Amber Benson’s AMA on Reddit

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I am Amber Benson, actor/writer/goofball/Lesbian witch from BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER

Let’s see… my name is Amber Benson, haha! And I am a maker of things. Which means that I’m always tap-dancing to make my rent. I was an actor in my previous life, but now I direct and write films, and write novels. I would love to chat with you about anything your heart desires, but i especially want to talk about my new book, called The Witches of Echo Park.

Victoria’s helping me get started. AMA!

theoremofgoats: I am ecstatic that one of my favorite actresses is also a wonderful writer, and as an aspiring author myself, I must ask: What advice would you give as far as the writing process goes?

IamAmberBenson: Just sit down and put words on the page. Or, more succinctly: Just write. It sounds trite, but the more you force yourself to the this, the better your writing will get.

BradAusrotas: Hi Amber! This question is (totally) biased, but what’s your favourite thing about attending LeakyCon/GeekyCon?

IamAmberBenson: The vibe. It just has such a good feeling.

flomporiginal: Hi Amber! You said you were looking for oddball questions? I’ll give it a whirl and wish you much success on the release of “The Witches of Echo Park”.

  1. How old were you when you understood that you share Elvis Presley’s birthday and in what way (if any) did that fact influence you then and throughout your life?
  2. And a tangent about guilty pleasures – What is your technique/recipe for greasy fried chicken, daughter of the South? 😉

Hopefully not so oddball questions…

  1. Bravo to you and Russell Brown for the fantastic rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “My Old Man” that you sang for Worldbuilders (Heifer campaign). Would you share what captivated you about the song’s lyrics/arrangement the first time you heard it?
  2. What application(s) do you use on your Macbook to write your novels?

IamAmberBenson:

  1. I was like 8 when I realized that Elvis, Bowie, and Stephen Hawking were birthday mates. I got a kick ass birthday crew! Not sure how it influenced me, other than I got to brag about them.
  2. I make lame fried chicken. Like the put bread crumbs in a bag and shake and bake – it’s slightly embarrassing.
  3. I adore Joni. One of my all time favs. And Russell was the best for doing the song with me. Joni’s voice made me realize that my voice was okay. She does the sweeping back and forths between head voice and chest voice that I love.
  4. How do you know I use a macbook 😉 I might be a lenovo girl. You don’t know. Actually, I am a mac girl. An apple whore really. I use microsoft word.

silverdolphin18:Hi, Amber! I am a huge fan of yours and Tara has always been my favourite character from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Thank you for doing this AMA!

What did you enjoy the most or what was most rewarding about playing the character of Tara?

Thank you again!

IamAmberBenson: The most rewarding thing about playing Tara was that the relationship on Buffy between her and Willow helped kick open the door for more amazing LGBTQ characters on TV. We were so blessed to walk in their shoes and play those ladies. It’s one of the things I am most proud of in my life.

HastagGamerGirl: Hey Amber!

Not sure I should tag spoilers… but the show has been over for a while now, so: how did you react when you learned of Tara’s fate?

IamAmberBenson: Well, Joss took me aside during filming for the Season 5 finale and told me he had ‘exciting’ news. Which was that Tara was gonna die. I was like: “Oh, wow, that’s…uh, great…”
Inside I was like: NOOOOOOOOOOO!

lucyness: what do you find more enjoyable acting or directing?

IamAmberBenson: Directing. You can use all the stuff you know when you direct. Every skill you have in your arsenal is needed. Although, voice acting comes a close second. You can do it in your pjs! Just did a voice )and I sing in it, too) for a pilot for Cartoon Network called Back To Backspace – and that was SO MUCH FUN! It even got nominated for an Annie! So go vote for it!!

ak_doug Hello, I really enjoyed Lovers, Liars and Lunatics, and own a copy of Drones (it speaks to me, I work in a big poor oganization).
Are you planning on making more movies?

IamAmberBenson: YAY!!! So glad you liked them!! DRONES is just…I love that movie.

I am working on a short now called SHEVENGE. There’s actually an indiegogo for it and you can see a little of them film: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/shevenge

OM_ME_A_NICE_THING: Hi Amber,

Big BtVS fan here. I often give credit to Buffy as one of the foundations of how strong I am after growing up as a superfan of the show, and I still watch it consistently, at least every episode throughout the year. Thanks for being a part of a really special TV show.

My question is: what is your favorite memory on set?

Thanks for all you do! I got your first book written with Christopher Golden (who I am a huge fan of) and I loved it.

IamAmberBenson: My fav memory is embarrassing myself in the musical by running into a pole during Sarah’s song 🙂
So glad you enjoyed Ghosts of the Albion!! Chris and his family are my east coast family!

fraac: How weird is it being a grownup?

IamAmberBenson: Who the heck says I’m a grownup? Who’s been spreading lies! I want names, people! Names! J/K – I guess if being a grownup means I’m living on my own and paying taxes then it’s kinda okay 🙂

PossesiveApostrophe: Hi Amber! A morbid curiosity of mine… if you could choose your method of death, what would it be?

IamAmberBenson: Going to sleep and not waking up.

MsJessD4: Hi Amber, thanks for doing this Q&A! Here’s my question, how would you describe The Witches of Echo Park in 3 words?

IamAmberBenson: Naughty, Smart, Ladies

Seraph_Grymm: How hard was it to transition from acting to writing? Did your experience acting and working with onset writers inspire your writing career, or have you always enjoyed the art?!

IamAmberBenson: I have always written. Mostly bad gothic poetry and weirdo absurdist plays. But I think everyone you work with inspires you – even the awful people because they inspire you to be successful and then yell back at them: Suck it!

Because I’ve always written, it wasn’t really a transition, more of a slow glide over to writing prose.

lula2488: Follow-up question: Have you considered working with Seraph_Grymm?

IamAmberBenson: Never say never! Or was that the Goonies never say die?

Gecoma: Hi Amber welcome to reddit! I recently finished Among the Ghosts & loved it. Was also a big Tara Buffy-TVS fan back in the day.

My question is what is your opinion on Fanfiction? About either your books or any piece of entertainment?

Have you ever read any & If so did you find any you enjoyed?

Hope you enjoy the AMA 😀

IamAmberBenson: I think fanfiction is great. It’s a great way to make yourself sit down and write! I love peeps who write fanfiction about my stuff – makes me very happy.
I don’t read too much fanfic – esp about Buffy. I might blush.

jennyyangtv: What inspired the world /story behind The Witches of Echo Park?
Hi Amber!

IamAmberBenson: My neighborhood, Echo park, is the inspiration for the book, and the women who are my friends in my writing group which is called “The Shamers” (we shame each other into writing) and my neighborhood friends that are in a group called “The AHLA” (Angeleno Heights Ladies Association)…

Finesse117: Hello! oddball me is curious to know: what is your most common typo> Or favorite word to type? Thanks!

IamAmberBenson: fav word to type is Slattern!

theArnoldFans1: Do you work out and excercise? Do you lift? Does pumping iron make you complete? Or what ways do you try to stay healthy and fit?

IamAmberBenson: I walk. There are stairs in my hood and I walk them as much as I can.

RuddVP: Will you be doing any book signings for The Witches of Echo Park?

IamAmberBenson: YES: If you go to my tumblr http://thewitchesofechopark.tumblr.com/ it’s all there.

