Heartland’s Amber Marshall Reveals the Biggest Difference Between Her and Amy

Amber Marshall has been Amy Fleming for over 16 years, the heart and soul of CBC’s Heartland. But how much of Amy is actually Amber — and how much is pure acting? In a recent interview, she opened up about the similarities, the differences, and the one trait that still makes her laugh.

Amy’s Storylines Often Start at Home

It’s no secret that Heartland’s writers pull from Amber’s real ranch life.

“The writers definitely pull from my life,” she told CBC back in 2019. “At this point, Amy’s become more like me, and I’ve probably picked up some of her traits too.”

One of the most authentic connections? Her bond with Spartan. The horse fans have loved for years is played by Stormy, a horse Amber has known since day one.

“Stormy has been with me since season one,” she said. “That bond you see on screen? It’s 100% real.”

The Big Difference Between Amy and Amber

While Amy often finds herself at the center of big, emotional moments, Amber says she’s much calmer in real life.

“Amy has to be dramatic — otherwise what would we watch?” she joked during her Hallmarkies Podcast appearance.

There’s also a difference in their animal priorities.

“Amy’s got tunnel vision for horses,” Amber explained. “Meanwhile, I’m out here obsessed with every animal on my farm. My chickens, dogs, cows — they all get equal love.”

Why Fans Can’t Tell Where Amy Ends and Amber Begins

Even with those differences, the two share the same foundation.

“At our core, we’re very similar,” Amber said. “But let’s just say I’ve got a wider circle of animal friends than Amy does.”

That mix of real-life ranch experience and natural performance might be the secret to Heartland’s lasting success. Whether she’s on set or at home, Amber brings the same warmth and authenticity — proving that sometimes, the most unforgettable characters come straight from the heart.