Ethan Embry is a name that resonates with fans of 90s teen cinema, cult classics, and versatile television roles. With a career spanning over three decades, he has evolved from a child actor into a respected figure in Hollywood, known for his authenticity and resilience.
Quick Bio
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Ethan Philan Randall |
Stage Name | Ethan Embry |
Date of Birth | June 13, 1978 |
Age (2025) | 47 years old |
Birthplace | Huntington Beach, California, USA |
Height | 5’10” (1.78 m) |
Weight | Approx. 160 lbs (73 kg) |
Eye Color | Green |
Hair Color | Light Brown |
Marital Status | Married to Sunny Mabrey (remarried in 2015) |
Children | One son, Cogeian Sky Embry |
Net Worth | Estimated $3 million |
Known For | Empire Records, Can’t Hardly Wait, Grace & Frankie |
Early Life and Background

Born as Ethan Philan Randall on June 13, 1978, in Huntington Beach, California, Ethan grew up in a creative household. His father, Charles Randall, was a dental technician, while his mother, Karen Randall, worked as a screenwriter and talent manager. Ethan was homeschooled after a teacher recommended Ritalin on his first day of kindergarten—a decision that shaped his independent spirit and artistic path.
He has two siblings: Aaron Embry, a talented musician, and Kessia Randall, a photographer and former actress. Ethan’s early interest in gymnastics not only gave him discipline but also helped him perform many of his own stunts later in his acting career.
Career Beginnings
Ethan began acting at the young age of 12, quickly landing roles in over 100 commercials. His film debut came in 1991 with Defending Your Life, followed by standout performances in Dutch and All I Want for Christmas. These early roles showcased his natural charisma and set the stage for a prolific career.
Breakthrough Roles
The mid-90s marked Ethan’s rise to fame. He starred as Mark in the cult classic Empire Records (1995), a role that earned him a loyal fanbase. In Can’t Hardly Wait (1998), he played Preston Meyers, a romantic lead that solidified his status as a teen heartthrob. His role as Bobby Ray in Sweet Home Alabama (2002) alongside Reese Witherspoon demonstrated his versatility in romantic comedies.
Television Success
Ethan transitioned smoothly into television, taking on complex roles that showcased his depth as an actor. He starred in Brotherhood (2006–2008) as Declan Griggs, a gritty crime drama character. His portrayal of Coyote Bergstein in Grace and Frankie (2015–2022) brought humor and heart to the Netflix hit. He also appeared in Sneaky Pete, The Walking Dead, Grey’s Anatomy, and Once Upon a Time, proving his adaptability across genres.
Recent Projects and Current Work
In recent years, Ethan has continued to impress with roles in Blindspotting, First Man, and Last Seen Alive. His performance as Officer Molina in Blindspotting tackled themes of race and identity, while First Man saw him portray astronaut Pete Conrad. As of 2025, Ethan remains active in both film and television, consistently choosing roles that challenge and inspire.
Age and Physical Appearance

At 47 years old, Ethan maintains a youthful and athletic appearance. Standing at 5’10” (1.78 m) and weighing around 160 lbs (73 kg), he has a lean build shaped by years of gymnastics and fitness training. His green eyes and light brown hair give him a distinctive look, often complemented by his rugged beard and tattooed skin.
Personal Life and Relationships

Ethan’s personal life has seen its share of ups and downs. He married actress Amelinda Smith in 1998, and they had a son, Cogeian Sky Embry, before divorcing in 2002. He later married Sunny Mabrey in 2005, divorced in 2012, and rekindled their relationship in 2013. The couple remarried in 2015 and have been together since, sharing homes in Los Angeles and Atlanta. Ethan also had a brief relationship with Katharine Towne from 2002 to 2003.
Struggles and Recovery
Behind the scenes, Ethan battled addiction to heroin and prescription painkillers for two years. In 2011, he achieved sobriety and has since become a vocal advocate for addiction awareness. His openness about recovery has inspired many, and he continues to support legislation that treats addiction as a health issue rather than a criminal one.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
With an estimated net worth of $3 million, Ethan enjoys a comfortable lifestyle rooted in creativity and wellness. He’s passionate about music, photography, and fitness, especially CrossFit, which played a key role in his recovery journey. Despite his success, Ethan remains grounded and committed to meaningful work.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Ethan changed his surname from Randall to Embry to honor his grandfather.
- He performs many of his own stunts thanks to his gymnastics background.
- Plays in a punk-metal band and has a deep love for tattoos—his chest features a bold American traditional design.
- He’s left-handed when writing but plays guitar right-handed.
- His son’s name, Cogeian, comes from the Latin word cogeo, meaning “to think over.”
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Ethan Embry is more than just a familiar face from the 90s—he’s a symbol of resilience, versatility, and authenticity. His roles in Empire Records and Can’t Hardly Wait made him a teen icon, while his later work in Grace and Frankie and Sneaky Pete earned him critical acclaim. He continues to inspire fans with his candidness, talent, and commitment to growth.
Conclusion
From child star to seasoned performer, Ethan Embry has carved out a unique space in Hollywood. His journey reflects not only professional success but personal transformation. Whether on screen or off, Ethan remains a compelling figure whose story resonates with audiences across generations.
FAQs
How old is Ethan Embry?
Ethan Embry was born on June 13, 1978, which makes him 47 years old as of 2025.
What is Ethan Embry’s real name?
His birth name is Ethan Philan Randall, but he adopted Embry as a stage name to honor his grandfather.
Is Ethan Embry still married?
Yes, he is currently married to Sunny Mabrey. They remarried in 2015 after a brief separation.
Does Ethan Embry have children?
He has one son named Cogeian Sky Embry, born during his first marriage to Amelinda Smith.
What are Ethan Embry’s most famous roles?
He’s best known for Empire Records, Can’t Hardly Wait, and Sweet Home Alabama.
Has Ethan Embry appeared in TV shows?
Absolutely. He starred in Grace and Frankie, Sneaky Pete, and had guest roles in The Walking Dead and Grey’s Anatomy.
Where was Ethan Embry born and raised?
He was born in Huntington Beach, California, and raised in Los Angeles.
What is Ethan Embry’s height and appearance?
He stands at 5’10”, has green eyes, light brown hair, and maintains an athletic build.
What is Ethan Embry’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is around $3 million, earned through decades of acting in film and television.
Did Ethan Embry struggle with addiction?
Yes, he battled addiction to heroin and painkillers but has been sober since 2011 and now advocates for recovery awareness.
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