BobCoupee: So here are my attempt at some oddball questions:

1)Given that I have only read the first Reaper-Jones novel, who would win in a fight between a giant turtle and Calliope?

2)If you woke tomorrow and found you were now Bruce Willis, what’s the first thing you would do?

Thanks.

IamAmberBenson: Giant turtle.
It’s like the Metamorphosis – only without cockroach legs. I’d go get back together with Demi Moore.

4469: What does Alyson Hannigan smell like?

IamAmberBenson: Honeysuckle and happiness.

AndoDaan: I really liked Drones, enjoying your work with Angela Bettis (hey, you both have the same initials). I think I even saw a music video you directed with her hands in it. So I was wondering if you two plan on collaborating again?

IamAmberBenson: Totally did a video for Califone with Ang! Ang is one of my closest friends. She’s the best of the best. I want to work with her in everything I do. She is such a muse for me!

Illyriana: Who were you closest to in Buffy?

IamAmberBenson: Probably the writers. I spent a lot of time upstairs in the production office harassoing them. Writers are the bestest.

stitchinhawIi: Hi Amber would you ever consider a signing career?? Your voice is beautiful.

IamAmberBenson: If I wrote my own songs, I would. But I don’t play an instrument.

Mist3rA: If you were a pizza, what kind of toppings would you have?

IamAmberBenson: Oh, mushrooms and black olives! The Mushrooms and Black Olives special.

Mist3rA: How wold you survive a zombie apocalypse?

IamAmberBenson: I wouldn’t.

strawberryf1elds: You are absolutely brilliant in all of your projects! In keeping with your request for oddball questions, I would like to know: would you rather live in the Buffy universe or the universe you created in “The Witches of Echo Park”? (Also, what is James Marsters like to work with??)

IamAmberBenson: James is a dollface. Adore that guy. Such a consummate professional. And tres sexy!
I would live in the witches world. It’s just magic to me.

Mist3rA: What TV show do you secretly enjoy?

IamAmberBenson: I guess, for me, it’s probably FORENSIC FILES

Callsign_Fennek: If your plane crashed on a desert island and you were the only survivor, how would you survive and finally escape?

IamAmberBenson: I would eat a lot of coconuts. And then I would take all the coconut husks, and burn them to make smoke signals to spell SOS to attract passing boats, who would then save me, and then I would marry the crown prince of Oceania.

AmberAddict: Who is your favourite character from your new book The Witches of Echo Park?

IamAmberBenson: Eleanora.

Mist3rA: If you don’t know the words to a song, do you improvise?

IamAmberBenson: I make a mess of lyrics all the time. I’m the jerk who babbles made up stuff. Like: We don’t need another hero becaise – Peter, peter pumpkin eater, had a wife and couldn’t feed her.

Bdag: Is there any bad blood between you and Seth Green?

IamAmberBenson: I hate him so much. He is the worst. I hate Seth Green. JUST KIDDING. I love him. He is truly the funniest human being I’ve ever known, and I mean that from the heart.

Mist3rA: What is your favourite condiment?

IamAmberBenson: Honey mustard.

Charles_Harker: Who would make a better dominatrix, Sarah or Eliza?

IamAmberBenson: Oh, man, that’s a tough one. LOVE both those ladies and if you have to be tied up, who better? But I’m gonna go with Eliza. She’s a tough Boston girl. I bet she could wing it and do a great job with leather and a whip and chains and handcuffs…ok, gonna stop now. This is getting weird.

Illyriana: What are your favorite TV shows of 2014?

IamAmberBenson: OUTLANDER! yes, yes!

Nuddg: When I was homeless on the streets of Hollywood, I used to steal books because one: I had no money to buy them, and two: the only times I felt safe was when I was reading them. I have since tried throughout my life to atone for my thievery. Have you ever stolen anything?

IamAmberBenson: I get too nervous to steal, but I lie sometimes. That’s the bad thing I do and I feel terribly guilty about. And don’t feel bad about the books. Books are magic and you needed them.

almostdinner: I live in Echo Park. Do you, too? How much or in what ways did the neighborhood influence your writing?

IamAmberBenson: The east side of LA is my hood. The book is mash note to the neighborhood I love most. I walk the stairs a lot. Find the magic swing. It’s up off echo park ave.

abcdefghijklmnopq339: Hello Miss Benson, I’m Blaine Gibson. Are you Irish or Italian?

IamAmberBenson: Mutt jew from Alabama with a little Irish in there.

LordFluffy: Any musical projects on the horizon for you? What was doing the Rocky Horror tribute like for you?

IamAmberBenson: No musical stuff on the horizon. Rocky Horror was awesome. I got to see Anthony wearing his own heels & fishnets doing Frank-n-furter. It was a blast. And I also embarrassed the hell out of myself because I was in my underwear.

Charles_Harker: What is going on with “Shevenge”? How is the “Witches of Echo Park” coming? What kind of cookie are best at baking?

IamAmberBenson: I’m best at making drop cookies – anything you mix up and drop on a plate with a spoon, that’s what I’m best at. There’s an indieGogo for Shevenge going on now (https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/shevenge), it’s a short I directed starring 3 ladies, we had a full-on female crew (we had some dudes, but it’s a lady project). And “Witches of Echo Park” is DONE and coming out tomorrow in local bookstores!

AmberAddict: Amber if you could direct and cast a film version of the Witches of Echo Park which actors would you choose?

IamAmberBenson: Angela Bettis and Aubrey Plaza for starters…

PM_ME-UR_NYLONS_GIRL: Are you wearing nylons?

IamAmberBenson: NO. Flannel pajamas

seredar: Hey Amber,

I wanted to thank you for your portrayal of Tara on Buffy the Vampire Slayer – even now with as much representation as there is of LGBT characters on TV the relationship between you and Willow still seems one of the most refreshing and ordinary. As a male who has been struggling with coming out for the past few years it has been fantastic to see such nicely rounded characters who’s sole purpose isn’t to fill a quota.

How do you feel knowing that you were part of such an important storyline that helped change the face of LGBT representation on TV?

On another note I cannot wait to read your new book 🙂 thank you for your time!

IamAmberBenson: I feel very blessed to have played Tara on Buffy. It wasn’t about gratuitous making-out scenes. It was about 2 people who just happened to be of the same gender falling in love. Joss wrote real characters. He wasn’t trying to fill quotas. He was trying to create 2 people who just happened to be gay.

rywon: Hello Amber,

As a young film student/aspiring director/closet writer – my question is what drew you to move from acting in front of the camera to behind it, or were you always planning on directing/writing your own things? Do you have any words of wisdom for getting your material seen?

IamAmberBenson: I wanted to be in control of my own destiny – so that meant I had to create my own content. That’s why I started making my own stuff. You are lucky. You are starting out in the digital age where the internet allows a zillion people to see what you put out there.Just make stuff and put it up online. That’s my advice.

buffmaster: What was your least favorite Christmas gift this year?

IamAmberBenson: I ignored the holidays this year.

Ekeebler: Hi, Amber — really enjoyed your performance in Latter Days. Your character was a needed pinch of salt among all that sweetness. Any good Jacqueline Bisset stories.

isarealboy13:

  1. Would you rather have no fingers or fingers that were constantly covered in Cheeto dust?
  2. Also, what would it take for you to follow my friend on Twitter and call him a nickname that I ask you to call him? ;p

IamAmberBenson:

  1. Fingers that are constantly covered in Cheeto dust.
  2. I try to only follow people I know. But if said person donated $10,000 to Doctors without Borders, I would totally follow their friend and give them that nickname.

