Molly Tarlov
Molly Tarlov is an American actress best known for her role as Sadie Saxton in Awkward. Learn about her early life, acting career, personal journey, and memorable performances.
Introduction
Molly Tarlov is an American actress whose name many recognize from MTV’s hit series Awkward. Though she is sometimes mis-cited as born in 1987, reliable sources show she was born on September 12, 1992 (not 1987) in Manhattan, New York. Over the years, Tarlov has blended vulnerability, sharp wit, and comedic timing in her roles to earn a dedicated fan base.
In this article, we explore her background, her path into acting, major roles, personal life, and the characteristics that define her craft.
Early Life and Family
Molly Elizabeth Tarlov was born and raised in Manhattan, New York City. Mark Tarlov, a producer, director, attorney, and winemaker, and Judith Roberts (sometimes cited as “Judy Roberts”).
On her mother's side, both of her maternal grandparents were Jewish immigrants — her grandfather from Russia, and her grandmother fled Europe before World War II. Jessica Tarlov, a political strategist and media commentator.
From a young age, Molly showed interest in performance: as a child she appeared in the musical Bye Bye Birdie at the Little Red School House. Interlochen Center for the Arts and a NYU summer program in Paris.
Youth, Education & Training
Molly completed her collegiate studies at Bennington College, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts in 2008.
After college, she developed her craft further by training with theatrical institutions: she attended the Atlantic Theater Company and LAByrinth Theater Company, participating in writing and acting, including in the LAByrinth Master Class.
Career and Major Roles
Entry into Film & Television
Molly’s first film credit traces back to 1999 in Simply Irresistible, a movie directed by her father. After a gap, she reemerged in television:
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In 2009, she appeared in an episode of iCarly as “Lisa.”
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In 2010, she played Caitlin on the ABC Family show Huge.
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She also had a small role in Gravity (TV) as a “customer.”
Breakthrough: Awkward
Molly’s signature role came in 2011 when she was cast as Sadie Saxton in the MTV original series Awkward.
Sadie Saxton was portrayed as a mean-girl archetype with sharp wit and biting comments, often followed by her signature catchphrase, “You’re welcome!” Her character also wrestled with insecurities about appearance, relationships, and identity, making her both memorable and somewhat complex.
The role cemented Molly’s visibility in teen and young adult television culture and made her a recognizable face among the MTV audience.
Other Film & TV Projects
Beyond Awkward, Molly has appeared in various film and TV roles:
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Films: G.B.F. (2013) as Sophie
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Short / indie projects: Era Apocrypha (short)
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Later projects: Everlasting (2016), Haunting on Fraternity Row (2018)
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Television guest or ensemble roles: Nasty Habits, On Hiatus with Monty Geer, No, That’s Okay. I’m Good. etc.
She also appeared in music videos such as Eden xo’s “The Weekend”.
Personal Life & Milestones
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On June 23, 2015, Molly announced her engagement to Alexander Noyes, a drummer and former member of bands such as Honor Society and Jonas Brothers.
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The couple married on March 4, 2017 (some sources list March 5) in Palm Springs.
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In August 2020, they welcomed their first child, a son.
Her father, Mark Tarlov, passed away on July 31, 2021 after battling cancer.
Though Molly has a public presence, she tends not to court sensationalism; she shares personal updates thoughtfully and remains mostly known for her professional roles.
Personality, Style & Artistic Strengths
Molly Tarlov’s presence onscreen is marked by:
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Excellent comedic timing and delivery of sharp lines
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The ability to balance edge with vulnerability, especially when portraying characters who hide insecurities behind bravado
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A natural flair for roles that require a mix of sarcasm, emotional depth, or conflict
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A grounded approach — she trained in theater and writing, which often reflects in more subtle interpretations rather than over-the-top performances
She also shows versatility by working across both television and film, from larger ensemble shows to indie or genre projects.
Notable Quotes / Memorable Lines
While Molly Tarlov is not as known for public quotes or speeches as an author or speaker might be, certain lines from her portrayal of Sadie Saxton have become iconic for fans:
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“You’re welcome!” — Sadie’s signature line after a biting remark or insult.
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Her lines often combine humor and unfiltered honesty about social dynamics, insecurities, and teenage life.
Because her public persona is largely tied to her roles, few interviews or public quotes stand out widely — most recognition is for her characters’ dialogue.
Lessons & Takeaways from Molly Tarlov’s Journey
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Embrace layered characters
Even roles that seem “mean” or antagonistic can resonate deeply when given dimension and emotional truths. -
Ground your craft in training
Molly’s academic and theater training gave her tools to adapt and sustain a career over time, not just chase spotlight moments. -
Balance public & private life
She has managed to build visibility without surrendering all personal narrative — keeping a degree of boundaries. -
Evolve with the industry
From teen cable shows to indie films and genre work, flexibility and willingness to try different roles help maintain relevance. -
Let influence be in character, not image
Her impact often comes through how she portrays struggles rather than how she presents off-screen.
Conclusion
Molly Tarlov may not be a household name for all, but within the realm of youth and teen television, she made a lasting impression with Awkward and her performance as Sadie Saxton. With theater roots, disciplined training, and a grounded approach to her career, she continues to carve out a space that balances comedic bite and emotional honesty.