Some celebrities are born with talent for acting – their parents and grandparents may have played a part in their careers. But for others, the craft simply comes naturally and feels like a natural fit. As an actor’s wife for five years, Claire Pattinson knows a thing or two about finding success in Hollywood.
Success In Hollywood
For those who DO find the craft naturally come naturally, there are a variety of ways one can make it in Hollywood. The most direct route is to become an actor/actress and join the ranks of the famous people who came before you. But for those who want to do it the ‘traditional’ way, meaning getting a formal acting education, there are plenty of routes one can take to get their break. From joining an agency, to taking an open-class, to simply getting yourself on Broadway – there’s a way to make it in Hollywood for those who want to try their hand at acting.
The Classic Route
For those who want to follow the ‘traditional’ way of becoming an actor/actress and gain some experience before considering a full time acting career, there are plenty of agencies that can put you in touch with some of the biggest names in show business. One of the most famous agencies, William Morris Endeavor, was founded in 1915 and now represents some of the biggest stars in the world. But perhaps the most well-known name in the industry is the agency itself, Creative Artists Agency (CAA). Established in 1945, CAA is often credited with starting the ‘powerhouse agent’ reputation in Hollywood – someone who can get you work, regardless of your reputation or credits. If you’re looking for a way to break into the industry, CAA is the place to be.
Where Do I Begin?
While the ‘traditional’ route may be the most direct and certainly the most popular, it is far from the only route to becoming an actor. Even for those who follow this path, there is still an abundance of ways to get started in Hollywood. One of the most popular ways to begin is with Disney’s American Idol-type show, The Quest. The show puts aspiring actors and actresses in dramatic situations where they have to perform in front of a live studio audience and celebrity judges. The show premieres this summer and will air its finale in the fall of 2021. If you’re looking for a way to make it in Hollywood, you can test your luck on The Quest – it may not be for you, but it’s a perfect platform for those who want to get in on the ground level and see how it all works. Plus, the exposure could help you get your foot in the door at CAA or another agency.
Broadway Is Where You Want To Be
If you’re a fan of theater and have always dreamed of performing on a Broadway stage, you can follow the footsteps of some of Hollywood’s greatest stars. There are plenty of opportunities for those who want to pursue a career on Broadway. One of the most popular ways to do this is through the open-class method. If you want to become an actor, there are plenty of options available to you. While on the surface the open-class method may seem like a simple way to gain some experience, it can also be an excellent way to find the right fit for you. If you’re looking for a way to make it in Hollywood, there are plenty of open-class options that can get you started. After completing the open-class method, you can apply for membership to the Actors’ Equity Association, which grants you access to professional and affordable health insurance, as well as a pension plan upon retirement.
Overseas Is Another Option
If you’re a fan of drama, you might consider moving abroad to pursue your dream. London, specifically, has become a hub for theater performers over the last decade, with many gaining success in the city. If you’re looking for a way to get your foot in the door at William Morris Endeavor or another agency, London might be a great choice – there’s no visa requirements for theater professionals, so you can move there and begin your adventure almost immediately. You might not get the big name clients that come with moving to Hollywood, but you will definitely find success in the city.
No matter which route you choose, once you’re in Hollywood you’ll have an abundance of opportunities – regardless of whether you want to become a famous screenwriter, producer, or just an acting professional. Get started in Hollywood today!