Meet Cindy Busby: The Woman Behind CBC Heartland's Ashley Stanton

Did you know how to ride before you appeared on Heartland?

Fortunately, being a skilled horseback rider was not a prerequisite for landing the role of Ashley Stanton on Heartland. I had no prior riding experience. However, once I learned that CBC had greenlit the series, I immediately began taking private lessons, which was a personal decision. Additionally, we received training from horse wranglers while filming in Calgary. It was crucial for me to depict Ashley authentically, so becoming comfortable with horses was essential. After all, horses can be quite daunting.”

Cindy Busby's portrayal of Ashley Stanton on CBC's Heartland may be a few seasons back, but her character's impact remains strong. Busby recently shared some fun anecdotes and insights from her time on the show.

Fan Encounters and the Power of a Smile

Busby's experience at the Dallas airport highlights the enduring legacy of Heartland. A chance encounter with a fan, thrilled to meet her, offered a heartwarming reminder: "A fan's smiling face is the best way" to brighten a challenging day.

Working with Horses: A Calming and Enchanting Experience

Busby cherishes the calming effect horses bring to a set. She admires the wranglers' expertise and enjoys observing the horses' unique personalities. While she hasn't ridden since Heartland, she's open to future opportunities.

Laughter Behind the Scenes: The "Vortex" and Ashley's Transformation

Busby recalls the ongoing joke about the unpredictable weather plaguing Ashley and Caleb's trailer location, dubbed "the Vortex." She also shares the cast's amusement over Ashley's character. Graham (Ty) and Amber (Amy) found it hilarious to see Busby portray someone so different from her real personality.

Busby delves into Ashley's character, acknowledging her initial meanness. She emphasizes empathy for Ashley's upbringing and the impact it had on her behavior. Busby finds common ground with Ashley's work ethic, humor, and desire for growth. She commends the writers for Ashley's positive transformation over the seasons.

A Fond Farewell to the Heartland Family

Busby highlights the cast and crew as the best part of working on Heartland. She cherishes the friendships forged and the overall positive experience.

Supernatural: A Fun and Welcoming Set

Busby describes her time on Supernatural as fantastic. She enjoyed the camaraderie and the show's welcoming atmosphere. While she avoided pranks, the experience left her with a touch of "prank FOMO" (fear of missing out).

Horseback Riding and Upcoming Projects

Busby, a self-proclaimed "city girl who loves the country," doesn't currently ride horses but looks forward to getting back in the saddle. She encourages fans to follow her social media for updates on upcoming projects.