01 Feb The Acting Industry is a Rollercoaster
What does an acting career and a rollercoaster have in common? They both have their ups and downs, and some of these ascents and descents can be extremely rapid in nature. An actor can be in the business for years, before suddenly becoming an ‘overnight success.’ Likewise, an actor with a recurring role on a sitcom, soap opera, or movie franchise, can fall off the face of the earth, never to be heard from again.
The Unseen Challenges Actors Face in the Industry
There can be two main reasons for this ‘amusement park ride.’ The first has to do with an industry that is unpredictable at best. A film actor may be told at the wrap party that they have the best scene in the movie, only to find themselves on the cutting room floor because of a plot change. A commercial actor is so impressive in one TV ad, that the sponsor wants to hire them as a spokesperson…and then a commercial actor’s strike ends that negotiation. An actor with blonde hair gives a great audition, but the producer wants a brunette. There are so many factors that an actor cannot control no matter how hard they try.
The second reason has to do with the personal fortunes of each individual actor. One may experience a period of inaction, or personal struggles followed by an abundance of opportunity. A successful commercial career may end when the actor ages out of being a young parent, or begin when they reach middle age. Another actor becomes so associated with a certain role, that when that ends, no one will hire them for anything else.
Robert Downey Jr.'s Remarkable Comeback to Hollywood Screen
Every actor, regardless of their fame, experiences these ups and downs throughout their acting careers. Consider the journey of Robert Downey Jr., whose career took a dramatic turn after overcoming personal challenges. Known for his iconic portrayal of Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Downey went through a period of professional struggle and personal setbacks. However, his determination and talent eventually catapulted him back into the spotlight, marking one of the most remarkable comebacks in Hollywood history. Here is a Business Insider’s article, “19 Celebrities Who Made Victorious Career Comebacks,” showcasing that even the most challenging lows can lead to incredible highs with determination and resilience.
The Actor's Rollercoaster: Turning the Adventure into a Fulfilling Journey
Think of your acting journey as a crazy adventure. Yes, it’s a rollercoaster, but with the right attitude, it can be more fun than frustrating. The best an actor can do about these ups and downs, is to develop a consistent attitude that can act as a ‘shock absorber.’ Celebrate small victories and milestones, recognizing that success in this field is often a series of gradual steps. Continuous learning and skill development provide a sense of empowerment, making each actor better equipped to face the challenges. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination, and maintaining one’s balance, a sense of humor, and a belief in one’s self can turn the rollercoaster ride into a fulfilling and rewarding adventure instead of an ordeal.