Q&A: Is it Too Late to Start an Acting Career?

Thrifty Fun

March 11, 2010


The Question
"Is it too late to start an acting career at my age? I am trying to build my name quickly so my children who are as much interested in entertaining, have a foundation to stand on, as well. I know I will do well, I just need to know "how to" when the only experience I have is with shows and events that I played in as small characters/parts that were for the purpose of work training. I have had great comments on my performances."
By crystalpearl from Houston, TX


Some Answers 
By Top 10 Film Schools 05/05/2011
It's never too late, but there are a lot of factors involved. Hollywood is very fickle and there are never any guarantees whether you are Tom Cruise or just starting out. You are always going to be fighting for that next job. If you have the stomach for not having any type of security whatsoever in your career choice, them go for it. It is not like getting a job at IBM. You will be looking for your next job for the rest or your life. It's tough, but can be rewarding.


By MichelleTina 04/20/2010
It is not late! I am talented for music and I know that no matter when you start, if you have talent your gonna be someone! Keep on following your dreams.:)


 By witchwood 03/07/2010
Hmm... A little difficult as you didn't state what 'my age' is! Depends on what you are looking for.. big star, theatre tv, film. However I will tell you that I didn't start my acting career till I was sixty! I'm a writer, many poems and stories published, but then I saw an opportunity to get into local theatre something I'd always wanted to try, and since then have been in several different plays and I love it! This is not big money, sometimes no money, but oh, the joy, the fun, the audience appreciation. Try if you can.


By JustPlainJo 03/07/2010
Mrs.Story has a good point, but it's probably moot anyway. Who cares how old you are?
In spite of Hollywood, actors of all ages are needed. If you're in the right place at the right time, especially if you have "the look" the director wants, you'll get the part. And even extras make scale. Remember, Grandma Moses was 80 when she took up painting!


By mimijean 03/07/2010
Never! Look for local opportunities first in theatre. Consider taking a class at a community college as they will do doubt have performances they do for the public. Also, consider going to a local agency (not the kind that rip you off - beware of those) and see how to put together a "book" - it would consist of head shots of you. In the dallas areas where I live, it is the Kim Dawson agency. Good luck.


By foxrun41 03/07/2010
It is never too late to start any endeavor. Good luck.


By Suntydt 03/05/2010
I knew a guy that was in his 50's and was auditioning for parts as basically a background character. You know, someone needed in the scene but not as a main or secondary character.


By mrs.story 03/05/2010
Hard to say. You didn't mention your age.


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