Angrant96: Hi! How much influence do you think Buffy’s popularity had in entertainment following it’s conclusion.

IamAmberBenson: I think Buffy never dies. It goes on and on. And new people find it everyday. I don’t think we can even begin to quantify the effect it had on popular culture.

GingerNinjaAud: Hey Amber! Is there anything (type of character, genre of book, crazy plotline etc.) you haven’t written yet but really want to?
P.S. Really excited to start reading Witches of Echo Park tomorrow!

IamAmberBenson: Aw, excited for you to read, the book! I hope you like it. If you don’t, don’t tell me.
And serial killer stuff is what I’m obsessed with at the moment. I want to write about serial killers.

DEzo: What was it like working on the movie Don’s Plum.. and with DiCaprio before he was the big superstar he is now toady? Why did inmost of the cast not want the movie to be shown in Canada and the States?

IamAmberBenson: I was fine with it being shown anywhere/everywhere – but there was a legal battle that I had no part in. I think it was because the movie was all improv and some people thought it made them look bad… I just thought it was funny.

AmberAddict: Amber if you were a super hero what would your superpower be?

IamAmberBenson: The ability to always find warm blankets.

Illyriana: If you were to pitch a show to HBO what kind of show would it be?

IamAmberBenson: Serial killer.

cocacola222:What has been your strangest fan encounter?

IamAmberBenson: The young woman who proposed to me, she got down on one knee at San Diego Comic-Con, took out a ring box with a beautiful diamond ring. Asked for my hand in marriage.
Goddamnit, I should’ve said yes.

Aesindriell: oddball Can you think up a question for men and then answer that? I’m so starstruck I’m drawing a blank.
(But hey, at least I’m not exploding my own mocha all over myself like that one time in LA Barnes & Nobles Starbucks.)

IamAmberBenson: Hahahaha! I had some exploded mocha action myself kinda recently.

srauf456: What is pure happiness for you?

IamAmberBenson: Alone: Getting in bed with a good book and something hot ( get your mind out of the gutter!! I meant of the beverage variety!)

With someone else: Sitting on the couch, cuddling, and watching Twin Peaks. Sparkling water and cheese puffs included.

toniwiltshireHello Stranger! Hope everything is good with you, and that your holiday was awesome! 😀

Witches of Echo Park related questions: 1. Weirdest thing you had to research and then hoped no-one checks your internet history? 2. Will there be more of Lizbeth’s background story in the second book? She’s my fave, I think.

Oddball question: If Jarvis was YOUR personal advisor, what complaints/sassy comments would you most frequently receive from him?

Talk soon, I hope!

Toni (:

IamAmberBenson: Hi Toni!!

  1. Weirdest thing I had to research was whether I could name a character Weir or not. If there were any other Weir’s out there.
  2. Yes, more Lizbeth to come!
  3. Talk to the hand.

Novalee11: What do you drink when you write?

IamAmberBenson: Coffee if I’m being good. Whiskey if I am not.

misskittyfantastico: Hi Amber! We met briefly at NYCC when you signed a copy of The Witches of Echo Park for me, just wanted to say a belated thank you for making my day 🙂 I loved the book!!

Two questions: 1. What is the hardest part of the writing process for you, and how do you approach it? 2. What’s in your Netflix queue right now?

IamAmberBenson: So glad you liked the book!

  1. Making myself sit down and do it.
  2. Poirot & Murdoch Mysteries. And I love ACORN TV better than netflix right now.

AmberAddict: Not sure if this counts as oddball at all but what’s your favourite candy?

IamAmberBenson: Butterfinger.

FaithsPure: What’s your favourite tabletop game?

IamAmberBenson: I like scrabble, but I also really enjoyed playing GLOOM on Tabletop.

emdesch: Hey Amber! Tara was one of my favorites on Buffy – you played her so well. Thanks for doing this!
Which scene was your favorite (or least favorite) to film?

IamAmberBenson: The whole Buffy ep. THE BODY, it was gut wrenching.

srauf456: I have always had trouble moving on and acting normal after watching Tara and Joyce’s deaths. Having said that, you seem like an awesome, normal girl.

My question: Wizards & Witches vs. Vampires… who would win if a war broke out?

IamAmberBenson: Wizards and Witches.

NorbitGorbit: did you write your book in final draft and save it as screenplay format in case of movie option?

IamAmberBenson: No I did not. I wrote it in Microsoft Word. But that is not a bad idea, what you suggested.

Mist3rA: What are some of your favourite books, graphic novels and/or comic books?

IamAmberBenson:“The Secret Hostory” and “Blankets.”

Novalee11: Did you ever accidentally punch anyone in the face?

IamAmberBenson: I must have… but I can’t remember. Does anyone remember me punching them in the face? Please chime in.

buffantor: Do you consider yourself a grammar nazi?

IamAmberBenson: Not at all. More like a grammar troglodyte.

GePop: Happy Monday, Amber (and Happy Birthday, too!) So, what’s on your reading table right now?

IamAmberBenson: Murakami – 1?84

roku9413: Hey amber: Happy you’re here! You still in contact with the whole Buffy cast?

IamAmberBenson: I see Emma quite frequently, and the trio.

Mutt1223: What is your favorite flavor of ice-cream?

IamAmberBenson: Chocolate & peanut butter from Baskin-Robbins

srauf456: What is your typical Sunday like?

IamAmberBenson: I try not to do anything. Just lay around and be all fat and asassy eating pasta with nutritional yeast on it and watching mystery tv shows.

riqk: Hi, Amber! I have a few questions:

  1. I know you wrote a couple of the Buffy comics focusing on Willow and Tara, but I was wondering if there are any plans for you to come back to write some more akin to what Nick Brendon is doing?
  2. If you could work with any one person from Buffy again (and I mean anyone, not just the actors), who would it be?
  3. Also, I met you at DragonCon a couple years ago, any chance you might be coming back in the future?
  4. BONUS QUESTION! Over at /r/Buffy, there’s a thread going on discussing everyone’s reaction to Dawn being added to the show. What were the opinions of the cast to Buffy getting a sister? Was everyone told why/how she was there, or only certain people knew?
  5. Bonus DragonCon picture: http://i.imgur.com/LYDzS.jpg

IamAmberBenson: I would LOVE to come back for more work on Buffy. I think that’s really up to other people, though.
Probably Tim Minear.
YES! I will be teaching an acting workshop at Dragoncon this year.
No one really knew what the deal was, we were just happy to have Michelle. She was a breath of fresh air, She was a fan, she loved the show, and we all adored her, even if we didn’t know why she was there.

mzl: In a world without culture (books, plays, art, music, etc), what do you think would be your profession?

IamAmberBenson: Barista

HeartlessMario: Do you write on envelopes a lot?

IamAmberBenson: HAHA! Yes I do. I mnake a lot of lists.

threemo: Do you have any feelings about not getting a main title credit in Buffy until the episode your character dies?

IamAmberBenson: Not really? I wanted the freedon to do other projects, and not being a regular afforded that to me.

