How Much Money Do Actors Make?

[@ActingCareerCenter]

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[@skipperbee]

I started acting classes 5 weeks ago because of your videos demystifying the film industry. Thank you for doing this for people who are finally following their dream:)

[@skipperbee]

@@MrH4yWireI live in Alberta, Canada. I haven’t looked into online classes. I found a local acting studio that provides introductory classes. It’s a class size of 16 so it’s not too big and you get to interact and work with others. I have heard or bigger class sizes and also one on one acting classes. Depends on your what you’re looking to get out of the class and your budget. Good luck!!

[@skipperbee]

@@MrH4yWireThat’s a great idea!! Glad you’re finding alternatives than just giving up after not finding an in person class. I hope the best for you and your friends!!!

[@sha_j.]

I live in pakistan but I'm having a hard time finding a scholarship for drama and acting(don't know if those even exist),can you please suggest me a place with a scholarship for students from other countries that can't afford most things

[@moviestargf]

@@sha_j.there’s plenty of acting schools in pakistan that i’m sure have scholarships i only know bc my dad is from there and i looked at a lot of schools there for a bit

[@solvexis]

How is it for you? Im considering joining my local classes

[@MattGrossChannel]

My first principal commercial role began as a background performer. I used my acting teacher's advice, and I picked up the merchandise and then began demonstrating it on camera. It was a Home Depot/Art Delta Faucet commercial. Because of my actions, The Richards Group upgraded me to a principal performer and I was offered a 21-months residuals contract. Kurt, loved you in "Greenland". I watched that film quite a few times.

[@crencottrell7849]

13:42 *"it is very rare in fact it almost never happens where a beginner actor immediately starts making a livable wage from their acting income."* whew this was the biggest reason as to why I've procrastinated for over a decade pursuing an acting career, even though it IS still my dream at 37 yrs old.

[@ADifferentVibe]

That's exactly why I didn't quit my job when I start acting. You still gotta afford to feed and take care of yourself. I'm passionate, but not reckless

[@quentingray643]

Never give up on the dream no matter how long it takes..

[@AlecWyld]

@@ADifferentVibe Old comment, I know, but by keeping a job and doing acting on the side you also have less pressure and stress on yourself to perform financially, which in turn lets you be a better actor as you aren't in your head. Everyone is effected differently, but in general this is likely the case with most people.

[@finnandcork]

Do it, I waited til 48; albeit in Russia, one Bollywood film,

[@DivaG81]

Thank you for being so transparent with your earnings! I think so many people who aren’t in the acting world have no idea how, when, and why we make money (or don’t). This is why I never sleep on commercials or industrials! Acting is acting, and every time you’re on any set, you’re getting the experience to make yourself a better artist.

[@quentingray643]

As always Kurt this is very inspiring. Living in a small market my best year was $1200 and I average around $700 a year from acting. But this just shows me I'm not too far off and to keep working at it. Thank you Kurt

[@garyvanclemons]

“But cool doesn’t always equal more money.” Love it Kurt! Keep up the great work! 💪

[@ArcadeWarrior]

Love your advice! Thanks for the awesome videos 🔥

[@MishaJohanna]

As a super super beginner actor, I truly appreciate everything you share in your channel here. Thank you!

[@alexballesteros7658]

Your videos really give me hope as an actor still in my first two years as a professional. I've been incredibly lucky so far having booked 10 paying gigs paying $50k total. All but one of those have been commercials. I've loved all your videos as they display your humility and genuine want to help those starting up. Keep up the good work!

[@kevinsjournal]

Do you have an agent? What website are you using to find your gigs?

[@Omari-v4m]

@@kevinsjournalyeah I want to know to

[@mikekillagreen9432]

​@kevinsjournal Next you're gonna tell him to turn his head and cough

[@mikekillagreen9432]

​@@Omari-v4mYou need an agent.

[@HaunsX]

This is why every actor who says "consistency is key and it isn't for the faint of heart" genuinely mean what they say. I'm getting the sense that being an actor is the type of career that will reward you in the long run as long as you keep your head up and keep improving. I am 23 about to turn 24 in July and I am finally getting the courage to chase the acting dream that has been with me ever since I was 15. I pray everyone has success in chasing their dreams and I hope to see you all at the top!!

[@AmynHaider]

Hi Kurt, thank you so much for all your advice and guidance. Personally, not only do I find it extremely informative but also inspiring and an energy boost albeit in an unpredictable industry as your guidance on income levels suggest. THANK YOU!!! All the best to you too and look forward to more videos.

