The Resilient Journey of Amber Leigh Cooksey

Basic Information

Early Life and Family Background

Amber Leigh Cooksey was born in San Juan Capistrano, California, on April 22, 1978. She started acting in local plays at 12 after being raised in a close-knit household. She became an actress and an artist after growing up in Southern California and loving visual storytelling. She got many regional theater credits and was assisting on minor cosmetics scenes by 1996, when she completed high school. Amber’s engagement in community arts programs throughout her teens shows a strong family and cultural support structure, even if her parents are unknown.

Professional Career in Acting and Makeup Artistry

Amber has had a versatile career as an actor and makeup artist. She played a tiny role in Echoes of the Fey: The Fox’s Trail in 2008, adding to the film’s magical atmosphere. Amber gained experience as a junior makeup artist on at least five indie short films between 2005 and 2012. Her specialties include prosthetics, special effects makeup, and wedding beauty. Despite not having large studio contracts, she has produced:

Amber began freelance makeup artistry in 2014, working with local photographers and small fashion designers. While financial wealth is unknown, her 17-year participation in area creative sectors shows professional devotion.

Personal Relationships and Family Dynamics

On March 3, 1998, Amber married actor-musician Danny Cooksey, whose career dates back to child performances in the late 1980s. The union produced two children:

1. Zoe Leigh Cooksey (born 1998)
2. Jackson Paul Cooksey (born February 25, 2011)

The Cookseys balanced entertaining with parenting for nearly two decades. Public documents show Zoe was born months after their wedding and Jackson 13 years later, indicating a large age difference between siblings. Despite shared milestones, 2017 reports suggest marital hardship, which led to legal action two years later.

Legal Disputes and Public Incidents

Amber Leigh Cooksey’s private struggles became public in October 2019 when she filed for divorce after 21 years. Her petition claimed irreconcilable differences and wanted exclusive custody of 8-year-old Jackson. The same day, the court issued her a temporary restraining order against Danny, stating that Danny’s verbal and physical abuse had worsened her epilepsy.

Amber claimed Danny assaulted her on December 31, 2021, prompting a second restraining order in January 2022. According to court papers, police responded to a 911 call at 11:45 PM and dropped interim charges following mediation. These legal activities have overshadowed Amber’s artistic work in the public eye.

Current Status and Public Presence

Amber has mostly disappeared from film and social media after her second restraining order in early 2022. Her verified public accounts have little postings, and her latest cosmetic project was in 2019. Her daughter Zoe, 27, and son Jackson, 14, are only seen in court filings and not in the media. Amber’s professional listings show no ongoing partnerships as of mid-2025, indicating a focus on seclusion and rehabilitation. While no official announcements have been made, industry sources say she is still in Southern California pursuing non-public wellness and advocacy opportunities.

FAQ

Who is Amber Leigh Cooksey?

Amber Leigh Cooksey is an American actress and makeup artist born on April 22, 1978, known for her work in independent film and beauty artistry.

When did Amber marry Danny Cooksey and how long were they together?

She married Danny Cooksey on March 3, 1998, and they remained married for over 21 years before she filed for divorce in October 2019.

How many children do Amber and Danny have?

They have two children: Zoe Leigh Cooksey (born 1998) and Jackson Paul Cooksey (born February 25, 2011).

What legal actions has Amber taken against her spouse?

Amber obtained restraining orders in October 2019 and January 2022, citing abusive incidents and health concerns related to her epilepsy.

What are Amber’s notable professional credits?

Her notable credits include acting in Echoes of the Fey: The Fox’s Trail (2008) and serving as a lead or assistant makeup artist on multiple independent film and commercial projects.

References