Shay Mitchell Reflects On Lifelong Friendship With “Pretty Little Liars” Co-stars

Shay Mitchell has built a forever friendship with her Pretty Little Liars costars, Ashley Benson and Troian Bellisario — and now, motherhood has brought them even closer.

Speaking with PEOPLE at an H&M event in New York City on November 18, the 37-year-old actress shared her admiration for her former castmates, especially as they navigate life as mothers.

“That friendship will be one we’ll have for a lifetime and it’s just so awesome to see both of them grow into mothers,” she stated.

Shay, who shares two daughters — Rome, 2, and Atlas, 5 — with her boyfriend Matte Babel, revealed that Troian has been a guiding light in her parenting journey. “Troian’s given me so much advice and it’s really great that we still have this amazing friendship,” she stated.

Troian is mom to two daughters, Aurora, 6, and Elliot, 3, with her husband, actor Patrick J. Adams. Meanwhile, Ashley became a mom earlier this year, welcoming her 8-month-old daughter, Aspen, with her husband, Brandon Davis.

The trio’s bond dates back to their time on Pretty Little Liars, where they starred together for seven seasons from 2010 to 2017. The hit teen drama, based on Sara Shepard’s book series, followed five teenage girls who are tormented by an anonymous figure. Alongside Shay, Troian, and Ashley, the show also featured Lucy Hale and Janel Parrish in leading roles.

While Shay treasures her time on the show, she’s hesitant to revisit it anytime soon, especially with her kids. During an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show in June, she laughed about Matte’s suggestion that they should watch the series as a family. “He’s like, ‘The day Atlas is old enough, we’re going to watch it back.’ I’m like ‘My eyebrows are real thin shooting that entire season. I don’t know if I’m ready,’” she shared.

Shay has long credited Troian as a source of wisdom since becoming a mom. After the birth of her first daughter, she told Entertainment Tonight how much she valued Troian’s support. “She has been the person I’ve gone to for the most advice,” Shay said, adding, “She is not only such an incredible person, but the best mom ever.”