Amanda Swisten is a former American actress and model born of Scandinavian descent. She was born on 20 December 1978 in Manhattan. Swisten spent most of her childhood in Connecticut before she moved to Los Angeles to pursue her career in acting.
Swisten started her career in acting in the movie American Wedding. She is also known for her role in The Girl Next Door and Two and a Half Men. She also appeared in the music videos William Hung’s She Bangs, Eminem’s The Real Slim Shady and Kid Rock’s Bawitdaba. Swisten is also known for her modelling in magazines including Maxim and Stuff, and calendars including DreamsGirls and Women of Soccer.
Additionally, Swisten visited Iraq with Dean Cain during the Iraq War. They visited various bases spending 12 to 18 hours signing autographs and giving out T-shirts. In her spare time she enjoys reading forensic science, looking up cars and listening to music. Swisten admits to reading and talking with a serial killer in her spare time.
Early life
Swisten was born in Manhattan, but grew up in Connecticut. She moved to Connecticut soon after she was born, where she spent most of her childhood. Swisten describes herself as a tomboy and a curious child, partaking in activities such as building forts and kickball. During this time she developed an interest in swimming at age 4. This interest led her to participate in swimming competitions at age 9, breaking records and briefly becoming a lifeguard.
At age 15, she moved to Charlottesville, Virginia as her family wanted a change of life. During this time she attended a private school, where she did not fit in. She describes this change as being shy and trapped like a wallflower. This occurred due to the school opposition towards the performing arts, an interest she accumulated when she was younger. She was also bullied by other girls her age. During this period she developed an interest for poetry, art and going to the gym. In an interview with Maxim, she stated that when she was a student she was also interested in science and medicine. She also volunteered at a sexual assault center to give herself a feeling of purpose.
At 16, Swisten worked at a gym, receiving aerobics and personal training certification. Upon visiting the mall with her mother she was approached by a scout who offered her a chance to model in New York. Swisten was unable to accept the offer, however instead got her mother to take pictures of her. Eventually she was able to move to New York to attend a drama school at the University of Virginia. Whilst she could have pursued a career in medicine and science, she couldn't see herself “wearing a labcoat somewhere”. Swisten also did an apprenticeship as a designer, and received a degree in interior design. She additionally possesses a license for interior design.