HenarT: Hello Amber! You are great in lots of disciplines, but, what’s left for you to be done? What’s your next dream to come true?

IamAmberBenson: Buy a little house in the Echo Park hills and just write literature.

WilliamMcCartney: Hey, I’ll be at your signing in Burbank this week! Can I get a picture with ya?

IamAmberBenson: Of course!

redalader: If you could be one thing from Buffy (witch/slayer/vampire) what would you be? 🙂 PS Your voice/acting/writing is amazing.

IamAmberBenson: I’d be Spike

charlesbabb: Have you thought about making animated or series?

IamAmberBenson: I just did a voice for an animated pilot for Cartoon Network called “Back to Backspace” – it was nominated for an Annie!

AmberAddict: Amber I know you are a fan of murder mysteries I am too will you open a detective agency with me? oddball question.

IamAmberBenson: Yes, of course, 100%

Cheatahh: If there was anyone you could meet from the past who would it be and why?

IamAmberBenson: Fyodor Dostoyesvsky. I wanna get some gambling trciks from him.

ljknblknm: Was it challenging to sing the lyric. ‘Spread beneath my willow tree’ directory to Ms. Hannigan’s face?

IamAmberBenson: Nope. I love sexual innuendo.

LesliC32: How did you get started and how long did it take you to get to where you are? I admire your work!!

IamAmberBenson: I’ve been doing this since I was 13 and I;m gonna be 38 in like three days. So whatever that is…that’s how long. Damn, that is a long time! 🙂

I started out in Soderbergh’s KING OF THE HILL – auditioned for it – t as my first real gig. It’s how I got Taft-Hartley’d.

AngelKnives: Do you play video games and if so which are your favourites?

IamAmberBenson: PORTAL and PORTAL 2.

ominousbradyo: You have an incredibly beautiful singing voice. Would you please publish a lullaby album? My doc says I need to calm down my blood pressure. I’m certain you would fix it.

IamAmberBenson: I can totally do that for you. Working on it right now. “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” would be the single.

ThoseDarnNeighbors: Hi Amber – what is your personal connection to Echo Park and which place has the best tacos? And why did you choose the location for your book? That was unexpected.

IamAmberBenson: I love Guisato’s – the sampler platter is to die for. Except I get a quesadilla instead of the chicarones. Good luck with that! And I chose it because I live there, and it’s a love note to this neighborhood. I love it.

CesXVI: Are you a real witch? Because you are magic?

IamAmberBenson: Awww. I’m not a real witch, but I do have a little magic inside of me.

Chris3235: Do you still talk to the buffy crew now? If so who do you see the most?

IamAmberBenson: Adam Busch.

PoweredBySun: Would you rather fight one Buffy sized duck or one hundred duck sized Buffys?

IamAmberBenson: One big Buffy duck.

hounsthegrif: Ever danced with the devil in the pale moonlight?

IamAmberBenson: No, but sounds bloody interesting.

AmberAddict: Amber I also pre ordered the audio book version of The Witches of Echo Park which you’ve narrated who was the hardest character to voice?

IamAmberBenson: The hardest character to voice was Eleanora. But the hardest part of doing the audiobook was having to read the sex scenes out loud. So embarrassing.

Spookier_than-youYour Deaths Daughter series is great. Are you planning to continue with them?

IamAmbnerBenson: There are only going to be 5 books in the series. I hit the wall. Couldn’t do first person narrative anymore. I needed a break.

DamnJavi: How does it feel knowing that a piece of your work is forever stamped into our history?

IAmAmberBenson: As long as its not stamped on anybodies ass then I’m happy!

GhotOfWhatsIAName: Hi Amber Benson, it’s my cake day, so please allow me this question about your picture of proof: You have a beautiful name though I think you’re more off white, but why would your envelope write on your backside?

IamAmberBenson: I was in a hurry. I wrote on the back by accident! Happy cake day!!.

ominousbradyo Why hasn’t Joss made you an Avenger yet?

IamAmberBenson HAHAHA! The Avengers cannot hold me.

buffanator: Do you like to answr questions by speaking or writing more?

IamAmberBenson writing.

Olya_z_tennis Good night from Russia, Amber 🙂 In Buffy’s comic book perhaps want to recover Tara!! What do you think about this?

IamAmberBenson I’m always down.

mzl As an oddball question, how long have you ever let your toenails grow? In particular, were they long enough to use as offensive weapons?

IamAmberBenson I have not. But you have just given me a very good idea…

Charles_Harker Do you know Kristi Swanson

IamAmberBensonOnly met her once.

farnez: Hey Amber I have two oddball questions: what’s your least favorite thing about humanity? And how lucky are you and why?

IamAmberBensonI’m like Raskolnikov from CRIME & PUNISHMENT. I love the idea of humanity, but the day-to-day interactions are just too much for me. And I am so fucking lucky. I bitch and moan and groan, but I am a lucky fucking duck.

Vogonvor Hey Amber, big fan of your work as an actor and intrigued you’ve made the jump into writing. What is your all time favorite book?

IamAmberBenson The Idiot

whatwouldbuffydo14 Have you ever been with a woman? (Only asking cause you said you’re not shy!) Tara is up pin the ranks with the best lesbian character Alice on the L word 🙂 xx

IamAmberBenson I have made out with a lot of ladies on TV for money.

Charles_Harker: How was working on Supernatural?

IamAmberBensonThose guys are the best. I had a blast playing with them and they are damn fine… uh, I mean, very talented.

BrandonDrawhorn What is the book about? I am avid reading but selective of my literature intake. What can that book do for my mind body and soul?

IamAmberBensonThe book has atmosphere. It takes you to Echo Park and you get lost there. I need to be immersed. That’s what the book does.

jon_stout: Just out of curiosity… would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? Do you think that you have to be one or the other in order to really “make it” (whatever that means) in the entertainment business?

IamAmberBenson: Introvert AND extrovert – I can be both depending on the situation. I don’t think it’s about that, as far as ‘making it’. What I think you need to make it is perseverance and a thick skin. Cause it’s a tough fucking business and gut-wrenching.

AmberAddict: What’s harder to write a sex scene or a death scene?

IamAmberBenson: A death scene, for me. I love writing sex scenes. They make me laugh.

SisterofRister: t was great to see a shy/socially anxious character on tv with Tara as I could really relate to her as a teenager and she made me feel less alone.

My question is- do you consider yourself shy in real life or are you a very confident person?

IamAmberBenson: I am both. I was super-shy as a kid until I started acting, and then I realized I could wear a mask and be anybody I wanted to be, and when people were judging me, they were judging the character, not me. It frees you up to be extroverted.

tamarzipan: Did you hate Kennedy?

IamAmberBenson:No. But I knew she had her work cut out for her. It’s how it was for me when I took over from Seth.

Faithlessfate: Hey, Amber, just wanted to wish you a happy birthday, and ask you what your next film project will be?

IamAmberBenson: Thank you for the bday wishes! I did a film called Desire Will Set You Free!

yntsky_ninety Have you gotten over being denied a supporting actress Academy Award nomination for your work in “Hollywood, PA”?

IamAmberBenson: NO. Now I’m sobbing. Hate you. Why’d you bring that up?? I was robbed!!

Olya_z_tennis: Miz Amber, what kind of music do you like?

IamAmberBenson: I am eclectic – was just listening to THE OMEN soundtrack AND Father John Misty.

