The Entire Acting Business is Changing
The Shift in the Acting Industry
The acting business is undergoing a seismic shift. As Joseph Pearlman recently pointed out:
“The truth is, nobody’s waiting around to ‘discover’ anyone anymore—it’s not 1995. The industry’s power players—executive producers, networks, and production companies—are looking for actors who are already operating at an Olympic level and know how to build real relationships. Tapes don’t get you discovered; connections and bravery do. The gatekeepers are gone. It’s time to rewrite the rules.”
This statement perfectly encapsulates the evolution of our industry. Gone are the days when actors relied solely on auditions, agents, or the faint hope of being “discovered.” Today’s actors must embrace the role of CEO in their own careers, actively crafting opportunities and building relationships that lead to success.
Why This Message Resonates with Me
Back in 2016, I wrote Rule Breakers: Changing the Way Actors Do Business because I knew the old ways of doing things were holding actors back. At the time, I felt like a lone voice shouting into the void, encouraging actors to step into their power and take control of their careers. But now, as more industry leaders like Joseph Pearlman echo this message, it’s clear: the rules have officially changed.
Actors no longer need to wait for permission to succeed. The tools for building a lucrative acting career are at our fingertips. Whether it’s through vertical content, user-generated content (UGC), social media, or audiobooks, there are more ways than ever to make money and stay relevant in the acting world—without an agent.
New Rules of the Acting Business
Let’s break down the key elements of this transformation:
1.The Importance of Search Engine Optimization (SEO):
In today’s world, if I Google your name and nothing shows up, it’s a red flag. Casting decisions are moving toward automation, and searchability is critical. You need an IMDb page, a professional website, and a strong online presence. When casting becomes AI-driven, the actors who show up in searches will get the opportunities.
2. Social Media is Non-Negotiable:
Social media isn’t just for influencers—it’s now a cornerstone of how the acting business operates. Writers, directors, and producers are on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. If you’re not active, engaging, and showcasing your brand, you’re missing out on direct lines of communication with industry decision-makers.
3. New Revenue Streams:
Vertical content, UGC, and audiobooks are no longer “side hustles.” They’re legitimate income streams for actors. These platforms allow you to showcase your talent directly to an audience—and get paid for it. The industry is moving faster than ever, and actors who adapt to these opportunities will thrive.
4. Go Direct to the Decision-Makers:
Forget waiting on casting directors. Go straight to the source: producers, directors, and writers. Relationships are built by reaching out, following up, and proving your worth. The gatekeepers of the past have less power than ever before, and the sooner actors realize this, the better.
My Speech at Actors Pro Expo: The New Rules for Actors
I’ll be diving deep into these topics at the Actors Pro Expo. My goal is to equip actors with actionable steps to take control of their careers, build relationships, and make money without relying on outdated systems. The acting industry is evolving, and we must evolve with it.
Final Thoughts: Adapting to the Change
The acting world is no longer about fitting into the mold of “waiting to be discovered.” It’s about being proactive, innovative, and business-savvy. By embracing SEO, social media, new revenue streams, and direct relationships, actors can create their own opportunities—and their own success.
Are you ready to rewrite the rules? Let’s start building your empire today.
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