Amy Carlson

About Amy Carlson

Amy Carlson's journey began in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, though the Chicago vicinity would become her childhood stomping ground for the most part. A significant chapter unfolded during her junior high years when her family relocated to the Middle East. There, her parents, Bob and Barb, dedicated their careers to teaching at the American School. Amy is one of four children, with two sisters, Betsy and Lori, and a brother named Joe. Her adventurous spirit was evident early on, as she explored Europe extensively, both with her family and independently. Her parents' profession as educators fostered a tradition of summer travel and camping across the United States, a pursuit that saw them visit every state except Alaska. In 1994, Amy also contributed to relief efforts in Rwanda following the war.

From a young age, Amy displayed a natural aptitude for the arts, participating in school plays and achieving recognition for her writing. During her high school years, she also excelled in athletics, earning a place in the inaugural 3200-meter relay for Illinois girls' track. Her college path at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois, saw a pivot. Following an injury that redirected her athletic pursuits, she rediscovered her passion for theater, taking on numerous stage roles. Her theatrical endeavors included a debut in Lanford Wilson's "Fifth of July" and directing Wallace Shawn's "Aunt Dan and Lemon." She graduated from Knox College cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in East Asian history, complemented by a theater concentration.

Relocating to Chicago after college, Amy delved deeper into her craft, studying improv at the Improv Olympic and acting at The Actor's Center. A pivotal opportunity arose when she secured a contract role on the now-defunct soap opera Another World, leading her to New York City shortly after her graduation. Her television career has been marked by significant recognition, including a Daytime Emmy Award nomination for "Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Daytime Drama Series." Carlson is celebrated for portraying strong female characters, with notable roles including Alex Taylor in Third Watch, Maggie Pistone in Falcone, Katie Owen opposite Tom Berenger in Peacemakers, and Linda Reagan in Blue Bloods.

Currently, Amy Carlson makes her home in New York City with her husband, Syd Butler, who is the bassist for the band Les Savy Fav. She is also involved in the independent music scene, co-owning the record label "Frenchkiss Records." Carlson continues to nurture her writing talents and actively seeks out diverse and compelling roles within the film industry.