AGallagher410: What’s your favorite ride in Disney?

IamAmberBenson: The Haunted Mansion

slothy_mcgee: If you could break one law and get away with it what would you do?

IamAmberBenson: Go swim in Echo Park lake!

Daltz: Hi! What is your go-to snack?

IamAmberBenson:French fries

gekkevrek123: Have you ever had something with a guy?

IamAmberBenson: What does that mean? Confused. Rephrase the question 🙂

chazmacq: Not quite in the same Elvis camp as yourself as he died on my first birthday. Question – in the event of a zombie apocolypse where is the safest place to live. Castle, island or ewok tree city?

IamAmberBenson: Ewok Tree City, duh

blinkyblonky:You call yourself a goofball – What is the goofiest thing you have ever done?

IamAmberBenson: Do you have like twenty hours..? So much to say on this.

jon_stour: Another quiestion from a fellow Jew — do you still practice? And what sect did you grow up with? (No pressure! I’m a… somewhat less that three-day-a-year Jew myself these days.)

IamAmberBenson: Reform temple in Alabama! Went there when I was growing up. I’m a passover and some high holy days kinda girl.

Kthriller: Hi, Amber! I just listened to your podcast on the Nerdist not too long ago, and fell in love with you all over again! I really enjoyed hearing about all the creative work you’re doing! What inspired your new book, and what kind of research did you do while writing it?

IamAmberBenson: I had a blast on The Nerdist podcast – love me some Matt Mira.

I wanted to write about my lady friends. I wanted to write about women’s relationships with each other (not sexual, or not primarily so) how your lady friends support you and are there for you, no matter what. That was kind of the inspiration.

I did some reading on Wicca – but decided to do my own version of magic.

rule2productions: What famous character from fiction, male or female, from any form of media, would you most like to play?

IamAmberBenson: Joan of Arc! Yeah!

StarbuckPirate: What is your favorite cheese?

IamAmberBenson: A Gouda.

Slater420: Hi Amber, thank you for doing this AmA. You have a beautiful singing voice. Under Your Spell gives me goosebumps. Have you released any albums or thought about it?

IamAmberBenson: I did a little two song cd thing once upon a time. But no albums and no songs. I need to play an instrument so I can write them!

hardspank916: Hi Amber. I have a question.
If I drop everything, quit my job, and come down to see you can I help work on your next film?

IamAmberBenson: Uhm, no projects on the slate right now, so hold on to the day job. But in the future… who’s to say what might happen 🙂

MotherOfRunes: Do you ever write things differently than you otherwise would because you know you’ll probably end up doing the audiobook? Accents, et cetera?

Who will play Calliope and Jarvis in the movie?

Why do birds suddenly appear every time you are near?

IamAmberBenson: Because I am Karen Carpenter. (no, I’m not.)
Jarvis = Ashley Artus and Callie should be.. Eek. I don’t know.

Kalimah18: Rumopr has it that I live down the street from your parents. Do black window shutters ring any bells?

IamAmberBenson: Nope. No bell ringing. And my parents live separately so those black shutters belong to Ashley Benson’s parents. J/K

CiaranIllyria: Is this where I type the thing? I literally just panic signed up after seeing you were doing this! I don’t have time to think of an amazing question, but you rock (duh) and I SCOURED the Internet so I could watch Chance (only to find it easily on YouTube…) and it totally convinced me that someday I could make a good movie, even on a non-existent budget, so thanks for that just as much as Tara!

I suppose I better ask something: what’s your favourite of Joss’s other projects? And are you addicted to Agents of SHIELD with the rest of us?

P.S. You NEED to come to Dublin! Maybe join Nick Brendon at Dublin Comic Con???

IamAmberBenson: I got food poisoning at Clontarf Castle – that’s my only Dublin story.

I really loved Angel. So much talent on that show.

And yay for Chance – so glad you enjoyed it 🙂 And, yes, it should make you totally want to go make your won stuff. You can do it for like no money. go make stuff!!

LFresh2010: Hi Amber! Thanks for doing this AMA. Tara’s death hit me the hardest in the Buffy series. Tara was quiet and reserved, as am I.

A few questions: 1) Did you enjoy going from Tara in the Buffyverse to Lenore in Supernatural? I imagine it would be fun to play a monster that the Scooby gang was best known for taking out, even if they are in different universes.

2) What other projects are you currently working on? Aside from “The Witches of Echo Park”?

IamAmberBenson: I did enjoy hopping from Buffy to Supernatural. I always wanted to have the cool vamp make-up and I got it on Supernatural 🙂

I am in post on a short I directed called Shevenge and I’m writing the sequel to The Witches of Echo Park .

Illyriana: If Tara had lived, what would be of her and Willow’s life together?

IamAmberBenson: They would open an ice cream shop and live happily ever after. In my heart, that’s their future.

chazmacq: What is your favorite accent?

IamAmberBenson: Irish.

Groove_Rob: What’s going on in your life? Do you have a significant other? If no, do you want one? Did you get to spend the holidays with your family?

IamAmberBenson: I am a lone wolf these days, and happily so.
I feel like every day I spend with my family is Christmas Vacation come to life.

eatapenny: Hey Amber!

Huge fan of Buffy (as I imagine a bunch of people here are).

An oddball question is tough, but I guess I’m gonna go with:

Do you ever wonder what it would’ve been like if you guys had done one of those “spells gone wrong” things, and you’d been the Slayer for an episode? If so, how would you have gone about that (like your portrayal, what would’ve happened to the others)?

IamAmberBenson: That would have been AWESOME!!! Tara the Vampire Slayer for one day. I would’ve been in heaven. She would’ve been the slayer who apoloized all the time: Ee! Sorry I had to stake you! Excuse me, I just need to get around this tombstone, oh, sorry I stepped on your tail!

Downstor: Hi Amber, I totally doubt you’ll remember this but this is probably my one and only chance to right an old wrong that still makes me cringe to this day. I was studying art in Rome with a bunch of students (one of them was your sister) back in 2000. I believe you and your mom came to visit your sister and hung out with all of us. During some small talk chit-chat the following cringe-worthy conversation took place and I’m really sorry.

Amber: “So where are you from?”

downstor: “Oh, I’m from Torrance. It’s a tiny city in Los Angeles that you’ve probably never heard of. I think it’s only famous as the place where they filmed 90210 and Buffy the Vampire Slayer or some other lame shows….”

Anyway, you didn’t even blink an eye and I had never watched the shows so I totally didn’t know you were an actor on Buffy, let alone an actor at all, till later on when your sister told me and I felt like such an asshole.

So this is me, apologizing for “15-years younger me” for any sort of slight or insult you may have taken from my comments. I have since watched the show and they’re pretty fun. But I also wanted to tell you how impressed I was after I found out that you were an actress about how cool and approachable you were and how you never once mentioned what you did for living or any name drops. It was very cool to meet a really down-to-earth famous actress (even though or perhaps especially because, I didn’t know you were one at the time.)

Best of luck in your new endeavors! Sorry for being an ass.

IamAmberBenson: Hahahahahahahahahaha! Please, no apologies necessary!! I always lie and tell people I’m an Insurance Adjuster, 🙂 But seriously, you have nothing to apologise for 🙂

AmberAddict: Oddball question if had to be transformed into an animal what would you be and why?

