Amber Tamblyn Biography: Actress, Writer, and Cultural Critic
Amber Tamblyn is an American actress and writer, known for her diverse roles in film, television, and theater. She first gained national attention for her role as Emily Quartermaine on the soap opera General Hospital at the age of 11. She later starred in the CBS drama series Joan of Arcadia, playing Joan Girardi, a role that earned her Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe nominations.
Tamblyn’s film work includes notable roles in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, 127 Hours, and Stephanie Daley, for which she won Best Actress at the Locarno International Film Festival. In 2016, she made her directorial debut with the film Paint It Black.
Early Career and Breakout Roles
Tamblyn’s acting career took off early. She first gained attention for her role as Emily Quartermaine on the soap opera “General Hospital” at the age of 11. Her performance in the show earned her a Young Artist Award nomination.
A significant breakthrough came in 2003 when she landed the lead role in the television series “Joan of Arcadia.” Playing the titular character, a teenager who communicates with God, Tamblyn received critical acclaim and earned Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe nominations.
Film Career and Beyond
Tamblyn’s film career has also been prolific. She has appeared in a variety of films, including “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants,” “The Informers,” and “Django Unchained.” Her performances have showcased her versatility as an actress, from dramatic roles to comedic ones.
In addition to her acting career, Tamblyn is also a published author. She has written poetry and prose, exploring themes of love, loss, and identity. Tamblyn has written seven books across various genres and contributes to publications like The New York Times on issues of gender inequality and women’s rights.
A Multifaceted Artist
Amber Tamblyn’s career is a testament to her talent and versatility. As an actress, writer, and advocate, she continues to make a significant impact on the entertainment industry. Her ability to connect with audiences and tell compelling stories has solidified her place as a respected and admired figure in Hollywood.
Amber Tamblyn has received several awards and nominations for her acting. Here are some highlights:
- YoungStar Award: She won this award for her role as Emily Quartermaine on “General Hospital.”
- Golden Globe Nomination: She was nominated for Best Actress in a Television Series Drama for her role in “Joan of Arcadia.”
- Primetime Emmy Award Nomination: She received a nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for “Joan of Arcadia.”
- Saturn Award: She won the Saturn Award for Best Actress on Television for her performance in “Joan of Arcadia.”
Amber Tamblyn Age
Amber Tamblyn was born on May 14, 1983, which makes her 41 years old as of 2024. She is of American nationality and has a mixed ethnic background. Her birth sign is Taurus.
Amber Tamblyn Family, Parents, and Siblings
Amber Tamblyn comes from a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry. Her father, Russ Tamblyn, is a well-known actor and dancer, best remembered for his roles in “West Side Story” and “Twin Peaks.” Her mother, Bonnie Murray Tamblyn, is a singer and artist. Amber grew up in a creative environment, which greatly influenced her career path. She does not have any siblings, making her the sole child in the Tamblyn family.
Amber Tamblyn Education
Tamblyn attended the Santa Monica Alternative School House (SMASH), an institution known for its focus on creativity and individual learning paths. Her early exposure to the arts at SMASH played a crucial role in shaping her acting and writing skills. She was encouraged to pursue her passions from a young age, participating in school plays and taking an active interest in literature and poetry.
Notably, Amber Tamblyn did not attend a traditional college or university. Instead, she went to the Santa Monica Alternative School House, which she described as “very unorthodox, with no letter grades.” This unique educational background didn’t stop her from achieving significant success in her acting and writing careers.
Amber Tamblyn Career
Amber Tamblyn’s career began early, with her first significant role as Emily Quartermaine on the soap opera “General Hospital” at the age of 11. Her breakout role came in 2003 when she starred in the critically acclaimed television series “Joan of Arcadia,” earning her a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. She later appeared in popular TV series like “House” and “Two and a Half Men.”
Tamblyn’s film career includes roles in “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” and its sequel, “127 Hours,” and “Django Unchained.” Beyond acting, she has made a name for herself as a writer and director. Tamblyn has published several poetry books and novels, including “Free Stallion,” “Bang Ditto,” and “Any Man.” Her work often explores themes of feminism, identity, and social justice.
