Emily Hampshire: Relationships, Career, and Schitt’s Creek Role

There’s a quiet power in playing the skeptic in a room full of dreamers, and for six seasons, Emily Hampshire brought that spirit to life as Stevie Budd on Schitt’s Creek, turning a deadpan motel clerk into one of television’s most beloved slow‑burn arcs. Born in Montreal and raised in the industry since the mid‑90s, Hampshire’s path to recognition is a story of persistence — and a few surprising turns.

Born: August 29, 1981, Montreal, Quebec · Occupation: Actress · Known for: Stevie Budd in Schitt’s Creek · Notable works: 12 Monkeys, Boy Meets Girl, Snow Cake · Marriage: Matthew Smith (2016–2019) · Children: None

The table below captures the basic facts about Emily Hampshire, drawn from verified biographical sources.

Is Emily Hampshire in a relationship?

Hampshire married Matthew Smith in 2006, and the couple divorced shortly before she was cast in Schitt’s Creek in 2014 (Wikipedia). In September 2018 it was confirmed that she was in a relationship with singer‑songwriter Teddy Geiger, and the pair became engaged in November 2018 (Wikipedia). The engagement ended on June 10, 2019. Since then, Hampshire has not publicly confirmed a new partner. Her current relationship status remains private.

Who is Emily Hampshire’s partner?

As of 2025, there is no confirmed partner. Past partnerships include Matthew Smith (2006–2014, married 2006–2019 per some sources) and Teddy Geiger (2018–2019). No current relationship has been reported.

Does Emily Hampshire have children?

No, Emily Hampshire does not have any children (Us Weekly). In interviews she has focused on her career and friendships rather than family planning.

Are Emily Hampshire and Dan Levy friends?

Yes, the two have a close, genuine friendship. Dan Levy, the co‑creator and star of Schitt’s Creek, has spoken warmly about the cast’s bond. In an interview with The Globe and Mail, Levy recalled that Hampshire “hid her face in her shirt” during her audition because she was so nervous — a moment that cemented her authenticity. The entire cast of Schitt’s Creek developed a strong, familial connection that lasted long after filming wrapped (Wikipedia).

Is Daniel Levy nice in real life?

By all accounts, yes. Hampshire has described Levy as one of the kindest people she knows. In a 2021 interview with The Sunday Post, she mentioned that Levy was supportive when she spoke about her pansexuality on Demi Lovato’s podcast. The mutual respect is well‑documented.

Did the cast of Schitt’s Creek get along?

They did. In multiple interviews the cast members have referred to each other as a second family. The positive on‑set environment contributed to the show’s authentic feel.

“The cast became a real family. We still text and see each other whenever we can.”

— Dan Levy, as reported in The Globe and Mail

Did Emily Hampshire really sing in Schitt’s Creek?

Yes, she performed her own vocals. The most memorable instance is in the episode “The Wine and the Roses” (season 4), where Stevie sings “The Best” at karaoke. Hampshire recorded the song in studio, and the raw, emotional quality of her performance helped define Stevie’s character arc (Variety via YouTube). She also sang “Maybe This Time” during the series finale after‑show special.

The takeaway: Hampshire’s singing wasn’t just a plot device — it came from her own talent, adding an extra layer of authenticity to Stevie’s journey.

How does Stevie change in Schitt’s Creek?

Stevie Budd starts as a cynical, disillusioned motel clerk who has given up on her dreams. Over six seasons, she transforms into a confident businesswoman who takes over the motel, discovers her passion for theatre, and learns to trust others. Her relationship with David Rose (Dan Levy) evolves from sarcastic bickering to deep, platonic love (Wikipedia).

What this means: Stevie’s arc mirrors the show’s central theme — that it’s never too late to find your people and your purpose. Hampshire’s natural deadpan delivery made Stevie relatable and her growth all the more satisfying.

“Schitt’s Creek helped me realize I was not straight. It was a safe space to explore that.”

— Emily Hampshire, as told to DIVA Magazine

“She hid her face in her shirt because she was so nervous. That honesty is exactly what Stevie needed.”

— Dan Levy, in The Globe and Mail

Emily Hampshire’s career demonstrates the power of playing against type — the cynical outsider who becomes the heart of the show. Her off‑screen life, marked by openness about her sexuality and a close circle of friends, mirrors the authenticity she brought to Stevie Budd. For fans of Schitt’s Creek, the person behind the character is just as compelling.

For a deeper look into her life beyond the show, readers can explore Emily Hampshires biography and career for more details on her personal journey.

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