Why it's so hard to break into Hollywood as an Actor

Ever wonder why it's so hard to break into the Hollywood acting industry? Today, I will be discussing what makes pursuing a career in Los Angeles so difficult and sharing acting tips and advice for aspiring performers. Subscribe and enjoy! 🎬
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⏰ TIME STAMPS
00:00​ Introduction
01:19 LA Living Expenses
02:22 Acting Expenses
03:42 Why it's Hard to Get a Talent Agent
04:58 The Auditioning and Booking Dilemma
06:37 Survival of the Privileged
08:35 Opportunity and Nepotism
12:08 Advice & Survival Tips
14:00 Outro
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☁️ EXTRA INFO
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Tags:
Acting, acting tips, acting advice, Hollywood, Hollywood actors, how to become an actor, how to get on tv, how to get in a movie, how to become a successful actor, the truth about the acting industry, los Angeles, acting career tips, makayla lysiak, how to get on Netflix, the darkside of Hollywood, how to find acting auditions, how much does it cost to live in la, why do people fail at acting

[@MakaylaLysiak]

How has 2023 been for you so far?💭

[@Itz._kyie]

Ngl kinda stressful and scary because I wanna start auditioning but I’m too nervous because idk if I’m good enough plus just school lol but I’ll get through it also love your vids you’ve helped me discover my dream and I’m am extremely grateful for you💚💚

[@MariamNdobora]

Hectic to be honest but it's great to see another video of yours again ✨✨✨

[@izzylove4904]

January wasn’t so great but I know the rest of the months will be great. February is treating me well.

[@freemanmoyo1044]

Super busy, going through a transitions, which is exciting...🔥

[@freemanmoyo1044]

Clapperboard!! 😅

[@dominiqueelliott7228]

I’m glad she mentioned nepotism. I’ve seen Hollywood stars deny this as if it weren’t true but it most certainly is. Doesn’t mean you can’t make it but that is the reason why you always see the same string of actors in most films because they are literally offered flat out right given the roles

[@victoriavezich7914]

Would love to see a nepo baby live the life of an aspiring actor with no connections and doesn't even live in LA.

[@venomsymbiote7555]

I believe that’s called the A-List😂. I’m kidding but I get what your saying. I often wondered why some actors show up in everything. It gets boring after awhile unless your a super fan or something

[@sakonan4883]

It depends. Katie Cassidy had a rich dad and she’s barely a c-list actor. But yeah, it’s great to be able to get your foot in right away. Tbh, all of us would prefer that over nothing. Either that or for our hard work to reward us right away. I’m saying this as someone who has absolutely no connections.

[@gloriathomas3245]

contrary to what people believe nepotism is far more prevalent in the music than anywhere else in the entertainment business

[@Bingo_the_Pug]

Jim Carrey is one of the few that became successful without having any relatives in the industry

[@HeeJunMinx2]

from what I notice is that most of the actors and actresses today, if they are not from a wealthy family, they usually started out as child stars. Is really rare to see actors that made it as adults that don't come from famous parents.

[@dija2189]

glad to hear letitia wright broke that 🙏🏾and dorothy

[@notwwwansik]

So it will be difficult for me to succeed?

[@kellygreengables3936]

​@@notwwwansik Everyone's journey and circumstances are different!

[@thegrimsleeper7312]

@@notwwwansik yes

[@karelytrejo6431]

the only adult actor that i can think of who worked their way up is adam driver, and that’s all 😳 kind of depressing in a way

[@kayleigh8323]

Glad she mentioned nepotism, sometimes I watch a new TV show and I'm like "huh, that actor/actress is really cool!" then I search up their name, and turns out, they have family connections with their mom, dad, brother, sister being an actor. Makes it hard for us aspiring actors to actually have a chance of making it in this industry when there are a bunch of other people that have family connections working at the same position as us.