Acting Career
Amber Tamblyn has had a diverse and successful acting career. She first gained recognition for her role as Emily Quartermaine on the soap opera “General Hospital” from 1995 to 2001. Her performance earned her several award nominations and a YoungStar Award.
She then starred in the critically acclaimed TV series “Joan of Arcadia” (2003-2005), where she played the lead role of Joan Girardi, a teenager who talks to God. This role earned her a Golden Globe nomination and solidified her status as a talented actress.
Amber Tamblyn Movies and TV Shows
Amber Tamblyn has a long and impressive filmography, spanning both television and film. Here are some of her most notable works:
Television:
- Joan of Arcadia (2003-2005): A critically acclaimed series where Tamblyn played the titular character, a teenager who communicates with God.
- House (2004-2007): She had a recurring role as Martha M. Masters, a medical student who works under Dr. Gregory House.
- Two and a Half Men (2011-2013): Tamblyn appeared in several episodes as Jenny, a love interest for Walden Schmidt.
- The Unusuals (2009): A crime drama series where Tamblyn played a young detective.
- Y: The Last Man (2021): A post-apocalyptic series based on the graphic novel of the same name, where Tamblyn played Kimberly Campbell Cunningham.
Film:
- The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005) and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2 (2008): Tamblyn played Tibby Rollins, one of four friends who share a pair of magical pants.
- The Ring (2002): A horror film where Tamblyn played Katie Embry, a young girl haunted by a cursed videotape.
- 127 Hours (2010): A biographical drama based on the real-life story of Aron Ralston, where Tamblyn played his girlfriend, Megan McBride.
- Django Unchained (2012): A Quentin Tarantino film where Tamblyn played a plantation owner’s daughter.
- The Heyday of the Insensitive Bastards (2015): An independent comedy film where Tamblyn played Amanda, a woman who is struggling with her career.
This is just a small selection of Amber Tamblyn’s work. She has appeared in numerous other films and television shows throughout her career, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Writing Career
Amber Tamblyn has established herself as a versatile writer, with works spanning poetry, essays, and novels. Here are some highlights of her writing career:
Poetry
- “Free Stallion” (2005): Tamblyn’s debut poetry collection, which won the Borders Book Choice Award for Breakout Writing.
- “Bang Ditto” (2009): This collection further showcased her poetic talent and was well-received by critics.
- “Dark Sparkler” (2015): A poignant collection focusing on the lives and untimely deaths of young actresses in Hollywood. It received praise for its raw and emotional depth.
Novels
- “Any Man” (2018): Tamblyn’s debut novel, which explores the impact of sexual assault from the perspective of male survivors. The book was noted for its innovative narrative style and powerful themes.
Essays and Contributions
- “Era of Ignition: Coming of Age in a Time of Rage and Revolution” (2019): A memoir and collection of essays where Tamblyn discusses her experiences and views on feminism, activism, and the entertainment industry.
- Contributions to Publications: Tamblyn has written essays and articles for major publications like The New York Times, focusing on issues such as gender inequality, women’s rights, and social justice.
Other Works
- “The Loneliest” (2020): A collaboration with poet and artist Derrick C. Brown, blending poetry and visual art.
Tamblyn’s writing is known for its emotional honesty, social commentary, and advocacy for women’s rights. She continues to be an influential voice in both the literary and entertainment worlds.
Books
Amber Tamblyn has authored several books, showcasing her versatility as a writer. Here’s a detailed look at some of her notable works:
Any Man (2018)
This novel explores the impact of sexual assault on men, challenging societal norms and perceptions about gender and victimhood. It’s a powerful narrative that delves into the trauma and recovery of its characters.
Era of Ignition: Coming of Age in a Time of Rage and Revolution (2019)
In this memoir, Tamblyn reflects on her personal and professional journey, addressing themes of feminism, activism, and social justice. She shares her experiences and insights on navigating the complexities of modern womanhood.
Dark Sparkler (2015)
A collection of poems, Dark Sparkler focuses on the lives and untimely deaths of famous actresses. Tamblyn combines poetry with visual art, creating a haunting and evocative tribute to these women.
