How to Make it As an Actor in TV and Film

The single most asked question at any personal appearance I made when acting on a soap opera was "How can I become an actor?" If there was an easy answer and I had it, I would have been happy to share, but all I knew was based on my own experience and Star Search wasn't even on the air anymore.

"Making it" as an actor is no doubt a long-shot bet, certainly not for the faint of heart. As a matter of fact, I routinely try to talk to anyone, young or old, male or female, out of even trying. My theory is that if they can be talked out of it, they would never have made it and I will have saved them from having it (desire for acting) beaten out of them at a later date.

Statistically speaking, I believe you have a better chance of being hit my lightning than becoming a TV or film star, but the latter is more rewarding if not less painful. However, having said all that, there are things one can do to tip the odds in one's favor. The following "tips" are my own opinion and are not intended to be relied upon as a guarantee (it should go without saying, but I'll say it anyway).

1. Start your training as young as possible. Utilize your school years, and yes, absolutely go to and finish college to prepare, prepare, prepare. Be a student, not of acting, but of living, being, doing everything and anything you have the opportunity to experience. Study music - learn to play instruments, take voice lessons (even if you can't sing, at least they can teach you how to breathe). Take dance lessons - any style, every style you can. Study martial arts - learn to master your body and your mind at every opportunity. The list of things I would suggest learning is as long as you can imagine if it is not done carelessly or recklessly. Try, learn, and become a master if you can.

There will be many things that not everyone is physically able to do, and acting is not all about physicality, but many times it is and anything you can do that "the other guy" can't gives you the edge. The main point is that everything you experience adds to the depth of who you are as a student of life and human nature. Observation is a key element of acting and you have to be out there living life and learning new things to become a keen observer.

Remember, people would always rather watch an interesting person than an actor pretending to be an interesting person. There is definitely a craft to acting and one that should be cultivated and practiced to be effective but having that depth of experience will always benefit the study and execution of acting.

2. Study the art of acting from the best and most qualified people you can find and afford. My caveat here is not to get too ingrained in one and only one technique; try as many as you can. Pick and choose from each what works best for you. By "what works best" I mean whatever feels most natural to you and leads to the most natural performance. A technique that works for you is key because when you get that opportunity, that audition, that "big break", you want to be able to turn it on like a switch and be able to turn do it take after take after take.

Here is a list of authors that I recommend for Acting technique: Konstantin Stanislavsky, Stanford Meisner, Stella Adler, Richard Boleslavky, Uta Hagen, Robert Lewis. Also, study the classics (there is a reason they are classics). A few of my favorite Playwrights: Arthur Miller, Anton Chekov, Tennessee Williams, Eugene O'Neill, William Inge, Clifford Odets, Joe Orton, Harold Pinter

3. If you don't currently reside in L.A. or N.Y., move there when you can. The good news is that both L.A. and N.Y. are exciting places to live with more opportunities for actors to succeed than anywhere in the world. The bad news is that these are two of the most expensive cities to live in. To get a sense of just how expensive to rent a room or apartment is, I suggest going on www.craigslist.com to research what's out there. Craig's list is also a terrific resource for employment opportunities.

Most of you will not have the advantage of winning a $100,000 prize to tide you over while you're waiting for your big break. The usual waiter/bartender jobs are always out there, but they are not what I would suggest as your best bets. The entertainment industry is a tight community where everyone knows everyone's business and, like all tight groups, it is tough to break into. As an aspiring actor, you will be like one of a billion sperm hoping to penetrate an egg (exaggeration, sort of). To increase your odds of "penetrating" I suggest looking for work at a network, studio, agency or casting office. Pretend you're adamantly opposed to becoming an actor, succumb only to persistent pressure.

You may be spotted at the Starbucks on Melrose and become the next Hollywood hot property the day you arrive in L.A., but don't count on that and don't gamble with your future. Be smart and commit to the long haul. That's your best chance for success.

Finally, remember that, as an actor, what you have to offer is - YOU. Love, nurture, develop and protect YOU. Find what works for you, find people to align yourself with who believe in you and are dedicated to protecting that essence.

I truly love the craft of acting and have incredible respect for those who are willing to put themselves out there in pursuit of their dream. I wish you all the best and will assist you more helpful hints to come - headshot advice, finding an agent, etc.

"Break a leg!"

Scott Thompson Baker