[@AmiAki]

Yeah most of the time they haven’t even go to acting school they just get the audition and gig and it’s so frustrating cuz I’m like why do I have to do all this meanwhile roles are just handed to nepo children

[@PollyKaragergi]

Watch Margo Robby! She is the best example how talented can really work in Hollywood! It’s just 10 years ago then we saw her in The Wolf Of Wall Street 😮 Wish you success ❤

[@biazacha]

Relative actors are easy to spot, but all the actors that have family in producing, PR, music industry, etc get a lot of open doors that are not as obvious at first glance. That’s where nepotism really thrives and where most of people making a living in Hollywood, actors or not, falls under.

[@sarahfranco6802]

@@biazacha frrrr this subtle nepotism should be talked about more

[@sergf3624]

Why the parents or family relatives worked hard to be in the position they are dont blame the kid blame your parents for not being in the industry and instead got a comfy 9-5

[@CourtneyShane]

I had my first agent at 15 and I'm 46 now still chasing this dream. It's SOOO HARD. I still ache for this. Getting enough auditions even with reps is rough. I am constantly going back to the drawing board to reinvent trying to break in. It's exhausting and heartbreaking. I go through spells of being on fire and 100% believing I can do it. Then spells of complete depletion. Here looking for motivation yet again. More than 3 decades later. Not giving up.

[@KatDemarco-rg9xg]

Give it up, all actors need to give it 5 to 10 years of giving their absolute best and doing thousands of auditions, after the max 10 year wait, save your money and become something else, start a business, become a surgeon, a nurse, anything, takes few years of university and you’ll make tons of money as a surgeon. Acting is not for everyone, producers and casting agents see a star potential on people who actually have what it takes to become a star. You could be incredible at something else, stop wasting your time, you should be a home owner at your age with a good savings account and a solid career.

[@alex_5199]

I absolutely believe in you, you can make it! please, please give yourself time and grace- the universe WILL reward you, whether that is big or absolutely tiny, it is worth it with your effort.

[@RealityRecovery]

@@KatDemarco-rg9xgyou sound like someone’s grandparent

[@myselfmy2778]

You scared me because I'm 21 I want to became actor in hollywood, I will start trying my 30 and I think I will get break at my 35

[@KatDemarco-rg9xg]

Listen, I know a lot of actors, and people who work in the industry, you don’t start your actor career when” or in future or later, you do it now, if you are 2 years old and your parents get you started that’s amazing, if you are 21 years old you need to start right away, don’t wait, once you hit 25-27 years old it’s basically too late unless you are absolutely breath taking and gorgeous or have incredible acting skills that is Oscar worthy and you also get super lucky, in order to make it. Go hustle, work hard for your dream, the acting career is very age dependent, it is very rare for any actor/actress to make it big at older ages, Steve Carrel is a rare example and he’s a comedic genius.

[@parisjohnson8985]

I been wanting to act since I was very little, and now I am 23 about to be 24 and still chasing that dream. There isn't a lot of acting opportunities where I live. So, I decided why not make my own. I have an idea for two short films. One of them is close to being in the works. I hope to make it far one day.

[@vanityyyyy]

You will! What are your short films about?

[@kennykenny5043]

me too! i've been wanting to get into acting on and off for years now and i just turned 18 a couple months ago so the quesrion of what i want to do for a living came up into my head and i'm still not very sure. acting seems so fun, the bad thing is there isn't really many oppotunities where i live, at least if you aren't already in it and have been for years

[@absv444]

I love when people have this mentality. Keep pushing ! If anything, it adds to your portfolio

[@cocolives]

You'll make it and when you do you're giving us a treat! 💗😂

[@delsmontgomery]

never give up

[@claudeseymour]

"It's really survival of the privileged in LA" PREACHHHH! Say it louder for the people in the back! Thank you for giving the REAL INFORMATION out to up-and-coming actors so they have a realistic outlook on the industry and what really goes on! Keep it up Makayla!!

[@balladofahomeschooledboy0514]

not everyone was rich before they entered hollywood. take for example bella thorne, jennette mccurdy, and demi lovato, they are all cash-cows for their parents and provided food & shelter for their family.

