I love having a younger man, says Emmerdale’s Amy Walsh as she talks whirlwind romance, kids & lunch with acting royalty

Emmerdale Star Reflects On Love And Parenthood

As she approaches her 40th birthday, Amy Walsh, the beloved actress known for her role as Tracy Robinson in Emmerdale, is embracing life with an energy that defies her years. The actress attributes much of her vitality to her husband, Toby-Alexander Smith, 35, an ex-EastEnders actor, whose presence she describes as a key factor in keeping her young at heart. Married in 2023, the couple’s love story began serendipitously in 2019 when they met in the audience of Strictly Come Dancing, and their whirlwind romance has already seen the arrival of two daughters, Bonnie, four, and Nell, born in March.

Amy reflects on her relationship with a playful perspective, stating, “Age is only a number. I’ve got a toyboy as well. You’re only as young as the man you feel. That is what keeps me young.” Balancing family life with a high-profile acting career, she acknowledges the challenges but embraces the “wildness” that comes with raising two children while staying active in the entertainment industry.

Career Milestones And Maternity Leave

Currently on maternity leave from Emmerdale, Amy’s character Tracy Robinson was recently written out temporarily following the on-screen death of her husband, Nate. Outside of the Dales, Amy has managed the dual demands of pregnancy and parenting while maintaining a vibrant professional life. She credits careful planning and flexibility with keeping her career on track, noting that remaining with the ITV soap is ideal for her current family setup. “To be honest, it’s the perfect job for me right now with children and being based in the right place,” she explained, adding that she would consider other projects but is content avoiding the glitz and grind of Hollywood.

Her career journey has been marked by early success, with a breakout role in Hollyoaks Later in 2011, and she has continued to develop her craft both on screen and off. While her family keeps her grounded, Amy’s enthusiasm for acting remains undiminished, even as she balances motherhood and the pressures of public life.

Family Life And Parenthood

Family plays a central role in Amy’s life. Daughter Bonnie, already showing a flair for musical theatre, has inherited her parents’ artistic energy. Amy observes that while Bonnie is not “precocious,” she is remarkably theatrical and engaged with performing arts, drawing on both Amy and Toby’s musical and acting backgrounds. Amy emphasizes the importance of allowing her children to explore their interests without pressure, stating, “I would always support them to do whatever they wanted to do.”

Adding to her family connections, Amy’s elder sister, Kimberley Walsh, famously rose to stardom with Girls Aloud in the 2000s. This musical lineage has provided Bonnie with a direct link to pop culture, as she now enthusiastically recognizes her aunt’s performances. Amy recounts taking Bonnie to a Girls Aloud tour, noting how her daughter now appreciates the experience in ways she couldn’t as a toddler.

Amy also shares fond memories of her own youth, attending concerts with her sister and following the band around, experiences she describes as “magical” and nostalgic, highlighting the enduring impact of music and performance in her life.

Marriage, Love, And Partnership

Amy and Toby’s partnership has flourished despite the demands of acting careers and parenting. Their relationship, forged in part by the Covid lockdown when they moved in together, accelerated their understanding of one another, helping them navigate long-distance dating and rapidly changing life circumstances. The actress praises the serendipity of their union, calling it “the best version of serendipity,” and notes how their shared experiences have solidified their bond.

Looking ahead, the couple is open to the possibility of expanding their family further. Amy, one of four siblings herself, admits she has always envisioned a large family. “I’d never say no,” she notes, though she acknowledges that practical considerations may influence Toby’s perspective. Despite the uncertainties, they remain grateful for the children they have and the life they are building together in Leeds.

Balancing Career And Parenthood

While managing her family, Amy continues to stay connected with her profession. She is candid about the realities of parenting and the lack of time for personal pampering. “I’m very unkempt because I’m just looking after babies,” she says, noting that beauty routines, hair dye, and skincare have taken a backseat. Despite the absence of luxuries like facials or Botox, she embraces her current stage of life with pragmatism and humor.

Amy’s continued presence on Emmerdale allows her to maintain career momentum while remaining geographically and emotionally available to her family. She stresses that the balance works well for her and that the combination of motherhood and acting has enriched her life rather than limited it.

Friendships And Industry Bonds

Beyond her immediate family, Amy maintains close relationships with fellow actors and industry colleagues. She speaks warmly about former Emmerdale co-star Adam Thomas, whose experience on I’m A Celebrity All Stars she followed with concern, demonstrating her empathy and loyalty to peers. Amy’s network also includes high-profile encounters, such as the memorable meeting between Toby and Dame Joan Collins on set during the filming of A Murder Between Friends. Amy recalls the delight of seeing her daughter interact with the legendary actress, highlighting the unique intersections between her professional and personal life.

As Amy approaches 40, she does so with a remarkable blend of realism, humor, and gratitude. Her life story reflects the joys and challenges of balancing career, parenthood, and personal ambition. With two young children, a successful marriage, and a thriving acting career, Amy’s journey continues to resonate with fans who admire her resilience, warmth, and dedication. She remains open to opportunities but prioritizes family and home life, embodying the modern working parent navigating the demands of the entertainment industry.

Amy Walsh continues to inspire with her candid reflections, offering a glimpse into the life of a soap star who has seamlessly integrated professional success with personal fulfillment. Her story is a testament to love, family, and finding joy amidst life’s beautiful chaos.