[@kevinsjournal]

This was inspiring, thanks for being so transparent and sharing all this with us! So awesome what you do for everyone here!

[@phyllis2866]

Love the transparency! Thank you! Union commercials are where the $$ is at!

[@kenzi-music]

This channel is a gift.

[@MegaProtozoan]

Kurt, thank you for being so open and share very valuable and realistic information as always! I do, too, hope to see you on set one day! Actually we worked on the same project once where I was one of the backgrounds. You said hi to me and I have never forgotten about that!

[@kristenhenryking]

yup! commercials have kept me in the top 12% of actors who've received health insurance for years. I'm so glad that you shared this---so true!

[@GoJibson]

Thank you for all of your videos, Kurt! I'm about to take my first steps into my acting career and your advice has been very helpful. I was listening to your videos in the car when your video about your personal journey through your acting career came up. I almost fell out of my drivers seat when you said you got started as a 27 year old software developer from Cleveland, OH, because that's MY description as well! I'm about to get signed by an agent and attend my first acting class after doing community theater for 10 years. Maybe I really will see you on set one day!

[@TeddyRumble]

I have a friend who is a retired teacher (retired young, yes, teachers make a good living.) He did the usual community theater, got an agent, moved to LA, and earns a decent income. His wife works. One thing that helps him is he's a lot of fun. One of those naturally fun people everyone likes having around. That makes a difference, believe me.

[@MK-Creator]

Always nice to watch another video from you! And so happy for the agreement! See you one day on set. Wishes from 🇸🇪 on my way to 🇨🇦

[@TheMaJelivArtist]

Brother, you always deliver! Thank you for your tenacity and your generous spirit that empowers so many artists to becoming working professionals!! See you around my friend!

[@wulver810]

Thank you for being so transparent, it really helps give an idea of what it's like and what to expect.

[@CallmaeBuhle]

I don't want to lie you are really good at teaching people about acting, I'm planning on starting acting in the school I'm going too next year the faith will do it magic

[@kenatopiaproduction3038]

Thank you so much Kurt for bringing clarity in this unknown acting world 🙌 Seriously I find out more information about acting from your channel rather than anywhere else

[@CallmaeBuhle]

I only watched one but I've learnt so much

[@aulioivan]

Thank you for your honesty Kurt. Sharing your experience and journey is inspiring.

[@kbadr]

Thank you for making video actors can send to their parents to make them understand this side of the business :) "It doesn't make you any less of an actor to make money outside of acting. It just makes you a smarter actor." Thank you for saying that out loud!

[@ShannynStallworth]

Thank you Kurt, these are the videos we rookie actors NEED to see. 💜💜💜💜

[@djraymondenrique]

Thank you for keeping it real. A lot of people don't understand the road with this. But, at the end of the day if it's fun, just keep on trucking!

[@pitpride1220]

Thank you for your honesty and clarity!

[@michellerosebrown]

Thanks for the video Kurt. Just to give an update, I have been a professional actor in the Twin Cities theater for about eight years and get paid $ 65.00 per month and live in a much smaller market in the midwest. after I get signed with a local talent agency my goal is to connect with mainstream talent agencies, negotiate higher pay and become a marketable actor. My side hustle as far as a businesswoman is to have a fashion brand catered to flannel because I am a diehard Minnesotan girl. I love wearing flannel.

[@YoungDecent1]

Hey brother! This was such a good video. It felt very genuine and authentic and gave a lot of insight. I am from New York and have been living in Atlanta for 10 months now. I started out as a singer songwriter /Actor in small productions. Then I moved to the technical side behind the camera and doing lighting, etc.. but since I’ve been living here in Atlanta, I’ve been getting casting calls sent to me for extra work and I’ve already been on the show and book for another one. so now I’m feeling that I need to go ahead and start auditioning for speaking roles and I love how you mention commercials because I don’t really care about going to Hollywood or being in a big blockbuster film, that’s not really my goal. I like low-key working, conditions. But when the right time comes, I will be ready if something bigger comes. I didn’t mean to write you a novel. Lol but thanks for this video you’re doing a great job.👏👏👏

[@joyboy1807]

The hard thing for me is to find time 'cause I work in a fulltime job. I have to finde jobs that are at the weekends or at nights. I hope someday acting will be my only fulltime job. Thank you fo är your videos, there motivate me everytime. Greetings from Germany 👋🏼

[@davidnavarro4821]

Very informative video! There is a 6th category of projects that actors can earn income with: music videos ! Recognizable names like Wentworth Miller and Keanu Reeves got experience from that.