Listening in the Dark: Women Reclaiming the Power of Intuition (2022)
This anthology, edited by Tamblyn, features essays from various women on the theme of intuition. It encourages readers to trust their inner voices and reclaim their intuitive power.
Free Stallion: Poems (2005)
Tamblyn’s debut poetry collection, Free Stallion, won the Borders Book Choice Award for Breakout Writing. It showcases her early work and sets the stage for her future literary endeavors.
Bang Ditto (2009)
Another poetry collection, Bang Ditto continues to explore themes of identity, fame, and the human experience. It solidifies Tamblyn’s voice as a poet and writer.
The Punishment Gift (2016)
This limited edition book is a collaboration with artist Marilyn Manson. It combines poetry and visual art, offering a unique and provocative reading experience.
Tamblyn’s writing often addresses complex social issues and personal experiences, making her work both thought-provoking and deeply personal.
Amber Tamblyn Height, Weight, and Measurements
Amber Tamblyn stands at a height of 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) and weighs approximately 128 pounds (58 kg). She has a slender build, and her body measurements are estimated to be 34-26-35 inches. Tamblyn’s natural beauty and distinct style have made her a recognizable figure in the entertainment industry.
Amber Tamblyn Husband
Amber Tamblyn is married to actor and comedian David Cross. The couple met in 2007 and got engaged in 2011. They tied the knot in a private ceremony in 2012. Together, they have a daughter named Marlow Alice Cross, born in 2017. Tamblyn and Cross are known for their support of each other’s careers and their shared involvement in social and political activism.
Amber Tamblyn Net Worth
With a successful career in acting, writing, and directing, Amber Tamblyn has accumulated an estimated net worth of $3 million. Her wealth primarily stems from her successful career as an actress, author, and director.
Tamblyn has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including “Joan of Arcadia,” “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants,” and “127 Hours.” She has also published several books and directed the film “Paint It Black.”
What is Amber Tamblyn known for?
Amber Tamblyn is known for her work as an actress and author. She first gained national attention for her role as Emily Quartermaine on the soap opera General Hospital. She then starred as Joan Girardi in the TV series Joan of Arcadia, for which she received Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe nominations.
Tamblyn is also recognized for her roles in films such as The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants and 127 Hours. Additionally, she has published several books and writes on issues of gender inequality and women’s rage for various publications.
Are Amber Tamblyn and David Cross still married?
Yes, Amber Tamblyn and David Cross are still married. They met on a flight in 2007 and got married in October 2012. They have a daughter together, born in 2017. The couple has been open about the importance of effort and communication in their relationship, including participating in couples therapy to maintain a healthy marriage.
How Old Is Amber Tamblyn?
Amber Tamblyn is 41 years old, born on May 14, 1983. Her career spans over two decades, beginning in her early childhood and evolving into a multifaceted journey that includes acting, writing, and directing.
Is Amber Tamblyn any relation to Russ Tamblyn?
Yes, Amber Tamblyn is the daughter of Russ Tamblyn, an actor and dancer known for his roles in classic films like West Side Story and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Russ Tamblyn has been a significant influence in Amber’s life and career, even managing her career at one point.
What happened to Amber Tamblyn on House?
Amber Tamblyn joined the cast of House, M.D. in Season 7 as Martha M. Masters, a medical student who temporarily replaced Remy Hadley (Thirteen). Her character was known for her high IQ and fresh medical ideas, often clashing with Dr. Gregory House. Despite her academic success, she struggled socially. Tamblyn’s character left the show after one season, with her departure being a significant moment for the series.
Where Is Amber Tamblyn?
Amber Tamblyn currently resides in New York City with her husband, David Cross, and their daughter. She continues to work on various projects in the entertainment industry, including acting, writing, and directing. In addition to her creative work, Tamblyn is an active advocate for women’s rights and frequently participates in public speaking engagements and activism.
Amber Tamblyn is quite active on social media, where she shares updates about her work, activism, and personal life. You can follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
In addition to social media, Amber occasionally posts on her blog, where she shares longer-form content and personal reflections. This is another way for her to engage deeply with her audience.
Amber uses these platforms to advocate for causes she believes in, share her creative work, and connect with her fans. If you’re interested in her latest updates and insights, following her on these platforms is a great way to stay informed.
