Acting With Visible Scars

Dear Ms. Wisdom,

I have visible scars from a hard chapter in my life — some on my arm, some on my legs. Acting is where I finally feel whole, but I worry these scars will hold me back from getting roles. Should I have them removed?

— Visibly Scarred Actor

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[Read also: Actors Struggles Are 100% Real | Teacup of Wisdom]

Dear Visibly Scarred Actor

No scar has ever stopped a true actor from being cast — only fear has.

Scars tell a story, and storytelling is the essence of what you do. If someone in the room cannot see past them, that says more about their limits than yours. In most cases, they will be covered with makeup or wardrobe. Film is generous with angles, and most casting directors care about whether you can tell the truth in front of a camera, not the surface of your skin.

A casting director once told me: every visible mark on an actor is a reminder that they have lived. And lived experience is the only real training that cannot be taught.

You may hear people say “cover them up” or “fix them,” but here is the real rule: take care of yourself first. If the scars make you uncomfortable, use makeup. If they make you proud, wear short sleeves. Acting with integrity means knowing what version of yourself you want to bring into the room.

You are not broken. You are textured. And texture is where truth lives.

— Teacup

☕ Have a question? Pour it into tea@teacupofwisdom.com

[Read also: Shocking Proof That Casting Breakdowns Are Not Discriminating Against You | Teacup of Wisdom]

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