Ashly Burch: From YouTube Shenanigans to Gaming Royalty
Once upon a time in the sun-soaked city of Phoenix, Arizona, a young girl named Ashly Burch was born on June 19, 1990. Little did the world know that this pint-sized dynamo would grow up to voice some of the most iconic characters in video games and animation. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves; every hero has an origin story.
The Genesis of Geekdom
Ashly’s love affair with video games began early, thanks in part to her older brother, Anthony. The sibling duo would later become the dynamic force behind the popular web series Hey Ash, Whatcha Playin’?, where they combined humor, gaming, and a healthy dose of sibling rivalry. This quirky series not only showcased their comedic chops but also served as a springboard for Ashly’s burgeoning career in entertainment.
From Web Series to Voice Acting Stardom
While many know Ashly as the voice of Tiny Tina in the Borderlands series, her journey into voice acting was as unpredictable as a loot drop in Pandora. Her brother, Anthony, was a writer for Borderlands 2 and suggested she audition for the role of Tiny Tina. Ashly nailed the audition, bringing to life the explosive-loving, fast-talking character that fans adore. This breakout role opened the floodgates to a plethora of opportunities in the gaming world.
The Many Voices of Ashly Burch
Ashly’s vocal versatility is nothing short of impressive. She’s breathed life into a diverse array of characters, including:
- Aloy in Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West: The fierce, red-haired protagonist navigating a post-apocalyptic world overrun by robotic creatures.
- Chloe Price in the Life Is Strange series: The rebellious blue-haired teen with a penchant for trouble and a heart of gold.
- Miss Pauling in Team Fortress 2: The ever-efficient assistant to the Administrator, juggling mercenaries and mayhem with aplomb.
- Ray in Fortnite: Save the World: The upbeat and quirky robot guide helping players fend off husks and save survivors.
- Mel in The Last of Us Part II: A compassionate and skilled medic navigating a world torn apart by infection and conflict.
Her ability to embody such a wide range of personalities has made her a sought-after talent in the industry.
Beyond the Microphone: Writing and Acting
Ashly’s talents aren’t confined to the recording booth. She’s also made significant contributions as a writer and actress. She served as a writer on the acclaimed animated series Adventure Time, co-writing episodes like “The Hall of Egress” and “Islands Part 4: Imaginary Resources,” the latter of which won a Primetime Emmy Award. Her knack for storytelling and character development shines through in her writing, adding depth and nuance to the narratives she helps craft.
In front of the camera, Ashly portrays Rachel on the Apple TV+ series Mythic Quest, a comedy that delves into the behind-the-scenes antics of a video game development studio. Her performance adds a layer of authenticity to the show’s depiction of the gaming industry, drawing from her real-life experiences.
Ashly’s Animated Adventures
Animation enthusiasts will recognize Ashly’s voice in several beloved series. She’s voiced:
- Enid Mettle in OK K.O.! Let’s Be Heroes: The cool and collected ninja-in-training working at Gar’s Hero Supply & Bodega.
- Molly McGee in The Ghost and Molly McGee: The optimistic and lively girl who befriends a grumpy ghost named Scratch.
- Ash Graven in Final Space: The mysterious and powerful being with a complex past and a key role in the crew’s adventures.
- Sasha Braus in the English dub of Attack on Titan: The food-loving, skilled soldier known for her agility and marksmanship.
Her dynamic performances have endeared her to audiences across various age groups and genres.
Accolades and Achievements
Ashly’s exceptional work has not gone unnoticed. She’s received several awards and nominations, including:
- Golden Joystick Award for Best Performance in 2015 for her role as Chloe Price in Life Is Strange.
- Golden Joystick Award for Best Gaming Performance in 2017 for her portrayal of Aloy in Horizon Zero Dawn.
- BAFTA Games Award Nomination for Performer in 2018 for her role as Aloy.
These accolades underscore her talent and dedication to her craft.
Advocacy and Personal Insights
Beyond her professional endeavors, Ashly is an advocate for mental health awareness. She has openly discussed her experiences with anxiety and the importance of seeking help, aiming to destigmatize mental health issues within the gaming community and beyond.
In interviews, Ashly often credits her diverse heritage—her mother is of Thai descent—for enriching her perspective and influencing her approach to storytelling. She embraces her multicultural background, which adds depth to the characters she portrays and the narratives she helps shape.
The Future: More Voices, More Stories
As the gaming and entertainment industries continue to evolve, one thing is certain: Ashly Burch will remain a prominent and influential figure. With upcoming projects and potential new characters on the horizon, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in her already impressive career.
For a comprehensive look at Ashly’s work, you can visit her IMDb page.
Be sure to read "SHOCKING: D.C. Douglas Exposes Truth About 101 Voice Actors!"