[@QueenStix]

Great video! I think something else people should keep in mind is that you have to spend quite a bit too. Acting classes, headshots, subscriptions etc.

[@_nominae5675]

Hi,I love your contents

[@TeddyRumble]

If you don't absolutely love acting, don't do it.

[@oscarstinson9873]

Just wanna say i am here already 2 year watching you and today i got my first rol in a serie so i wanna thank you for al the advice.

[@metaxo]

You’re the man Kurt!

[@adenjones1856]

Such an informative reply to one of the most wondered-about aspects of the acting industry.

[@gaberealgaminggrg4768]

Thanks for being so real Kurt. I appreciate what you do

[@aroamunoz6974]

Thanks for sharing! It is so helpful!

[@JasMcKenzie]

I made $300 playing Leonato in "Much Ado About Nothing". Way less than minimum wage. So proud.

[@Itsmealexacreates]

Loved this video! Can you make a video on how you financially support yourself as a working actor?

[@TeddyRumble]

Marry a wealthy film lover.

[@jraquib]

As usual - amazing video. Thank you Kurt - you’re fantastic ❤

[@CorreiaChronicles]

Kurt you are the man!!! Appreciate all the videos!!!

[@BertheTanwoNjole]

Thank you Kurt for your videos 🙏🏾 So informative, insightful and helpful. I've been following you for almost a year and still learning although I've been in this industry for as long as you have (celebrating 15 years next January 🎉) 😉 Hope to see you one day on set. Long live #ActingCareerCenter ✨

[@abcdefg216]

Love the background! 👌👌👌 I did before too but as a one to swap inbetween 👌🌟👌

[@KathyYvette]

I love your transparency and authenticity in sharing with us. Great content. Thank you😊

[@Adam-Alan]

thank you so much Kurt, this is so important to me!

[@littlesquarecorner6746]

Love all your videos man. Very informative

[@living8272]

Thank you for this video 🙏🏾 However how much does it cost to be an actor? Would please do a video on that. Thank you and God bless 😊

[@taim1696]

I love this video, very honest and relatable.

[@JaimeJoseHernandez]

Looking forward to your acting year in review video 🎉

[@leemetherell-bigmerv6848]

Thanks Kurt for your honesty in sharing such personal information. You are a true inspiration even for a 48-year-old grumpy Brit like me.

[@Adam-Alan]

at that age, you must have a lot of experience, I hope you do audition for roles! I really would want to see them!

[@JasMcKenzie]

As an even grumpier 62 year old gringo, I agree.

[@leemetherell-bigmerv6848]

@@JasMcKenziehaha, great response, lots of luck and love brother

[@curious-65]

Awesome advice! thank you so very much

[@kingjaries]

I had to pursue a career before starting acting. I wanted to establish myself before having to do free work and minimum paying gigs. Fortunately, I can do that now while still on a salary wage. All I can say it's never too late to start acting if you do take this route

[@constancenunn]

I'm so glad I live here in Atlanta. Thank you so much.

[@watchingyoutube6880]

Thank you so much. I learnt so much from this video.

[@rashandagrier7506]

Your videos are great kurt

[@eoinmaughan252]

Thank you so much. I learnt so much. Your the best

[@barnzYT]

I watched a movie last night called Greenland with Gerard butler in it. Am I correct in thinking I saw you on the scene where they’re boarding the plane?

[@HuggeGadd]

Thank you so much for the knowledge I got from that video,. My dream is to be an actor nad I know I have to take baby steps to achieve it

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thanks for the shout-out to the negotiating committee, and I'll add to all the actors who went to the picket lines every day. Commercials are the best.

