The term ‘aspiring actor’ inaccurately labels dedicated performers, undermining their achievements. Discover the respectful, accurate definition that applies to nearly all actors.
Daydreamers aspire. Actors act.
‘Aspiring actor’ is a misnomer. It’s too often applied to describe Actors-In-Training, or Working Actors who aren’t famous (sometimes referred to as Journeymen Actors). ‘Aspire’ is defined by the Cambridge Dictionary as “to want something very much or hope.” Dictionary.com terms ‘aspire’ as being “eagerly desirous.” Actors can focus misguidedly on fame and celebrity status. They long for the glory without dedicating themselves to investing in the art of exemplary storytelling. Daydreamers aspire. Actors act.
‘Working Actor‘ – A career actor who is:
A) Currently employed as an actor.
And/or
B) Between the completion and start of contracted employment as an actor.
And/or
C) Actively seeking their next employment as an actor.
Using ‘aspiring actor’ to describe dedicated Working Actors and Actors-In-Training diminishes their achievements and commitment. Acting is the one profession where ‘aspiring’ is routinely linked to job title. When’s the last time you heard ‘aspiring’ applied to ‘plumber’ or ‘Uber driver?’
ABOUT PAUL RUSSELL:
Paul Russell’s career in the entertainment industry spans over forty years as an award-winning casting director, director, and the author of the NEW & EXPANDED edition of ACTING: Make It Your Business – How To Avoid Mistakes and Achieve Success as a Working Actor
He has cast for 20th Century Fox, HBO, Broadway, and regional theater. Featured in American Theatre Magazine, Paul has directed premieres and worked at the Tony Award-recognized Barter Theatre. He teaches master classes at university BFA and MFA actor training programs and privately online with actors globally. Paul began his career in entertainment as a successful working actor.
For daily acting tips, acting career advice, audition & industry insights plus casting news follow Paul on Instagram.
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