Amber Reign Smith’s journey through the entertainment world has been one of passion, perseverance, and undeniable talent. With roots in Atlanta, she has steadily transformed her childhood dream of becoming an actress into a flourishing career. Her breakout role in Tyler Perry’s Beauty in Black, Perry’s first Netflix series, is not just another milestone—it represents Amber’s personal growth and the hard-fought battles she’s overcome. From facing unprofessional experiences early in her career to standing tall in roles that showcase her depth and range, Amber’s path is one marked by resilience. Today, she stands as a rising star, ready to take her career to the next level.

A Journey Fueled by Passion and Resilience

Amber’s path to success hasn’t been a straight line. Early on in her career, she faced numerous challenges, including moments of doubt and uncomfortable experiences that tested her resolve. “I’ve seen and experienced some really unprofessional things on set, some things that made me very uncomfortable as a woman. But just to get from there to where I am now—surrounded by love, professionalism, and people who are amazing at what they do—it’s been so rewarding,” Amber reflects.

Each obstacle became a stepping stone, pushing her to refine her craft and embrace her authenticity as an actress. With roles in projects like Wu-Tang: An American Saga, where she worked with legendary director RZA, Amber has continually demonstrated her versatility. “That was so much fun. I was able to work with RZA on the episodes I was in—it was like being in a hip-hop music video!” she shared with a laugh, describing her experience of playing a biker chick with crazy hair, riding ATVs on a beach in New Jersey. These experiences have shaped her into the artist she is today: resilient, passionate, and ready to tackle roles that challenge her.

Rain: A Complex Character with Deep Roots

Amber’s breakthrough role as Rain in Beauty in Black is one that resonates deeply with her personal experiences and creative vision. The series, created by Tyler Perry, follows Kimmy, a young woman navigating the treacherous world of fame and beauty standards. Rain, played by Amber, is Kimmy’s steadfast best friend. But Rain’s character goes beyond being just a supportive sidekick—she’s a woman with her own layers, struggles, and a unique perspective on life.

“Rain is Kimmy’s best friend, and she’s really gotten used to the lifestyle that she’s been living. She thinks that this is it for her, so she’s comfortable where she is. We see her finding her way through actually getting comfortable where she is and what that means,” Amber explained. Through Rain, Amber wanted to explore what it means to become complacent, and the complexities of redefining one’s self in a world that constantly demands more.

Rain’s character is both relatable and raw, portraying the unfiltered reality of a woman navigating friendship, self-identity, and the challenges of the entertainment industry. “I think my character is very realistic. She’s not sugar-coated. She goes through things that a lot of women, especially in the industry, have gone through. It’s raw and uncut when it comes to Rain’s story,” Amber shared. This authenticity is what makes Rain stand out, and Amber’s portrayal breathes life into a character who is flawed, vulnerable, and fiercely loyal.

Creating Rain: A Collaborative Process

Amber’s approach to playing Rain was rooted in deep character exploration and collaboration with her co-star, Taylor Polidore, who plays Kimmy. “Preparing for Rain was a lot of storytelling. I filled in all the blanks, the things that I didn’t know about her. I tried to really put myself in her shoes. Her and Kimmy met very young. Taylor and I worked together to build that story out—thinking about where we may have met, what situations we came from, and how we got here together,” she revealed.

Amber and Taylor’s off-screen chemistry and creative synergy helped shape the nuanced friendship that plays out on-screen. This collaborative process allowed Amber to dig deeper into Rain’s psyche, resulting in a performance that feels lived-in and resonant. “It was a lot of collaborative work, but also just journaling and really getting to the depths of who Rain is,” she added.

Working with Tyler Perry: A Dream Realized

Joining Tyler Perry’s first Netflix series was a full-circle moment for Amber, who has long admired his work. “I’ve always gotten, ‘When are you going to work with Tyler Perry?’ It’s been a long time coming,” she laughed. Working on Beauty in Black has been more than just another gig—it’s a career milestone and an opportunity to work in an environment that fosters creativity and respect.

“There’s this beautiful energy on set, and everything comes from the head,” Amber noted, emphasizing the positive atmosphere at Tyler Perry Studios. Being part of a groundbreaking project that showcases diverse stories and complex characters is an experience that Amber cherishes deeply. It’s not just about being on screen—it’s about contributing to narratives that resonate with audiences and pave the way for more inclusive storytelling.

Looking Ahead: New Horizons for Amber Reign Smith

With Beauty in Black making waves, Amber is already looking ahead to her next challenge. She’s eager to explore more complex roles that push her boundaries. “I’m really interested in doing psychological thrillers…maybe a superhero,” she mused, her eyes lighting up at the possibilities. Whatever the genre, Amber’s focus remains the same: bringing truth and depth to every character she portrays.

As a proud mother, Amber also balances her career with family life, relying on a strong support system. “I have a great nanny and a great support system,” she said, grateful for the people who help her manage her multifaceted life. Her dedication to both her craft and her family serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors who hope to find that elusive balance.

Photography Credit: Chrisean Rose