Actors Struggles Are Real

Actors Struggles: It may look from the outside like being an actor is a cool life. But behind the scenes, many actors struggles encompass financial and mental health challenges, along with a lack of support. In this blog post, we look into the actors struggles we face. From managing finances to other difficulties we confront. We bring insights from the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). Moreover, we explore practical tips and suggestions to help actors navigate the industry while pursuing their dreams.

[Read Also: The Emotional Toll of Being an Undervalued Actor]

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Caption: @thelukecook on TikTok

Actors Struggles are Complex

Acting Gig Economy

First and foremost, many actors work in a freelance or gig-based model. The stability of a consistent paycheck or employee benefits is the first challenge. The gig-based nature of acting work often leads to irregular income, making it challenging for actors to predict and budget for expenses.

Income Disparities

Moreover, SAG-AFTRA reports indicate that while some actors achieve financial success, a significant percentage struggle to make ends meet. Only a small fraction of actors land high-paying roles, leaving the majority relying on sporadic, lower-paying gigs.

Unpredictable Work Patterns

Furthermore, the nature of the industry results in unpredictable work patterns. Actors may experience periods of intense activity followed by prolonged periods of unemployment. This inconsistency makes it difficult to establish financial stability and plan for the future.

[Read also: What To Do When You Don’t Get Paid]

Actors Struggles With Mental Health

The Reality Check

In addition to financial challenges, actors face the high costs of pursuing their dreams. Expenses such as:

• acting classes,
• headshots, and
• audition fees…

…contribute to the substantial financial investment required before an actor even lands a paying gig. The pressure to maintain a certain image and invest in self-promotion adds to the financial strain, affecting anyone’s mental health with stress and self-questioning. Actors invest time and money in an uncertain career, which leaves us wondering:

• Is the investment going to bring a valuable return?
• Are the sacrifices worth it?
• Am I even right for this (imposter syndrome)?

In the end, the financial challenges add to the mental health challenges, creating common struggles for actors.

Union Challenges

Joining SAG-AFTRA, a crucial step for professional actors, comes with its expenses, including initiation fees and ongoing membership dues. While union membership provides valuable benefits, the associated costs can be a burden for those starting in the industry.

Joining the union is a double-edged sword. While it adds a vanity item to your resume (professional validation), it may significantly reduce the amount of work you can find because now you can only work on union projects. That is another challenge that can add to the mental stress and anxiety of an acting career.

[Read also: SAG-AFTRA: When Should You Join?]

Strategies for Survival

Create a Budget

To navigate these challenges, establishing a realistic budget that accounts for both fixed and variable expenses is crucial. Knowing your financial baseline is the first step to financial stability. Factor in irregular income by creating a safety net for periods of unemployment.

Multiple Income Streams

Diversifying income sources becomes crucial. Apart from acting gigs, consider taking up side jobs or freelance work that aligns with your skills and schedule. Developing skills that complement your acting career, can provide additional income, such as:

• voiceover work, 
• teaching acting classes, or
• writing.

Savings and Emergency Fund

Consistent saving, even during periods of plenty, is essential. Having an emergency fund can help buffer financial challenges during dry spells. Aim to save a percentage of each paycheck and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Financial Literacy

In addition to financial matters, educating oneself on mental health is equally crucial. Understanding finances is essential for long-term financial and mental well-being, including:

• tax implications,
• investment options, and
• retirement planning.

Consider seeking advice from financial and mental health professionals who specialize in working with artists and performers.

Take Care of Yourself

Slow down, take breaks, and turn down some work. Don’t succumb to pressures, guilt, or other people’s expectations. You are human and your choices are yours to make. You chose this path because of its joy. Whenever that joy is gone, it’s time to:

• take a break,
• reassess your career, and
• make new strategic plans.

[Read also: 11 Acting-Related Things Actors on Hiatus Can Do]

Supporting Actors

If you are an actor’s support system, we have tips for you, too.

Patronize the Arts

Attending:

• local theater productions,
• independent film screenings, and
• other live performances…

…is not just about supporting the arts community; it also contributes to the mental well-being of actors. Encouraging friends and family to participate in the cultural scene fosters a vibrant artistic ecosystem.

Advocate for Fair Pay

Acknowledging the value of the arts and advocating for fair compensation for actors is a crucial step toward positive change. Recognizing both the financial and mental health challenges they face is necessary. Supporting initiatives and organizations that promote fair pay and working conditions for actors can make a significant impact.

Invest in Education

It is vital to support organizations that provide:

• affordable acting classes,
• credible workshops, and
• resources for actors.

Access to quality education can make a significant difference in an actor’s career trajectory. Mentorship programs and scholarships can also play a vital role in fostering the next generation of talented performers.

[Read also: 4 Ways Actors Feel Unsupported]

Conclusion

While the nature of entertainment may overshadow actors struggles, it’s important to acknowledge the reality behind the scenes. By understanding the challenges and supporting the arts, we contribute to the well-being of those who bring stories to life on the big and small screens. Aspiring actors, armed with:

financial literacy,

mental health awareness, and

strategic planning,…

…can navigate the tumultuous waters of the entertainment industry and pursue their dreams with resilience and determination. The struggle is indeed real, but with the right support and mindset, actors can find their way to success without sacrificing their financial and mental well-being.

[Read also: 6 Reasons to Never Pay to Be in a Talent Showcase]

How to support us

At Teacup of Wisdom, we share knowledge and insights about the entertainment industry from the actor’s point of view to inspire and empower your acting journey.