Amber Rose Tamblyn is a versatile American actress, author, and cultural critic, known for her roles in film and television as well as her impactful writing.
Acting Career
- Early Roles:
- Tamblyn first gained national attention with her role as Emily Quartermaine on the soap opera “General Hospital” at the young age of 11.
- She then starred in the prime-time series “Joan of Arcadia” as the title character, Joan Girardi, earning her Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe nominations.
- Film Roles:
- “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” (2005): Tamblyn played the role of Tibby Rollins in this popular film.
- “127 Hours” (2010): She portrayed Megan McBride in this critically acclaimed movie.
- “Stephanie Daley” (2006): Tamblyn won Best Actress at The Locarno International Film Festival for her role in this film opposite Tilda Swinton.
- “Paint It Black” (2016): She made her directorial debut with this film based on Janet Fitch’s novel.
- Television Work:
- “Joan of Arcadia”: Tamblyn starred as Joan Girardi, a teenage girl visited by God, on this CBS drama series.
- “House”: She played medical student Martha M. Masters in the seventh season of this Fox medical drama.
- “Two and a Half Men”: Tamblyn portrayed Jenny, Charlie Harper’s long-lost daughter, in this sitcom.
- “Y: The Last Man” (2021): She starred opposite Diane Lane in the FX series based on the graphic novel.
- Other Appearances:
- Tamblyn has appeared in various shows and films such as “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “CSI: Miami,” “The Grudge 2,” “Inside Amy Schumer,” and “Portlandia.”
Writing Career
- Published Books:
- Tamblyn is a published author with seven books across genres, including poetry and memoirs.
- “Free Stallion” (2005): Her debut book of poems written between ages 11 and 21.
- “Dark Sparkler” (2015): A collection exploring the lives of child star actresses, featuring original art from various artists.
- “Any Man” (2018): Her first novel, centered on a serial female rapist who preys on men.
- “Era of Ignition” (2019): A memoir and feminist manifesto reflecting on feminism during divisive times.
- Cultural Criticism:
- Tamblyn writes for publications like The New York Times, focusing on issues of gender inequality and women’s rage.
- She reviews books of poetry for BUST Magazine and has contributed to the Poetry Foundation’s blog, Harriet.
- Poetry Performances:
- Tamblyn has self-published chapbooks of poetry and participated in poetry readings.
- She appeared in the poetry concert film “The Drums Inside Your Chest” and has written poems featured in various publications.
Personal Life
- Family Ties:
- Tamblyn’s father is actor Russ Tamblyn, known for roles in “West Side Story” and “Twin Peaks.”
- Her mother, Bonnie Murray, is a singer, teacher, and artist.
- She has described her parents’ influence on her life, especially in her artistic pursuits.
- Marriage and Motherhood:
- Tamblyn married actor-comedian David Cross in 2012, and they have a daughter together.
- She has shared personal experiences, including challenges in her relationship with her parents, in her writing.
- Activism:
- Tamblyn is a feminist and supported Hillary Clinton during the 2016 U.S. presidential election.
- She is a co-founder of Time’s Up, an organization combatting workplace sexual harassment.
- Political Engagement:
- Tamblyn has been politically active, urging voters to check voter ID requirements and signing open letters to political figures.
- She has engaged in social and political issues, including advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Amber Rose Tamblyn’s career spans across multiple creative fields, from acting and directing to writing and activism. Her work reflects a deep engagement with societal issues, particularly those concerning gender equality and justice. As an artist and advocate, Tamblyn continues to use her voice to shed light on important causes and create meaningful conversations through her art and writing.