Child actors are basically kids in the acting business. Well, duh, I know. However, the purpose of the article is to make you aware of the pressures many child actors face when it comes to self-esteem and maintaining success in this business. If you’re young and hot and an actor in the entertainment industry, guess what? You’re gonna eventually grow up, and guess what again? You’ll be considered a “former child actor.” And a lot of former child actors, unfortunately, do not have a good reputation in Hollywood.
If you’re a parent or a young person reading this, just know that this is a business. The entertainment industry is all about making money. Sure, you’ll have lots of fun on that hit television series, you’ll have lots of fun working on that movie, but sad to say, Hollywood may or may not always hire you. In other words, you may not be “hot” anymore as you start to get older. Yep, only the few survive in this business so you’re gonna have to take certain steps to stay afloat, to remain successful and beat Hollywood at its own game.
In my opinion, the entertainment (acting) business is the most exciting, most lucrative, most enjoyable business you can ever be in. However, it can also be the most cruel and vicious. I’ll talk about this more in other articles. Meantime, just be aware that you need to avoid the necessary pitfalls of becoming another “former child actor statistic.” Here’s a small list of things you can do to stay successful as an actor while you’re young.
1. Finish school. Getting an education is important. I don’t care how hot you get, work on getting that college degree. You may need it to fall back on.
2. Save your money. This one’s for the parents…don’t steal your child’s money. There is a law called The Jackie Coogan Act. Please respect it and honor it.
3. Have a good support system. The people who loved you before you were success will love you when you’re not working, so never turn your back on them when you DO make it.
4. Respect your peers. Never get conceited and start disrespecting people as you start to get popular. This is a common mistake young actors make. Respect everyone. And this goes for directors, producers, your fellow actors, make-up, wardrobe, hair artists and crew–even extras (background players). Do this and you’ll go far. That way, if you ever get down and out in your career; people will remember your kindness and will pull together to lift you back up.
5. Stay away from drugs. It will ruin your career and your life. Never forget that.
Anyway, these are just a few pointers…for now.
