Blog

Your Fall Industry Update – Film/TV Production • Tariffs • A.I. Acting

By Abigail Hardin, October 01, 2025

135

• Share
• 
• 

In this week's entertainment industry update, we discuss Film & TV Production; Jimmy Kimmel Censorship; Political; A.I. Acting; Film/TV Business & Content; Theatre Talk; Diversity, Equity & Inclusion; Actors on Acting; Quick Bites

Why Actors Must Pair Words With Visual Examples When Describing Their Type

By Annie Chadwick, September 26, 2025

436

• Share
• 
• 

One of the most common questions actors hear in workshops, meetings, or networking events is:

“So, what’s your type?”

It sounds simple, but the way you answer this question can either open a door or close it. Casting directors, agents, and industry professionals don’t just want to hear a vague idea of who you are on screen or stage—they need to see it. That’s why combining your words with visual proof is one of the most powerful tools you can use to communicate your castable type.

Stepping Into a Busy & Inspired Fall Season - 2025 Production Report - Kimmel Suspension/Censorship - Emmy Awards

By Abigail Hardin, September 18, 2025

460

• Share
• 
• 

In this week's entertainment industry update, we discuss Film & TV Production; Emmy Awards; Censorship & Freedom of Speech; Film & TV Business; Theatre Talk; Diversity, Equity & Inclusion; Film Festivals; Quick Bites

Film & TV Production Growth in 2025

By The Up-To-Date Actor, September 12, 2025

1321

• Share
• 
• 

Where the Jobs Are

The cameras are rolling again—and the opportunities for actors are growing right along with them. While many actors believe that Film/TV production is still down, especially after pandemic disruptions and strike slowdowns, recent industry reports show a modest rebound in 2025—with spend and production starts trending upward compared to 2024. With opportunity expanding in new markets, now is the time to position yourself where the work is happening.

The State of Film & TV in 2025

Film and TV production has not only rebounded but surpassed pre-2020 levels in several markets. Streaming platforms continue to expand their content libraries, while traditional networks are investing heavily in scripted programming to compete. The result? More shows, more films, and more casting calls.

• Streaming Growth: Netflix, Hulu, Apple TV+, Amazon, and newer players are greenlighting diverse projects in comedy, drama, limited series, and docu-drama formats.
• Network TV Resurgence: Fall 2025 premieres are seeing a surge in episodic orders, especially in procedurals and family comedies.
• International Co-Productions: U.S. and global studios are teaming up more than ever, bringing opportunities to shoot abroad or in multi-national projects.

Defining Your Artistic Mission

By Annie Chadwick, September 05, 2025

987

• Share
• 
• 

Creative self-expression burns in all of us. It drives us, gnaws at us, and calls for a form of expression. Creativity is our birthright. We are born to create. Many aspiring actors come to me asking, “Do I have it?” But the truth is, “IT” is not a yes or no question. IT is you. IT is your unique voice and the energy that flows through you. The only reason most people struggle with performing is that they’ve lost touch with the imaginative play they had as children.

This blog is about reconnecting with that childlike creativity and turning it into a guiding force for your acting career. We’ll explore how to define your artistic mission, craft a personal mission statement, and maintain the mindset that keeps you inspired and resilient as a performer.

How to Start Your Acting Career with Background Work

By The Up-To-Date Actor, August 14, 2025

1371

• Share
• 
• 

Breaking into the entertainment industry doesn’t always begin with a starring role or a major audition. For many professional actors, the first paycheck—and first day on a real set—comes through background work.

Also known as being an “extra,” background acting is one of the most accessible ways to gain on-set experience, observe how productions operate, and start building your reputation and connections. Here’s everything you need to know about getting started.

Start Here: How Commercial Print Can Launch Your Acting Career

By The Up-To-Date Actor, July 31, 2025

1604

• Share
• 
• 

When you think of launching your acting career, you might imagine landing a big agent or scoring your first TV role. But what if your breakthrough actually begins with something simpler—and much more accessible?

Enter: commercial print work.

Often overlooked, commercial print is one of the most realistic and empowering ways for new actors to start building momentum in the entertainment industry. It pays, it builds your confidence in front of the camera, and best of all—it doesn’t require an agent or union affiliation to begin.

In this blog, we’ll break down what commercial print work really is, who it’s for, how much you can earn, and why it could be your smartest first step into a professional performance career.

Who Do I Submit To for a Project That’s Already Casting — Even Without a Breakdown?

By The Up-To-Date Actor, July 28, 2025

1303

• Share
• 
• 

You’ve done your research.
You know a project is in production.
You’re the right type for the world.
There’s no breakdown posted... but you don’t want to sit around and wait for one.

So what do you do?

Welcome to the art of the “Specific General Submission.”

It’s one of the smartest — and most underused — tools in an actor’s marketing kit. It’s proactive, it’s professional, and when done well, it can open doors before a role even becomes available.

But the #1 question actors ask when sending one is:

“Who is the best person to submit to? The casting director? An associate? The assistant? All of them?”

Let’s break it down.

Should I Take the Job?

By Annie Chadwick, July 23, 2025

939

• Share
• 
• 

How the 5 Ps Formula Helps Actors Make Smart, Empowered Career Choices

There’s no better feeling than hearing those words: “You booked it!”

Whether it's a short film, a regional theater play, or your first co-star role on TV, getting cast feels like a jolt of recognition—a tangible “yes” to all your hard work, training, and talent. And that feeling? It’s real. You should celebrate it.

But once the applause in your head settles, a deeper question arises—one that every actor, from beginner to seasoned pro, needs to learn to ask:

Is this job actually right for me and my career?

Saying yes to work just because it’s offered is something many actors do, especially early on. You may feel pressure to always stay “busy,” to prove yourself, or to be seen as easygoing and grateful. But here’s the truth:

You are the CEO of your career.
Every yes you give is an investment of your time, energy, and reputation.

It’s not just about getting work—it’s about getting the right work.

To help you make those decisions with clarity and confidence, I created a framework I call The 5 Ps Formula. It’s a practical, empowering tool that helps you evaluate offers from all angles—so you can say yes to roles that support your growth, goals, and artistic voice.

Summer Challenge - Production & Tax Incentives - Colbert Cancellation - Emmy Noms

By Abigail Hardin, July 18, 2025

1527

• Share
• 
• 

In this week's entertainment industry update, we discuss Production & Tax Incentives; Political; Film & TV - Business Roundup; TV Awards; Streaming; Theatre Talk; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Actors on Acting; Quick Bites; Shop Directories