[@alfblue4734]

meh, that only has to do w living in los angeles, u can book roles online these days. Majority of netflix stars have done so. Fact is the competition is way too high, 1000s will apply for one role, and out of all ppl who do book work, only some of those projects will be sucessful. There r plenty of mediocre actors trying to make it big, who also love complaining about not been given enough oppertunities. So u cant fully blame ppl born w silver spoons in their mouths claming they take away all the oppertunites, its simply not true. There are too many rags to riches stories in hollywood for that to be true. Many of todays breakout stars , be it from stranger things, wednesday or even the top 1% of hollywood, selena gomez, dicaprio, nicky minaj, denzel washignton, come from normal or broken homes, either way having no advantage over anyone else except their talent and work ethic.

[@ADifferentVibe]

I'm an LA actor with 40 credits, but I still have a career that I've built from scratch (went to college and got a job in engineering that pays). I wouldn't say I am privileged through nepotism (I don't have a show business family), but I created my own privilege of having my own funds and support through hard work. Best of luck!

[@Kc-qe5dv]

@@alfblue4734 Denzel Washington is from a wealthy, well educated black family(many black celebs are from well of backgrounds don’t believe the shit they rap/sing/talk, and it’s okay). Also Selena Gomez wasn’t rich, but she wasn’t poor either nor starving she lived in a quite small nice house(not luxurious by american standards), without forgetting her mom had ‘Connections’ in the industry even though she wasn’t wealthy, lastly Selena Gomez upbringing gives her the affordability to be an artist who doesn’t face immense public scrutiny for not being talented(she’s nice, but no talent at all), Let someone like Ariana Grande or Willow Smith lip sync on stage, or have lame as hell performances they would be scrutinized nepotism babies.

[@inesmaroua5419]

​@@balladofahomeschooledboy0514 but they started since ethey kids it's diffrent

[@TV-yb2bn]

🎬 I’m an actor living in Hollywood & that nepotism thing is real lol. I went to NYU with the daughter of a famous film director and doors were just open for her that weren’t for me. Even so, I’m still in the game, when I’m not having to waitress to pay the bills. Having other interests is essential for emotional well being

[@AestheticallyC]

Let me guess Christopher Nolan daughter ?

[@michaelsix9684]

survival out there is a lot, hang on, just work and network all you can, build your resume, you control your output and it does count

[@AestheticallyC]

@@michaelsix9684taking this advice and a as a sign as some that dares to become an actress 😢❤

[@christopherdieudonne]

I'm not even an actor nor am I pursuing that career. And yet I find this content extremely interesting. Subscribed !!

[@MakaylaLysiak]

Thank you for the sub and for watching!

[@Kim-rw6yv]

Same Lol 😂

[@reinhardt5405]

This girl seems to posses a genuine kind heart. If she doesn't make it to Hollywood its because she's not meant to be in that toxic environment. Making videos like this truly helps other people who do not know their way around it. She's already making a difference. When she least expects it, life is gonna surprise her with a huge blessing.

[@wmdiink6697]

she ain't gon make it cuz she talk too much

[@lauradelregno99]

It's true Hollywood destroy people who are good hearted

[@zyleymacruz333]

I feel this way about corporate America :/. I think I’m not cut out for it

[@UpworkMaker]

Shes dreaming & looking through the world with rose colored glasses

[@roselynholloway7863]

@@UpworkMakerhow

[@weiszvanessa]

