Ashley Hinshaw was born and raised in LaPorte, Indiana, where she spent her formative years before making the bold decision to relocate to New York at the tender age of 16 to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. This courageous move was prompted by her earlier success in modeling, having appeared in numerous ads for Abercrombie and Fitch, shot by renowned photographer Bruce Weber.
As her star began to rise, Hinshaw landed a guest role on the popular television series Gossip Girl in 2007, playing herself in a memorable appearance. The experience proved to be a valuable stepping stone, leading her to relocate to Los Angeles and secure a role in the high school comedy LOL, opposite the talented Miley Cyrus, in 2012.
That same year, Hinshaw also appeared in the film About Cherry, a critically acclaimed drama that premiered at the 2012 Berlin International Film Festival. The film boasted an impressive cast, including Dev Patel, James Franco, Heather Graham, and Lili Taylor, and marked a significant milestone in Hinshaw's burgeoning career.
Throughout her career, Hinshaw has demonstrated her versatility by taking on a wide range of roles in various television shows and films. Her credits include appearances in HBO's True Detective, True Blood, and Enlightened, as well as the Crackle series StartUp and the E! drama series The Arrangement.
In her personal life, Hinshaw married actor Topher Grace on May 29, 2016, and the couple welcomed their daughter, Mabel Jane Grace, in November 2017.
In addition to her acting endeavors, Hinshaw has also ventured into the world of filmmaking, making her directorial debut with the short film Hunter Gatherer in 2018. Shot in her home state of Indiana while she was seven months pregnant, the film is a deeply personal project that explores the child-welfare system. Hinshaw not only directed the film but also wrote, produced, and starred in it.
When she is not working on her own projects, Hinshaw is a passionate advocate for children in need, frequently speaking out about the importance of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children) and supporting the Art of Elysium charity. Her dedication to these causes is a testament to her compassionate nature and commitment to making a positive impact on the world.