IamAmberBenson: Pig. Cause they are smart. No! Wait! Tuna Fish!!! Cause they are smart.

janeucrazy: Oh and what’s your Starbucks order>

IamAmberBenson: Soy latte

Nuddg I read Witches Of Echo Park, and loved it. I know some reviews are saying it wasn’t fast enough or nothing happened or there were “triggers” you had to “watch out for”. Bullocks to all I say! You did a good job making me feel like I was THERE, fleshing out the characters, and leaving me wanting more. Which, imho, is what a book should do.
Bottom line, you can’t please everyone, but the ones you do please, really appreciate it. (and you). Rules say I gotta ask a question, so, when is the second coming? (the book- not the jesus)

IamAmberBenson ha! I like that you had to qualify the second coming – that’s so what I would do 🙂 The book is due in March, so it’ll prob come out beginning of 2016.

I’m so glad you enjoyed the book. That makes me very happy. I’ve learned that the only person you can please is yourself. That’s it. That’s the person you have to make happy and fuck the naysayers.

Olya_z_tennis Theere is at least a small probability that you love tennis? If not tennis though, any sport? (Competitions in eating of ice cream isn’t considered)

IamAmberBenson I actually played tennis as a kid. I should get back into it. Thank you for reminding me 🙂

ThatSuperNerd: Did you have a good time on the Supernatural set?

IamAmberBenson Hell yeah! It’s a great set and the first ep I did, everyone had their dogs there. Which was triple awesome sauce.

amberalyson You change my life back in the day… you as Tara of course… thank you so much for your work back then. Because of the show I am today out and proud and studying media science at university.. do you plan to act again in the future?

IamAmberBenson Yay!! Your comment makes me very happy!! 🙂
Look out for Desire Will Set You Free on the acting front.

buffanator YOu said you don’t play an instrument, so if you could learn to play any instrument, what would it be?

IamAmberBenson: I wanna learn to play the bass guitar I own.

buffanator: What question do you want to have somebody ask you the most?

IamAmberBenson: Do you want to see magic? Not tricks and illusions, but honest to goodness magic?

buffanator: What was your family’s reaction to Tara dying?

IamAmberBenson: No one was happy about that. It was a family bummer 🙁

ZenTempus Were you always into the macabre? I watched your episode of Table top… and… it chilled me.

IamAmberBenson: haha! Yes, I am a card carrying member of the Gore Brigade. (I just made that up.) But honestly, I have always been obsessed by the dark and twisted. I think I worried about what monster was lurking inside me and inside everyone else out there so I needed to be informed.

travelersoul: MY niece wanted to ask you a question but is too busy being a fan girl to think about a question. So I’ll ask you one instead. You mentioned your book so what’s the book that inspired you to write?

IamAmberBenson:I think it was the little golden book: The Monster At The End of This Book. I was obsessed as a kid and I am always trying to top the surprise ending.

keyboardkin: How did you get the job?

IamAmberBenson: Wait, which job? There are many? 🙂

serenity482: Hi Amber,
I remember that your sister sold some nice T-shirts in the past with her art on it. As she is an incredible artist just like you, are you thinking to work with her together in the future? and if yes, what might that be?

IamAmberBenson: My sis is a tremendous artist – but now she is studying Chinese medicine – about to become an acupuncturist! So she’s kinda out of the art scene these days, sadly.

LordRendall: Take out: Chinese food or Pizza?

IamAmberBenson: Chinese food.

PawneePorpoise: What is the last thing you watched on Netflix

IamAmberBenson: The Murdoch Mysteries

hometimerunner: Hey Amnber, what’s your typical writing day look like?
Also, loved you on Buffy 🙂

IamAmberBenson: Aw, thank you! 🙂
Go to a coffee shop and write with my crew, THE SHAMERS. We shame each other into doing our work. It makes me not spend all day on Twitter.

django89: Hey amber huge fan. What was your thought when you found out that you were going to play a lesbian?

IamAmberBenson: I was happy that it meant Alyson was gonna be my lady. Cause we had been friends before the show and I felt really comfortable with her at the start 🙂

Content_FuckKarma: Why haven’t you explored singing?

IamAmberBenson: I am a shower singer. If I ever explored being a professional musician, I’d record The Shower Sessions as my first endeavor.

wrapped_in_clingfilm: I live in a box in the corner of a chip shop and don’t have a television, so I had to Google you. You pout a lot in your photos. Are you coming on to me?

IamAmberBenson: I’ve got resting pout face. I guess that means I’m coming on to the world, dammit. I should be choosier, eh 😉 Maybe I need to get a pout-ectomy. 🙂

HenarT: Do you believe in magic?

IamAmberBenson: I do. I wanna. My friend Russell says I’m an Empiricist. So I want some proof, tho.

buffanater: What is the most off the wall idea you’ve had when writing/directing?

IamAmberBenson: Someone watering a plastic potted plant and then peeing on a couch. A lot.

ladygnome: So… This book of yours… Is it going to be a stand alone novel or part of a larger series? Who is your intended audience?

IamAmberBenson: Gonna be more than one. And the audience is anyone who likes naughty magic sex scenes, well-written characters and magical locales.

Reedisbomb: How do you respond to widespread criticism from the media that you are, “a big dumb goofball, and you’ll die a big dumb goofball”?

IamAmberBenson: All I can say is AMEN! It’s the truth and I see no way around it, brothers and sisters.

JohnnyRoss: Have you ever attempted to get revenge on Adam Busch in any way for killing you? I would go with something on the lines of skin removal.

IamAmberBenson: I dated him. That was revenge enough. Poor guy.

Wyliekat: Going on the premise that everyone has a snack/food combo they thing they’re the only ones to love/eat.. what’s yours? (example pertaining to no one in particular, least of all me: crispy pan fried cheddar cheese.)

IamAmberBenson: Pasta with butter and nutritional yeast – apparently only children eat it.

Liquidmentality: What was it like having Alyson Hannigan go down on you?

IamAmberBenson: They cut out right before that happened. Silly TV censors.

Odin_69: You have answered so many great questions compared to some other AMAs I have read recently! Do you have a particular writing style, maybe modeled after others who have influenced your career?

IamAmberBenson: I’m trying! There are just so many!
I can’t read while I’m writing or I start trying to write like the book I’m reading.
Trying to sound like Murakami while writing urban fantasy does not go well together.

real-dreamer: Thank you for making what you do and what you did.

Your character on Buffy taught me that I can be me. That not every queer person is dangerous, like Buffalo Bill, or sinful and lecherous. Whatever it might be. The tv series changed my life.

Thank you.

My question is, “What gives you hope?”

I struggle sometimes in life. Like everyone else. And I’m asking you this because I’d l would like to get hear different ways to get through. I think it would be helpful to hear how other people keep going.

Thanks again for everything you do.

IamAmberBenson: What gives me ‘hope’?

The knowledge that when I go to sleep at night, I will be waking up to a whole new day where anything is possible.

I have shitty days where I’m depressed and miserable, but I know that they will pass, that I can go to my therapist and talk about what’s happening, that I’m lucky enough to live in a time when there are drugs that can help when you’re in a hole, emotionally.

