Val Emmich

Val Emmich is a writer, singer-songwriter, and actor whose work spans literature, music, and television. Emmich has established a career across multiple creative fields. At age 15, he was diagnosed with Lyme disease and, during his recovery, learned to play the guitar and began writing songs. This period marked the beginning of his journey in the arts.

As a singer-songwriter, Emmich has released more than a dozen albums over a career spanning more than two decades. In addition to recording, he has toured with artists including Gavin DeGraw, Better Than Ezra, Dashboard Confessional, and Butch Walker. His discography includes albums such as "Here Comes the Dark" and "Asleep in Your Clothes." Emmich's work has been noted by publications such as Vanity Fair and the Star-Ledger for its emotional resonance and connection to New Jersey's music scene.

In television and film, Emmich has held recurring roles on HBO's "Vinyl," Showtime's "The Big C," and ABC's "Ugly Betty" and "Cashmere Mafia." He appeared as Jamie on NBC's "30 Rock" and played the lead in the independent film "Fighting Fish."

In literature, Emmich co-authored "Dear Evan Hansen: The Novel," which became a New York Times bestseller and appeared on the Young Adult Hardcover list. The novel explores themes of grief, isolation, and social anxiety, expanding on the stage musical's narrative. His debut novel, "The Reminders," was selected for the Barnes & Noble Discover New Writers program, and his novel "Maybe We're Electric" further established his presence in contemporary fiction. Across music, acting, and writing, Emmich's work is unified by a focus on authentic storytelling and emotional depth.