Born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, Tynes began her career in the mid-2000s with guest spots on hit series like Smallville and Supernatural . However, it was her role as the bubbly and ambitious Sabrina on the CW’s The L.A. Complex (2012) that gave her real traction. The show, a gritty drama about young adults navigating the entertainment industry, allowed Tynes to show her range beyond the "best friend" archetype.