About Ashley

 I am an actor, humanitarian, author, sister and daughter whose roots are deep in Eastern Kentucky. I believe I am a spiritual being having a human experience, and that our common welfare is bound up together.

In my 55 years, I have felt deep joys, lived through deep hardship, nearly died in Africa from an accident in the jungle, and had uncanny success. Most of all, I have been loved, and I have loved.

I am eager to connect with you.

Hi, I’m Ashley!

 My Story

1968

Born in  Granada Hills, Los Angeles. My “sister mommy,” already looking after me when I was just a wee thing. 

1993

Starred in Victor Nuñez's Ruby in Paradise. My glorious first film, which remains perhaps my favorite experience . So special. 

2010

Received my master’s degree in public administration at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. At Harvard Law, I was awarded the Dean’s Scholar Award for my paper on gender violence.

2017

Named as a “Silence Breaker” Time Person of the Year. 

1973

The fam

1997

Starred in Kissed the Girl. The beginning of my friendship with Morgan Freeman!

2011

Released my memoir, about my travels around the world,  "All That Is Bitter and Sweet."

2021

February 2021, while hiking in the jungle in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, I shattered my leg. I was transported for 55 hours to a hospital for surgery in South Africa.

1978

I loved my teacher, Mrs Bogardaus, who encouraged my love of reading and for whom I tried to please on my spelling tests.

1999

Starred in Double Jeopardy. A movie I remain so proud of, and I am delighted a new generation of moviegoers keep discovering it.

2016

Appointed as a UN Goodwill Ambassador with reproductive health agency UNFPA.

2023

Visited Turkey as a UN Goodwill Ambassador 6 months after the devastating earthquakes.

1986

With the Judds on the road, the family getting together, it was always special. I lived with my Nana in the 12th grade, andI am grateful for that precious time.

2002

Divine Secrets Of The Ya-Ya Sisterhood
Starred in the Ya-Ya Sisterhood - one of my favorites!

2017

Attended and spoke at the Women’s March in Washington, DC. It gave millions hope, and aggravated quite a few others!

2024

Ready for my next chapter

Ashley is in-demand as a speaker on a number of topics ranging from mental health awareness, to women’s sexual and reproductive rights, and her work as a UN Goodwill Ambassador. She is sought after for events with corporations, annual conferences, and on the world’s stage.

A highly-regarded advocate and activist for decades, Judd uses her gift for storytelling to share her experiences working in communities across the globe.

Speaking Opportunities

What People Are Saying

  • “Criss-crossing the globe to help meet some of the most challenging humanitarian circumstances, UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador Ashley Judd exudes fearlessness and inspires the women and girls she meets. On her travels with UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, she’s proven to be one of our most dedicated and hard-working advocates. For the women and girls we serve, our staff and the donors vital to our operations, her authenticity, compassion and ability to connect with others is refreshing, and everyone feels that every time they work with her."

    Dr Natalia Kanem, UNFPA Executive Director and Under Secretary for the UN

  • “Ashley Judd is a natural-born public speaker. She’s energetic and thoughtful, and she keeps audiences rapt at attention. I've seen her give engrossing and compelling speeches about her upbringing, and have watched her advocate passionately and effectively for political and social causes to small and large groups of people alike. She's a truly extraordinary speaker. "

    Ganesh Sitaraman, Director, Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator for Political Economy and Regulation, New York Alumni Chancellor's Chair in Law, Vanderbilt Law School

  • "Ashley Judd is an actor by profession but a committed, generous and passionate changemaker in all she does. She has joined me in many public events and each time -- whether the topic is fighting gender based violence, women’s leadership, what we owe each other or so much more -- she is inspiring, eloquent, interesting and informed. It’s always an absolute joy to be with her. The world would be a far better place with more Ashley Judds!”

    Melanne Verveer, Former US Ambassador for Global Women’s Issues; Director of Georgetown University Institute for Women, Peace & Security