That’s what gives me hope. That and my friends and family. They love me and support me. And for that I am fucking lucky.

oreogasm: I just wanted you to know that I love and relate to Taras character so much.. especially the Family episode. I’ve loved the show since I was around age 11 (24 now) and it means so much to me, and the Buffy community that you are doing this. Thank you for being awesome!

my question (honestly I shouldn’t care about spoilers at this point, but) How do you think Taras character would have evolved if.. ahem, her fate were different?

PS, to further prove my love, I proudly have the tag ‘Tara’ on r/buffy, 🙂

IamAmberBenson: Woohoo! Great tag 🙂
I think she and Willow would have made it work. They would have had the happy ending. As far as I’m concerned, they had the best relationship on the show. They were in charge of Dawn, for goodness sake. They were a team. I really loved them together.

MyNamesRyan: If you could reccomend me to read one or two books, what would the be?

IamAmberBenson: Geek Love & The Master and Margarita

DurMonAtor: Hope I haven’t missed this, loved you on Buffy Amber, so I’m afraid this is another Buffy questions, how did you feel when, I assume, Joss came to you and said you’re going to die in that episode? I’ve just always wondered. Also, do you still talk to the cast at all?

IamAmberBenson: I do talk to a lot of the cast. They were such a good group.
I was bummed that she was gonna die, but I understood, from a story perspective why it was happening.

Icirus/strong> Hey Amber. Love your work on Buffy, but good God I hated your character. She seemed so broken and battered when she wasn’t with Willow. Notably the shy mannerisms and speech impediment. Was this a problem of self confidence brought on by an abusive family?

What writeing rutials if any do you have when you are trying to start writing for the day?

IamAmberBenson: Check out the ep Family. It’ll give you a lot more insight into Tara.
I have to have the right music. It’s very important. I need atmosphere that’s appropriate to a scene or I just can’t write it.

need_more_hours: First of all, Tara and Willow got me through high school as someone who was out of the closet and rejected by her parents. Such a deep love for that story.
To the actual question: Do you prefer hardcover, paperback, or ebook? What books can we find on your shelf?

IamAmberBenson: Your parents should be ashamed. You are magnificent as you are and one day they will see that…
Def a tactile girl, So hardcover probably. I love taking books into the tub with me and paperbacks get wet easier.
I have an eclectic book love – everything from Christopher Pike to Tolstoy.

Venoft: When you tell people you were in King of the Hill, how often do people think you were playing an animation character?

IamAmberBenson:100% of the time – except my friend David Nadelberg, who was a fan of the Soderbergh film.

hiromasaki: If you were cursed to change into anything/anyone else on the full moon, but you got to pick, what would you pick? Werewolf? Werebunny? Were-Whedon. Were-redhead?
Tackos or nachos?

IamAmberBenson: We-pickle. A giant one.
Nachos

elypuente: You asked for odd questions and honestly I don’t have any, but I really really want to be noticed by you so I’m gonna try with this: what song do you sing while you are in the shower? 😛 Everyone sings in the shower, you can’t get out of this 😛

IamAmberBenson: I make up songs. They usually sound like songs from the 1940s – I like to sing while my head is under water. It sounds pretty.

AQ90: Are you pretty?

IamAmberBenson: Some days I think so and other days I’m like: Ugh, where’s the paper bag and the scissors?

marblefaunismobingin: How did they get the mustard out?

IamAmberBenson: A lot of scrubbing. hehehe

BlueSoup10: Do you think Buffy belonged with Spike or Angel? Love your work.

IamAmberBenson: Probably Angel, but loved the dynamic with Spike.

escapegoat84: What’s your opnion on Opeth’s last two albums not having any deathmetal vocals in them? If you were to talk to Mikael Akerfeldt, would you tell him to use more growling?

IamAmberBenson: I think growling is sexy. I will have to now check out these Opeth albums…

Loved your duet with Anthony Head. Was it fun to make?:

IamAmberBenson: I adore that man. Singing the duet was the highlight of the musical for me.

vetworker24: I got to meet you back when you came to Houston for your book signing and the musical show. Do you plan on coming back? If no plans are in the works, then make it happen!!

IamAmberBenson: I will be in Houston at Murder By The Book on 1/12 – come and say hi!!

ThortonText: Are you interested in writing for television, and which current show would you want to join the writers room for?

IamAmberBenson: Yes and Hannibal.

drdrizzy13: Hey Amber huge fan!! Are you a lesbian in realy life? If you are or aren’t have you ever slept with a guy?

IamAmberBenson: I keep an open mind policy – why close any door, ya know? I am not a virgin. So there’s that. Do with it what you will. 🙂

Markastansky: Where did you learn to sing?

IamAmberBenson: My dad would play folk songs on the guitar and I’d sing along. This Land is Your Land was a favorite of mine.

LightDream18754: Hi Amber! Huge fan of Buffy…but my question is actually about Supernatural! How were Jenson, Jared, and Misha on set? I’ve heard they are goofballs but would like to know for sure!

IamAmberBenson: They are. And so nice, too.

sightalignment: Celebrity Net Worth says you’re worth $3 million dollars. How accurate is that website?

IamAmberBenson: God… if I had 3 million dollars I’d buy an island and run away. Who can I talk to about getting 3 million dollars?

that_is_so_Raven: Do you watch Breaking Bad? If so, what are your thoughts on it?

IamAmberBenson: It’s SO good. Makes me fucking nervous as hell when I watch it.

FustyLuggz: What does James Marsters smell like? Is he as amazingly gorgeous in person as I think he is?

IamAmberBenson: He is very gorgeous. Can’t remember what he smelled like…

chelseabeannn: Any chance you’re gonna be coming to Detroit for the book signing tour?

IamAmberBenson: I would love to come back to Detroit. Bookstore in detroit, hit me up!

3ringbout: Here is an oddball one.
Who would win in a fight, a crossword puzzle or a Sudoku puzzle?
Also, what would be the referee

IamAmberBenson: I am ALWAYS the referee. ALWAYS.
Crossword, baby, all the way!

gogofuckio: Hey Amber!

What happened to make you switch gears from acting to writing? Did you always want to be a writer or did you just sort of fall into it?

Also, I did not see Season 6 till last year, when I first started taking hormones (m to f transgender person right here).

New hormone spikes and crazyness mixed in with the amazing work you and the rest did that season left me in actual mourning. Sounds crazy, but after a lifetime of feeling….so out of sorts in my body and so emtionally dead…it was like going from being deaf to listening to the beatles for the first time….emotionally if that makes sense.

So thanks for that. And tell Joss he is an utter bastard.

IamAmberBenson: I don’t think he understood what Tara’s death was gonna do to people. He’s a good guy and he was thinking purely from a story POV. I think hindsight is 20/20, ya know? Argh! so sorry it affected you so deeply. But I’m glad that you got the stuff out of it, too <3

I always wrote, and you spend a lot of time on set sitting around, so instead of reading, I started doing more and more writing. It’s weird how life moves you, and things you don’t think about suddenly become the focus of your life. I don’t know. Life is really odd 😉 But I love acting and writing both, and hope to do more in the future.

rwgordon: How did you feel about the widescreen HD release of Buffy exposing more of the frame and ruining the viewing experience?

IamAmberBenson:Well, we shot on film, so, in theory, we should have a nice frame underneath the TV (3/4) matting – but since I haven’t seen the widescreen, I just don’t know. Will have to take a peek and see for myself.

nifty: Hi Amber! I really enjoyed your last series of books. I am in Australia and ordered signed copies for my daughter and I… She is super proud of her autographed copies!
How different is your new book to the Deaths Daughter series? o and HI! from Australia!