also, another random disappointing story for y'all: i got an invite to audition for a mini series based on a book, historical, that i felt really connected to based on my heritage and was kept in the loop for the final picked actors for two months. then i got an email that they went with someone else after all and i was honestly gutted because i put so much into that role and preparations. it's an international production so it was planned to be filmed across europe and a week ago, i found out it's being filmed in my country-- slovakia. it made me think: what the f****ck, how unfair that some other actor got the role even though they aren't slovak perhaps, while i'm born and raised here and didn't get it in the end. if that was the end of it, i'd manage. but today, i went to work-- i have a part-time work at a gas station in my home city and i'm only filling in for my co-worker today and in comes a guy, asks if i could perhaps ask for a favor in terms of water supply for tomorrow because they're shooting a movie literally around the corner from my workplace, at this abandoned industrial park. i told him, i'd ask my boss and let him know how the request went and as he was leaving, i asked him out of pure curiosity what are they shooting tomorrow here. GUESS FUCKING WHAT!!!! IT'S THE PROJECT I FUCKING AUDITIONED FOR!!! IT'S NOT ONLY FILMING IN MY COUNTRY, IT'S FILMING RIGHT IN MY DAMN FUCKING TINY HOME VILLAGE -- AN INTERNATIONAL FILMING CREW, A BEST-SELLING NOVEL PROJECT... A FEW BLOCKS FROM WHERE I LIVE. I know it's a test to not let it get to me, like life or the universe is basically testing me to see how okay i'm with the constant rejection and how well i can handle it but seriously??? i just can't believe the amount of coincidences-- my only day at work this week and i meet the exact guy that's setting up the location and asking me for a favor for a project that i was invited to audition for and made it pretty far, waited for months, and it's filming in my home city.. i told the guy about it and we were fucking mindblown about it. he even told me to come to set tomorrow just to hang out lol but i don't know if i should go xD UPDATE: for everyone asking how it went, I've been coming to the set regularly and will be filming most likely until May-July so yes, even though it is a small role and some of it is background I've had some scenes with the main actors as well and the whole filming so far has been super tiring and tough because of the terrible weather conditions but also super fun because I met a lot of amazing people and I'm learning a lot from everyone on the set whether crew or actors and i'm really glad I got through my ego and went because it definitely taught me a lot already.

[@elvisochieng6267]

Damn that's rough buddy

[@elvisochieng6267]

You should go though you could get an opportunity to Terry crews started while working as a janitor on movie sets and just asked to randomly feature in the movies

[@svetlanafilipovic2745]

Unbelievable! So sorry. What did you do?

[@SL-lz9jr]

I hope you went or will go. You never know what can happen if you show up. Maybe this is supposed to be a weird twist in your journey. Sometimes we don’t find clarity until months or years down the line. You just never know. I’m sorry you didn’t get the part but I hope you find something else!

[@a.o.5695]

Did you end up going?

[@watchmyepics]

You pursuing screenwriter and getting into the industry looking to help us actors get legit opportunities is a blessing. Thank you

[@rhyswong8976]

I used to work behind the cameras for movies and follow my boss around... this video is actually very essential for people who wants to be in this acting industry, that's the reality. People who wants to be actors, you have to stand or overcome these hard realities before deciding to seriously go down this path. It's not impossible... unless your the son or daughter of Brad Pitt or Steven Spielberg, its just highly improbable to get to the 1% at the top. Beautiful video.

[@HARIKRISHNANK-oj2te]

Do you work in movies?

[@jaeminssocks]

8:57 this guy was going around asking wealthy people “what the secret to success” and one guy replied “it’s not _what you know,_ but rather _who you know”_ Edit: 9:24 EXACTLY!!

[@MakaylaLysiak]

Spoke too soon huh 😂💕

[@jaeminssocks]

@@MakaylaLysiak yes!!! Also thank you for this video! I really appreciate the rawness and transparency while discussing the entertainment industry! It shows how much you truly care and I respect that 💗 I wish you well Makayla!!

[@Em_Elizabeth]

Networking, yes.

[@JoannaEve]

Thanks for this. 10+ years in the industry and still haven't 'broken it into Hollywood'. That fact isn't stopping me. It makes me happy. (and I aint giving up yet :D )

[@martialartsthoughts]

For me, being a Martial artist opens me up to Asian film studios.. my focus is action/martial arts film.... Here in America, they want you to do tons of classes .. Foreign markets just want to know you can execute.

[@otterwithadarkside4422]

Go get em girl!

[@animelvr99]

Good luck!!! Keep doing your best

[@michaelstone2340]

You need to get a famous parent. If you don't have one, you're going to struggle.

[@martialartsthoughts]

@@michaelstone2340 Or they come at you with that weird.

[@blairopic]

your point about accessibility and privilege in the industry is so spot-on, makayla, and i love hearing your goals in how you want to break that down and help others ♥ you're the best industry influencer around and have taught me a ton, so i just wanted to let you know how much i support you!!

