How to Become a Television or Film Actor

As an aspiring television or film actor, you have several options available to you.

You can, of course, seek to pursue any personal contacts who may be able to help you secure a role in an upcoming major motion picture or television production. Unfortunately, most actors starting out do not have such connections, and even if you do it may not lead to satisfying work.

The first step, then, is to understand how the film and television industry works. A familiarity with the companies and personalities behind Hollywood will be of great benefit, and will also help you on your journey. I highly recommend you read Shoot Out: Surviving the Fame and (Mis)fortune of Hollywood co-authored by legendary producers Peter Bart and Peter Guber (of Paramount and Columbia Pictures, respectively).

Hollywood writer and producer Sidney Sheldon's autobiography may also be a source of initial inspiration. Once you have some starting knowledge and a bit of motivation, you have several routes available to you:

Traditional representation -- You can go the "traditional" route and seek representation by a high-powered film agent. Send your professional headshots, resume, reel and any other supporting materials to the appropriate contact at the major agencies. Major Hollywood agencies include International Creative Management (ICM), CAA, United Talent Agency (UTA), and The William Morris Agency (WMA). If you cannot land representation with any of these industry heavyweights, there are numerous smaller agencies in Los Angeles and New York worth pursuing.

Reality television start -- You can make a name for yourself and gain nationwide exposure by starting off as a reality television contestant. This route can produce some money (around $5,000 to $10,000 is typical, plus appearance fees at night clubs) and acclaim, but it can be a double-edged sword: people may not respect you or may only remember you as "the girl from that one show" or "the crazy dude" on MTV. If you decide that reality TV is a worthwhile entry into the business, frequently browse MTV's Casting Call page and the New York Television/film/radio job listings page on Craigslist. Apply to positions that seem like a good fit. (Also peruse the Los Angeles Television/film/radio job listings page on Craigslist.)

Viral video -- You can make an initial splash by creating a controversial viral video that receives millions of views online. Dirty Little Secrets has several chapters on how to become famous this way, and you can also find a number of free resources online that explain how to increase the likelihood of your video going "viral". In general, content that is outrageous and unusual will go viral -- meaning it will spread quickly through online word-of-mouth, eventually landing you on major late-night TV shows such as ABC's Jimmy Kimmel LIVE (as was the case for viral video star Chris Crocker, the "Leave Britney Alone" creator).

Further acting training -- Actor's workshops and grad school can be an excellent place to hone your craft and network with others who can help you out, including aspiring filmmakers, other actors, and young agents looking for marketable talent. Well-known graduate programs such as NYU's Tisch School have trained many well-known actors and producers; if you aren't getting the sort of success you expect from your career, you may look into taking acting classes at a graduate program on a part-time basis. You can also find free or low cost acting workshops in most major cities.