Charles EstherAmber Kelleher-Andrews, renowned celebrity matchmaker and co-founder of Kelleher International, tragically passed away on April 13, 2025, at the age of 56 after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Kelleher-Andrews, who was a household name in the world of matchmaking, helped shape the relationships of many high-profile clients, including celebrities, Fortune 500 CEOs, and even members of the British royal family.
Her death marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned over two decades.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Amber Kelleher-Andrews, born Amber Van Lent on March 31, 1969, in California, initially pursued a career in entertainment.
She worked as a model and actress under the name Amber Van Lent. She appeared in several films, including Bloodsport III, Mind Rage, and Lying Eyes.
Additionally, she had notable television roles on popular shows such as Baywatch, Melrose Place, and Nash Bridges.
However, her career took a significant turn when she joined her mother’s matchmaking business, Kelleher International, in 1997.
Transition to Matchmaking and Success at Kelleher International
Kelleher-Andrews soon made her mark in the matchmaking industry, helping to grow Kelleher International into one of the largest and most prestigious matchmaking firms in the United States.
As CEO of the Los Angeles office, she worked with an elite clientele, pairing successful individuals across various fields with potential partners who shared their values and interests.
Her roster of clients included some of the world’s most influential individuals, from business moguls to Hollywood celebrities.
Under her leadership, Kelleher International expanded its services, offering personalized matchmaking tailored to the needs of high-net-worth individuals.
Kelleher-Andrews became known for her commitment to ensuring lasting and meaningful connections, combining intuition, strategy, and a deep understanding of human behavior in her matchmaking approach.
Television Career and Role in Ready for Love
Kelleher-Andrews gained wider recognition in 2013 when she appeared as a matchmaker on NBC’s reality dating series Ready for Love, produced by actress Eva Longoria.
The show featured three bachelors searching for love, and Kelleher-Andrews was one of the expert matchmakers tasked with finding their ideal partners.
Her involvement in the show brought her expertise in relationship-building to a broader audience, showcasing her ability to guide individuals in love through a mix of chemistry and compatibility.
In addition to Ready for Love, Kelleher-Andrews made appearances on several other television programs, including Good Morning America, The Today Show, and 20/20. She also hosted a popular radio talk show called The Rules of Engagement on KFWB News Talk 980, where she shared her insights on love, relationships, and human connection.
Personal Life and Final Battle with Cancer
Kelleher-Andrews’ personal life was marked by her dedication to both her family and her career.
She was married to her husband, Nico, for 25 years, and together they had three children.
Despite her intense work schedule, Amber always emphasized the importance of maintaining strong, supportive relationships both professionally and personally.
Kelleher-Andrews was diagnosed with Stage 4 ovarian cancer in 2017.
Though she initially went into remission, the disease aggressively returned in the following years.
Throughout her illness, she continued to remain active in her professional life, even as she fought her personal battle with cancer.
Her resilience and strength inspired those around her, and she continued to advocate for love and relationships, believing in their power to heal and connect.
Legacy and Impact on the Matchmaking Industry
Amber Kelleher-Andrews’ contributions to the matchmaking industry have left an indelible mark.
As one of the most prominent matchmakers in the world, she played a pivotal role in reshaping the industry, particularly in the world of high-profile matchmaking.
Her work with some of the most successful and influential individuals set a new standard for personalized matchmaking, one rooted in authenticity and genuine connection.
Her death leaves a void in the industry, but her legacy will undoubtedly continue through her work, her company, and the lives she touched.
Many of her colleagues and clients have expressed their deep admiration for her, noting that she was more than just a matchmaker—she was a trusted confidant, a source of guidance, and a beacon of hope for those seeking love.
Remembering Amber Kelleher-Andrews
Kelleher-Andrews’ final post on Instagram, shared on April 3, 2025, read, “Love is the most powerful force in the universe.
💖 It’s not just about romantic love—it’s the connection we share with everyone around us.
The bonds we create, the energy we exchange, and the way we… Let’s continue to nurture those connections.”
Amber Kelleher-Andrews is survived by her husband Nico and their three children.
A celebration of life will be held in her honor, and her final resting place will be in Hanalei, Hawaii, where she had always found peace and tranquility.
Her work and memory will live on, continuing to inspire others in their quest for love and connection.
Conclusion
Amber Kelleher-Andrews was not just a matchmaker; she was a champion for love and connection, guiding countless individuals toward lasting relationships.
Her expertise, passion, and commitment to her clients will forever be remembered.
Though her passing marks the end of a chapter, her impact on the world of matchmaking and her clients will continue for years to come.