[@shawnmichael428]

sadly if were being honest , wasn't really a true strike , a strike means no work , not" well some can work" / special conditions etc Actually so many folks were and continued to work , and really just a minor inconvenience for others . pretty sad . The business is built on fear , lothing , and insecurity , we all have to navigate the waters somehow , in a business that promises you nothing . Many forget it's a business and always will be . Glad it's over now, we can all get back to being unemployed . Your videos are always on point sir . ACC is a great tool to have in the backpack . As a side bar, as much as we don't really " wanna" do it ., You should mention that many in Union Background / Extra work can get off to a great start in BG land and many in major markets can routinely make 30/40k a yr , More then principal actors . it is doable ....results are not typical lol

[@AmberRoseMiles]

Wow that commercial was a big blessing… I want one lol

[@janellemaynait]

Local productions can make a big difference im an actor in French Canada (Quebec) regardless if I'm a lead actor or extra you're making much less than an American actor

[@rashandagrier7506]

I like your channel and it's awesome kurt

[@MarlonG45]

Thanks for sharing ❤

[@surajkumardash467]

Love you advice❤️👍🏻

[@dafnyoliva-molina5920]

Hello, I love your videos they are so informative 😊 so I'm hoping you'd be able to help me with my question. I currently live in Michigan and I have a hard time finding good acting classes. What do you recommend?

[@oscarC3905]

Hi brother. Your video was the first video I ever saw on acting. I never acted before as a child or teenager or in my 20s or 30s. I began my journey in 2022 after seeing your video titled "how to become an actor in your city or town with no experience." I immediately began taking classes because you moved and inspired me to pursue this unique dream. I got an agent this year in February 2023. I'm currently non union but audition on average every other week via self taping. I absolutely love it! My real job right now is a Monday thru Friday investigator job here in Chicago. My question for you is what did you do to make supplemental income in that $24,000 year you mentioned in this video? I know you have an acting school and teach acting too....which I'd love to attend online one day in the near future. What advice do you have for someone in my shoes 👞 at this stage in the process? Thank you 😊

[@tkpersonal8563]

Amazing progress man. How did you find an acting Agent ?

[@oscarC3905]

I took level 1-3 at Green Room Chicago. After level 3, all the students complete an industry showcase. The showcase is how I got discovered essentially by my agency. I'm very grateful.

[@tkpersonal8563]

@@oscarC3905 amazing stuff man. Good luck on your journey. I hope we cross paths one day on a big stage

[@oscarC3905]

@tkpersonal8563 I hope so too. I've only booked Backstage stuff so far and nothing thru my agent unfortunately. I'm like 0 for 15 with my agent on commercials and TV stuff. No film auditions just yet.

[@tkpersonal8563]

@@oscarC3905 not bad at all. When did you start acting ?

[@mrpaolobafico]

what lens did you use for this video ? thanks

[@makscampbell]

Great video

[@sabreewowweeanderson9205]

Yea I'm always telling my beginning folks...acting comes in waves. So stop asking me how much money did you make...just enjoy the journey ❤

[@numberonepun6969]

Hi Kurt, I was curious if you need to have a vehicle living in Atlanta or can you get by using Uber? I'm very happy the strike is finally over!

[@TeddyRumble]

One thing to think about are the low budget SAG films. This can help sn actor join SAG, and producers don't have to be locked into very high-priced salaries.

[@katherinekanitsch5779]

I have been in the industry since the late 80's - early 90's and what I am finding the most challenging is booking work through Self Taping. I recently discovered that my current mobile phone does not produce quality video and photos, so I have frequently rely on taping services to up my chances of booking. However, using these services can add up and I am presently working within a tight spending plan. I was advised that the Samsung S23 mobile phone has an exceptional camera. I am trying to decide which to look into - new cellphone or a camera (then I would have to learn to edit, which I am willing to learn, but the Vegas Pro program I find is not user friendly. Any advice going forward? I am setting goals for 2024 and mastering the Self Tape is one of them, but I definitely need the proper tools to do so. Thank you for sharing your journey and helpful advice for fellow actors.

[@centralparkpiper]

Hey Kurt, I just left a message on one of your other videos but realized that one is two years old so I’m also leaving it here. I’m new to the Atlanta market and am wondering what your thoughts are on bmg talent. I’m Currently co/guest star looking for more guest and into recurring. Any thoughts would be much appreciated. Thank you so much.

[@VivianeRainJones]

Love your videos Kurt and really appreciate your candor. Question for you: I live in Canada- are Toronto and Vancouver good options or do I need to move south of the border if I want to move up into union, better-paying jobs? I'm just in year two of my acting journey (late bloomer) and still don't have representation and am non-union but hopeful!

[@TeddyRumble]

Canada makes a lot of films and commercials. Vancouver is a big film center.

[@justinwaller33748]

Please make a video about how to work in a sitcom

[@ericleeb6706]

Good thing you like rollercoasters!

