Amy Acker

Amy Louise Acker was born on December 5, 1976 in Dallas, Texas. Her early life is notable for ballet and modern dance studies spanning 14 years, and although an injury put an end to her dance career, it spurred her towards the dramatic arts. After graduating Lake Highlands High School, she went on to receive a bachelor's degree in theater from Southern Methodist University in 1999. Not limited to acting, Acker also took up modeling during her college years. She also honed her acting skills on stage with the American Players Theatre in Spring Green, Wisconsin. Her breakthrough role came as Winifred 'Fred' Burkle in the TV series 'Angel', for which she received the 2003 Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actress on Television. Her acting career expanded in 2005 when she joined 'Alias' as Kelly Peyton. Additionally, Acker lent her voice to the animated series 'Justice League Unlimited'. Her credits also include guest appearances on 'How I Met Your Mother' and a recurring role in Joss Whedon's 'Dollhouse'. In 2010, she took on a regular role in 'Happy Town' and guest-starred on CBS's 'The Good Wife'. Acker continued her career with roles in 'Much Ado About Nothing', 'Husbands', and 'Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.' From 2012 to 2016, she played Samantha 'Root' Groves on CBS's 'Person of Interest' and later starred as Caitlin Strucker in 'The Gifted'. Acker also took part in a parody of aftershows titled 'What Just Happened??! with Fred Savage' playing Dr. Rachel Layne. Her career reflects a dynamic range of roles, showing a solid commitment to the entertainment industry. She married actor James Carpinello on April 25, 2003. They have two children born in 2005 and 2006, respectively.