For so many years now, fans have watched Amy Fleming’s story unfold on Heartland—and they’ve grown alongside the actress behind her, Amber Marshall. At 35, she’s spent more than half her life playing Amy, filming over 250 episodes and counting. Season 17 is already underway in Alberta, Canada, where the Bartlett-Fleming family and their horses still feel like home.
The series, inspired by a line of bestselling books, follows life on a ranch surrounded by open fields, big skies, and a deep connection to horses. It’s a story that mirrors much of Amber’s own life in ways she never expected.
Her Real-Life Love for Horses
Amy loves her life surrounded by horses and the countryside—but it hasn’t always been easy. Like her character, Amber has faced her share of loss. One of the show’s stars, Robert Cormier—who played Finn, Amy’s gentle love interest—sadly passed away last September.
Even after all these years, Heartland keeps finding new fans. It’s now among the top five most-streamed shows in the U.S., with recent seasons available on UP Faith & Family. During a short break from filming, Amber opened up about the show’s long run, the bond she shares with her castmates, and where Amy’s story might head next,
Life on Set: A Real Family
When asked what the mood has been like while filming Season 17, Amber can’t help but smile.
“We’ve really become a family,” she says. “It’s funny—we play one on TV, but it’s true off-screen too. We’ve been through so much together.”
She loves that the show’s longevity gives its characters history—something fans can feel in every small moment.
“You can’t fake that kind of connection. We’ve all grown up together.”
Growing Up with Amy
Amber says she’s been lucky to live with Amy’s story for so long.
“It’s rare to grow up with a character,” she reflects. “Amy’s been part of my life for so many years that sometimes our stories overlap.”
Some of those overlaps have even made it into the show.
“When I got married, our showrunner came to the wedding. Later, I saw echoes of it in Amy’s own storyline. Those personal touches make it feel real.”
Amy’s daughter Lyndy, played by twin sisters Ruby and Emmanuella Spencer, is also starting to come into her own.
“They’re amazing little girls,” Amber says proudly. “They love the horses and bring such natural energy to every scene.”
Facing Loss Together
When Robert Cormier passed away last September, the loss left everyone shaken—cast, crew, and fans alike.
“It was devastating,” Amber says quietly. “Moments like that make you realize how unpredictable life can be. Robert was open, honest, and so much fun to work with. Losing him brought all of us even closer.”
Many fans had been rooting for Amy and Finn’s growing connection. Season 16, now streaming on UP Faith & Family, gave Amy space to heal after losing Ty and slowly start opening her heart again.
Is There a Future for Amy and Sam?
Fans are already wondering if Sam Langston could become more than just a friend. Amber keeps things playful.
“It’s interesting when someone shows up in your life and offers kindness and support,” she teases. “Sometimes you see them as a neighbor, sometimes maybe something more. Life has a funny way of surprising you.”
Whether or not romance is in Amy’s future, Amber is simply grateful for the chance to keep filming in Alberta’s beautiful landscapes.
“Some days are long, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. You look around at those hills and horses—it’s beautiful.”
She believes the show’s heart is what keeps it going.
“Families tell us they watch Heartland together—kids, parents, grandparents. It’s rare now to find something everyone enjoys.”
Heartland is still a place where healing, family, and kindness matter in a world that often feels separate. Amber Marshall is happy to be a part of that.
Find out more about Amber Marshall’s time with Heartland here.