[@michaeldesanta0077]

Please make a video about ,is it necessary to make imdb profile and how to make it

[@AshTheDuke]

Ty learned a lot

[@_nominae5675]

Hi Kurt Yue. I have been a fan for a while and I love your work in The black widow💯❤️ And I have a question…. Are Africans really needed in Hollywood movies? I want to know my probability making it big in Hollywood as an African.

[@Adam-Alan]

black panther could use background people, and being a background person in a big movie is very good if your new to acting!

[@_nominae5675]

@@Adam-Alan So you mean been a black,i can use background voices/people for a role if the movie allows?

[@Adam-Alan]

@@_nominae5675 yea, u could audition for voice overs or you could audition for being a background person in a movie, for example: Peter Parker walking into school, and then you see those random people in the background which can be you

[@_nominae5675]

@@Adam-Alan ohh I think I get it.

[@greathumbled]

I've been acting for 4 months and made about 700 in those 4 months so I do have hope

[@brianfordhamm2740]

Best of luck to you! Very interesting material. Book more jobs.

[@desmondsunstrum6260]

Thanks Kurt. I prefer your previous videos without distracting background music. Had to skip over this one.

[@Malik_Maverick]

Can you talk about how actors spend their money and where it all goes?

[@Chisomumennadi]

😂😂very important

[@JJolaine]

Hey - Columbus, OH here. Do you still make royalties if you are not yet in SAG? Just curious if the money is different. Also, I’m curious about when actors should join SAG. What are the benefits of being in the Union?

[@redwitch1472]

Hello.If I live in another country, how can I find an acting manager in other foreign countries to find the time for me to audition and choose the role in the movie?

[@jdnart]

Hey Kurt thanks for making these videos! I'm an aspiring actor but i cant afford acting classes what do i do? I wanna progress and sharpen my skills but i dont have the $ for it

[@emile4449]

Kurt, I think I saw your action figure in the store. Was I mistaking?

[@persiariley2296]

Thank youuuuuu

[@nistroyernistroyer6776]

How to become an actress/actor? In Belgium or in Europe

[@skipperbee]

Start with the beginning steps. Like finding an acting class. Attend film festivals and meet people with your same interests. This will all help you understand the industry where you live. Worry about the logistics of resumes, agents, managers, auditions etc later. Focus on what you can do right now to make a foundation in your acting career. There’s no linear path to success and everyone’s journey is valid. Good luck!!

[@ohlakabe]

Hi~ Mr.Yue I live in Taiwan.My name is Steven. It's a superise for me to know that commericals could generate wage continuingly ! I wonder to know one thing~ Many actress signed contract for Louis Vuitton Chanel etc... They dressed well to the fasion show just one day. Could those actress get pay continuingly just like the commericals ? I am curious about that! And thank you to share those knowledge! 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@sakshimakwana3966]

Website for online audition ????

[@clintong8649]

If you get hired for a sag-aftra movie, are you still allowed to do local theater for free or cheap?

[@numberonepun6969]

Hello, hope all is well. So I have a NOOB question to ask when it comes to explaining compensaton for a role. What does this mean Role Rate $2,600 + 20% / 1 year term + 3 edits? As I said, I"m a noob. I'm hoping someone could let me know what it means. Thank you

[@leftysidewinder]

I imagine the dollar amounts are gross income? You need to share your expenses incurred, annual earned income, and breakdown of income types: KZbin, W-2 paycheck, self-employment earnings, residuals. I imagine your tax return net income is much lower, after accounting for agent fees, training, travel costs, headshots, union fees, subscriptions.

[@RicardoThurmond]

My side hustle is being a nurse.

[@lifewithleahbeauty]

Congratulations

[@thebladesservent1542]

Hey kurt, i have a quick question. If someone is audition for a role in america, can they still get the role as long as they travel their themself?

[@samueltecassala2441]

I live in Finland and I would like to get in the industry but idk how from this far should I move out from here or what pls help been stuck in on this question for a while

[@mikkel6391]

I’m Danish and living in Denmark. I am currently trying to make a name for myself in the Danish industry first and then move on to bigger industries. It’s good practice and you will gain a lot of experience and make a name for yourself, too. So make a name for yourself in Finland first and then move on. Perhaps an international job will appear along the way. Also, Scandinavian and Finnish actors and actresses are quite popular in the US due to our acting skills, work ethic and rare physical features so you have an advantage from the get go. Start by seeking acting jobs in Finland and remember to have fun! Good luck from Denmark!