"Heartland" Amber Marshall Reveals the Biggest Difference Between Her and Amy

Amber Marshall Says Amy Is “More Dramatic” Than Her — And That’s Exactly Why Fans Love Her

Amber Marshall has spent over 16 years playing Amy Fleming, the horse trainer at the heart of CBC’s Heartland. But how much does the actress really have in common with her iconic character? In a recent interview, Marshall reveals the surprising similarities and one difference that might catch fans off guard.

Amy’s Storylines Often Start at Home

It’s no secret that Marshall’s real-life ranch experience bleeds into her performance. “The writers definitely pull from my life,” Marshall admitted in a 2019 CBC interview. “At this point, Amy’s become more like me, and I’ve probably picked up some of her traits too.”

That real-life connection is especially clear in Amy’s bond with Spartan, played by a horse Marshall has known since day one. “Stormy, who plays Spartan, has been with me since season one,” she shared. “That bond you see on screen? It’s 100% real.”

The Big Difference Between Amy and Amber

Unlike Amy, who often finds herself in dramatic situations, Marshall describes herself as more easygoing off-screen.. “Amy has to be dramatic – otherwise what would we watch?” she laughed during her Hallmarkies Podcast appearance.

But the biggest revelation? Their different approaches to animals. “Amy’s got tunnel vision for horses,” Marshall explained. “Meanwhile, I’m out here obsessed with every animal on my farm. My chickens, dogs, cows – they all get equal love and attention.”

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

Despite these differences, Marshall acknowledges their shared core values. “At our foundation, we’re very similar,” she reflected. “But let’s just say I’ve got a wider circle of animal friends than Amy does.”

Maybe that mix of real-life experience and acting is part of what’s kept Heartland going strong for 18 seasons. Whether she’s filming on set or sharing moments from her ranch, Marshall brings the same grounded energy to both worlds – sometimes, the best characters come from the heart.

Amber Marshall may not be exactly like Amy Fleming—but after 16 years, their stories are deeply intertwined. And for Heartland fans, that connection just feels right.