Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Coyle.
Hi Amber, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m just a Backwoods Barbie from Houston, TX. I started modeling and acting in Miami, FL, where I performed my first stand-up act. I’ve spent 20 years working in the industry and have a passion for comedy. I’ve trained at Groundlings, iO West, UCB, and the Nerdist and performed in improv troupes and several sketch comedies. I grew up idolizing Martin Lawrence, Chris Farley, and Jim Carrey.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
If only I had a dollar for every time someone asked me, “Do you have a time limit for yourself?” or “Do you have a backup plan?” My answer was always, “No. This is the only plan.” As a girl who grew up in a small town with big dreams, I knew I would be going against all odds but it’s the only thing I could ever visualize myself doing. I people pleased my way into a college degree in a field I never even ended up working in – interior design. It’s definitely been a bumpy road, with some quicksand and blowout tires along the way, LOL. This industry is not for the fragile- you have to be callused or you won’t survive. It takes confidence, hard work, a positive mindset, resilience, and perseverance to keep keepin’ on. Dream on baby!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
First and foremost, I’m an actress. I love comedy, it feeds my soul! We need more of it these days. I’ve spent many years modeling and gig-working as my side hustle to pay bills. I come from humble beginnings and continue to stay grounded. It’s been a grind for many years but the lessons and experiences are priceless. My absolute favorite job was my role on Black Jesus, graced by the comedy legend John Witherspoon. I’m most proud of the series, Up for Adoption, which I shot alongside Quinta Brunson at Buzzfeed. We had one season of laughs and wonderful experiences, including working with real pets with special needs up for adoption. I know most people judge a book by its cover, but I truly feel like I am not your typical blonde. My inner Chris Farley essence definitely sets me apart from other blondes. I have some exciting things in the works and I’m so grateful for the support and believers in my career and I continue to count my blessings.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Advice, absolutely! Unfortunately, there are a lot of people/entities ready to take advantage of the inexperienced and naive. I wish someone had warned me about the business side of entertainment. This applies to the modeling industry as well. There are so many layers and aspects of these industries that no one prepares you for. Always read your contracts and be sure you understand what you are signing. Trust your intuition when something doesn’t feel right. Don’t accept work to please others, do it because YOU want to! Seek great, reputable representation- someone that doesn’t just see you as a number but truly believes in you as an artist and pushes you in the direction you’re aiming. If you don’t feel that in your rep, on to the next because you’d be doing yourself a great disservice otherwise. Learn from people who have success in these areas and ask a lot of questions. I’ve had to learn a lot of things the hard way on my own, but at the same time, it has made me tougher and wiser at this point in my career and has prepared me for the next chapter. Can’t stop, won’t stop!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ambercoyle.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ambercoyle_/
- Other: imdb.me/ambercoyle
Image Credits
ExactDigital
