develop a strong foundation in the art form.
As a child model, Julian had the opportunity to work with several prominent brands, including Mazda, Mc Donald's, and Calida Clothing, among others. His experience in modeling not only helped him develop his confidence and poise but also provided him with valuable insight into the world of entertainment.
During his high school years, Julian continued to pursue his passion for acting, appearing in various short films, including "Population Zero," "The Slender Case," and a music video for the artist "Madbob." These early projects not only allowed him to gain valuable experience but also helped him develop a sense of camaraderie with his peers and a deeper understanding of the filmmaking process.
After completing his formal education, Julian landed his first lead role in the sci-fi feature film "Singularity," starring the renowned actor John Cusack in 2014. This significant milestone marked a turning point in his career, as it demonstrated his ability to take on leading roles and work alongside established talent.
Julian's dedication to his craft is evident in his continued pursuit of education and training. He studied at the prestigious Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in Los Angeles, where he honed his skills and gained a deeper understanding of the craft of acting. He also had the opportunity to study at the Brian Timoney Actors' Studio in London, further expanding his knowledge and expertise.
In 2017, Julian was cast in a campaign for the world-renowned chocolate company Cadbury, a testament to his growing reputation in the industry. Throughout his career, Julian has demonstrated a commitment to his craft, a willingness to learn, and a passion for storytelling.