IamAmberBenson: It’s way more adult and has some adult ‘scenes’ so be aware.
Hi backatcha!! Coming to Australia in March/April!!!

DaBillmann: Asking this as an amateur writer myself: Ever read somnething you’ve written and said to yourself “Good GOD! WTF was I THINKING?” Or written dialogue then wanted to punch the character for saying it? I’d almost say I myself am guilty of doing these things more often than not. LOL

IamAmberBenson: All the damn time.

Beastin67: Whatr is your most memorable shoot from Buffy? Like which one stands out from all the rest for you?

IamAmberBenson: The Musical. That was my fav by far. I mean, how often do you get to sing on TV?

rowdyme: Oddball question. What’s wrong with your thumbnail in that pic?

IamAmberBenson: I bite them. It’s a terrible habit

Office_Zombie: OK, this is really personal I know, but…
Are the residuals from Buffy enough to set you for life? I always wondered if one hit TV show was enough to do it.

IamAmberBenson: Nope. Remember that X-Files David Duchovny thing…

Lunnaku: What’s your favorite color? Favorite kind of tea? What’s the most important human vaue you think most people lack? What inspired you to write? I’ve written a few children’s books but never got anything published.

IamAmberBenson: Magic eight ball says if you keep writing, you will get something published.
Black (which is the absence of color). Rooibos tea. Empathy. I write because I have to.

Supersaucers: Why do you think anyone cares you’re a lesbian? You aren’t special, you are just as boring as the rest of us.

IamAmberBenson: In real life I am sooooooooo boring!!! It’s totally true! But I did get to play a lesbian witch on TV – and THAT is the fucking coolest.

CharmingDoctor: I’m not sure if you’re still answering questions but thanks for doing this, I’m a huge BtVS fan.
I loved your performance on Supernatural. Do you have any fun memories or behind-the-scene secrets from the set?
Also, I heard that you lurked on some Buffy forums back in the day and were hurt by some of the things that fans said about you. What’s your favorite thing that you have seen people say about you online?

IamAmberBenson: Aww, thanks. Well, when I, uh, died on Supernatural, I had to fall over a bunch and every time they called “CUT!” those guys would offer me a hand up. Such Gentlemen.
I did lurk and post at THE BRONZE. I got called fat and ugly. It hurt. But you know what? I still have great boobs and curvy hips and those guys are still sitting in their parents basements trolling the internet.
Fav thing: THIS REDDIT

notlikeicare: Hi Amber! Thanks for doing this! Two questions for you:
Have you ever watched Nickelodeon’s The Legend of Korra? If so, what did you think about the finale?
If there were a Funko Pop doll or Tara, what would the outfit be?

IamAmberBenson: That show is on my list to watch!! So no theory on the finale yet.
Funko Pop Tara would be in the musical ep corset princess dress.

IrishPatriot20: Your name sounds more like a hybrid of smoking tobacco than a persons name.
Edit: This has to be a question so… do you like to eat bagels? I like bagels with lots of whole fat butter, ham, some cheese and a nice milky/sugary cup of coffee.

IamAmberBenson: Oh, I like that!!! Hybrid smoking tobacco! Coolio 🙂
That sounds heavenly. I am in for a bagel and milky/sugart extravaganza with you!

justtoclick: I always make these things too late, but I am curious how you liked working on the Morganville web series? I know Roxzanne was over the moon that you were going to be involved…

IamAmberBenson: I LOVED working on MORGANVILLE. Rachel Caine is one of my fav people and when she asked me to play Amelie, I was in 7th Heaven. Everyone should check it out here:

http://www.morganvilletheseries.com/
I AM BAD ASS

MoxieCrush: What is the favorite prop you’ve ever taken from a set?

IamAmberBenson: I’m not really a ‘thing’ girl. But I did keep the back-up pair of jeans from when I got shot.

fppab: I just want to say that 2 of the saddest words I’ve heard are ‘your shirt’, were they the hardest lines you’ve had to deliver as an actress?

IamAmberBenson: They were. After we shot that scene, everybody cried. 🙁

anchorbend: The characters in your book have unique, eccentric names. What do you wish your parents would’ve named you?

IamAmberBenson: I always wanted a boy name. I actually called myself TIMMY when I was little.

GrungeRockGerbil: How was your experience working on Another Harvest Moon? It must’ve been a hoot working with Ernie (RIP!)

IamAmberBenson: He was great. So many great stories.

Thac: Why did you feel the need to include your sexual orientation in the title of your AMA?

IamAmberBenson: I played a lesbian witch on Buffy. It’s what I’m known for. And I’m proud of the fact. The LGBTQ characters on the show opened a lot of doors, helped make way for more representation in mainstream media. It’s important to me to acknowledge that.

WhatsThisMeanAnyhoo: Is it ture that because of your figure, they were wary of casting you in Buffy? How did that make you feel, and how did they get past it?

IamAmberBenson: They just had a different type of person in mind. But I won them over. Well, Marti Noxon actually was my champion.

MdmeLibrarian: When you read erotica with Patrick Rothfuss, how adorable was his blush?

IamAmberBenson: That was SO MUCH fun. One of my fav book signing experiences ever.

dnekuen: Hello Amber! Will your book be on the same level of writing as Rampart the movie?:

IamAmberBenson: I haven’t seen it. But the street Rampart is very close to Echo Park.

Alexj3333: Here’s some oddball questions. Do you believe in aliens? Do you think they would have approved of SPECIFALLY that one time Tara’s hair was parted in a zig zag pattern? And would you prefer if aliens had horizontal or vertical mouths?

IamAmberBenson: I believe there are aliens out there (or maybe WE are the aliens). They would’ve loved the zig zag and vertical mouth.

mlkk22: My history teacher’s brother is David Boreanaz, what do you think of him as a person, and as an actor?

IamAmberBenson: I’ve only met him like twice and he seems very nice. I never knew him while I was on the show.

a9uilar: Loved Buffy! How hard was it to act as someone who is mentally challenged?

IamAmberBenson:I spent the whole time in pjs. It was kind of awesome having Glory suck my brain out

justkilc: Who is Amber Benson outside of Buffy?

IamAmberBenson: A very normal, kinda boring chick who lives in a studio apartment and reads a lot of books.

elypuente: What’s your favorite mexican food? Much love from Mexico!! 🙂

IamAmberBenson: Corn Tortillas

SoltanPill: Are you a fan of Kristen Wig and Bridesmaids?

IamAmberBenson: Hell yess!

IamAmberBenson: Okay, I am done. This was mucho fun – thank you guys so much for coming and hanging out with me for the last few hours. I hope I answered honestly and with a dash of weirdo humor. Thanks to Victoria – who is a ROCKSTAR – for helping me out. You can check out THE WITCHES OF ECHO PARK here: www.thewitchesofechopark.tumblr.com & the Shevenge INDIEGOGO campaign here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/shevenge and listen to me sing in Back To BAckspace: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bvo9dKeUovQ (It’s at the end!)

Also the oddball winner is: FRAAC: How weird is it to be a grownup?

If this is you, tweet me on twitter and lets do this wingman thang!

Original article at reddit

Author: Cider

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