Industry Topics Blog Posts

Krysten Ritter, who had a negative acting school experience.
Jul 12, 2023

Krysten Ritter and Gillian Jacobs’ Negative Acting School Experiences

As actors dedicate themselves to studying the craft of acting, it’s important to note that not all classes are the best match for everyone. What may feel like a supportive learning environment for some aspiring actors may feel like just… Read More

A bearded casting director calling over an actor from the bench.
Jun 21, 2023

Casting Directors Discuss How Talent is Selected

In television and film casting, the decision of selecting an actor for a role typically rests with the production team, which includes the director, casting director, the producers and executive producers. While the casting process can be complex and involve… Read More

Actors on stage performing a play. One recites a monologues, others sit in silence.
Jun 13, 2023

The Actor’s Job: Shining a Light on the Human Spirit

Every person has a story, and despite knowing this, there are moments when we may feel alone in our struggles as we navigate through our daily lives. But when we go to the theater, turn on the TV or watch… Read More

Actress Lupita Nyong'o smiling and striking a pose on the red carpet.
Jun 6, 2023

The Power of the Actor’s Giving Frame of Mind

Acting requires a deep emotional investment from the actor, which emerges from a profound commitment to the craft, plus collaboration with others to achieve a creative vision. It is a form of artistic expression that goes beyond rational calculations and… Read More

Twilight Actor Taylor Lautner in a suit and tie at an event smiling.
Jun 5, 2023

Should Actors Read Social Media Comments About Themselves?

Twilight star Taylor Lautner recently had a rude awakening when he checked his social media after an outing and saw a number of negative comments about him “not aging well.” In response, the actor posted a video where he said,… Read More

A group of actors on a casting call sitting next to a cartoon robot, also waiting to be called.
May 22, 2023

AI’s Impact on Actors

Artificial intelligence is rapidly and continually evolving, and is now widely available across the globe. The widespread and accelerated distribution of this technology is sure to impact various sectors, including the entertainment industry. With the world poised for significant change,… Read More

3 Actors Who Stumbled Into Acting
Nov 30, 2022

3 Actors Who Stumbled Into Acting

In most instances, actors on stage and screen spend many years cultivating their craft and industry relationships, making sacrifices and going on countless auditions in pursuit of acting work. However, there are some relatively rare instances in which people, by… Read More

Competing as an Actor
Aug 5, 2024

How Competitive is the Acting Industry?

The acting industry is exciting, fun and rewarding for performers. It’s also a competitive industry. When auditioning, you compete with a seemingly endless sea of thespians for the same role. Some actors find it daunting. Others revel in competition. You… Read More

Jan 3, 2022

Actors on Directors’ Notes

If a film or TV show is excellent in all aspects — great script, fantastic sets and costumes, breathtaking lighting and music — but the performances are subpar, the production will only go so far. The quality of acting is… Read More

Dec 15, 2021

Now That’s a Generous Scene Partner

What makes a great scene partner? Great scene partners are dedicated to the craft and come prepared. They bring enthusiasm for the project, communicate well, and actively listen. These actors know when it’s time to shine and when to let… Read More

Nov 29, 2021

9 Qualities of Confident Actors

Casting directors consistently rank confidence as one of the most important attributes that a performer can exhibit in the audition room. Confident actors showcase authenticity and ease in their words, movements, and actions. Ultimately, confidence leads to more booked jobs… Read More

Sarah Finn attends 34th Annual Casting Society of America's Artios Awards.
Apr 2, 2025

Casting Directors Discuss Why There Are No Small Parts in Acting

Konstantin Stanislavski once said, “There are no small roles, only small players.” In a SAG-AFTRA Q&A, acclaimed casting directors were asked if it’s true that there are no small parts. Here are their responses. Ellen Lewis, The Queen’s Gambit   Ellen… Read More

Actors on Stage Fright
Sep 5, 2021

Actors on Stage Fright

Stage fright can strike a passionate aspiring actor or an acting veteran with many accolades. But, alas, performance jitters need not stop an actor from engaging at a high level. Here are three celebrated actors who overcame stage fright:  … Read More

Oct 16, 2024

8 Actors Describe Their Biggest Career Risks

Sir Ben Kingsley once said, “As an actor, there’s no autonomy unless you’re prepared to risk the possibility of starving.” Performers put their careers on the line with each character they portray, but some of their gutsiest moves are pivotal… Read More

Mar 12, 2021

10 Podcasts Every Actor Should Subscribe to

Listening is considered one of the greatest skills an actor can master. When we are truly listening, we are surrendering our full attention to a stimulus and allowing it to affect us. For this reason, podcasts are a wonderful resource… Read More