[@MakaylaLysiak]

Thank you so much Madeline for the kind comment! I really appreciate it 💗

[@1KingFisher]

It’s not even just the money issue, it’s the nepotism. Nearly every celebrity has some ties to Hollywood prior to making it big. I grew up in LA and can tell you that a huge amount of our homeless people are people who dreamed of making it in Hollywood. Celebrities also don’t look like native Angelinos. Most native angelinos aren’t white. Look at the end credits to movies and you’ll rarely see a name that isn’t white. They only hire their friends and family. Even outside of the actors.

[@sabrinaa3478]

Intresting, thanks for sharing

[@vampirechic201]

This is such a realistic video and it happens a lot. I live in Atlanta and everyone and I mean almost everyone wants to be an actor now because they’re filming so much here. Being realistic is one of the first things you should do too. It’s a lot and it’s important to have a backup career too. Love you girl! Thanks for the video.

[@MakaylaLysiak]

Thank you for sharing and watching!

[@TeKeyaKrystal]

How To Become An Actor with NO Experience [nor connections] Step 1: bffr.

[@zolarenard2246]

Good info. I really just got curious about Hollywood after following Jenna Ortega's story. She had shared a fair share of information about how difficult it is on trying to be a successful actress (and most auditions she got to didn't land in her favor due to her being a kid Latina). And despite succeeding in being an actress in Hollywood, nothing is guaranteed in their line of work. So most actors and actresses make the best of what they can get... Also, most aspiring actors and actresses don't actually live in LA due to its expensive life cost. They drove there for auditions back and forth, over and over again. Started in small roles or even adds but its still depends on the opportunity and the luck they get. Even then, it's still not enough when you don't have connection or didn't have the charm they claimed you need to have.

[@bmwjourdandunngoddess6024]

Yeah Zendaya didn’t move there until way later, she also had an intriguing story! What was Jenna Ortega’s story!? And unlike t being a musical artist, you fade quicker and stop being so popular when you’re an actor and it’s way harder to become an Superstar

[@kristinatrotsiuk1429]

Jenna Ortega is definitely talented, but in her case there were also connections involved. She told her mom she wants to act and her mum recorded her monologue and after uploaded to Facebook. Apparently somebody knew and was following Jenna’s mum on Facebook who knew some casting directors. It’s honestly just hard to get into this huge business because even for the small roles you gotta know somebody.

[@zolarenard2246]

@@kristinatrotsiuk1429 That was just her first agency. And it was for product advertisement only. And even if she got an agent, the audition she went through was still depended on her skill only. She went through many, many auditions to get a role in her first movie and went for 10 audition to get the role of Harley in Disney show. She also shared how often the contact for agents were also already dead when they tried to contact them. (Source: Podcrush with Penn Badgley) The point is, the video's point on how hard it is to get an agent was right based on Jenna's experience and even then, it also didn't mean she can easily get a role because she had to compete with other actors

[@zolarenard2246]

@@bmwjourdandunngoddess6024 Jenna started doing ads when she was around 8.5 years old after she succeeded in convincing her parents to let her act and be an actress (There's a lot of advertisement she had done and honestly we all don't know how many there are). They drove back and forth from California to LA for any auditions available. Then, when she was around 10-11 years old she started doing a cameo in movies, got roles in some TV movies,, joined Jane the Virgin as young Jane while also joining multiple Nickelodeon projects, and also got a role as Darcy in Richie Rich. When she was around 12 years old, she got a role as Harley Diaz in Disney's SITM, got a voice acting for Princess Isabel, hosted many Disney events (RDMA) when she was 14 and did promotions for Disney. Fast forward, she left Disney when she was just 15 years old and got labeled as a Disney actress. This made it very difficult for her to get a role due to many showrunners thought she couldn't handle a more serious part and she had almost forgotten how to act due to being too long in Disney (She was like many other Disney actors were strictly arranged). As the result, she landed only 1 role in the movie, Saving Flora... That was until she got a part for You S2 for Ellie Alves and proved she's still an articulate actress. Through Netflix, she also got a voice acting job (Jurassic World Camp Crustaceous) and starred in 2 movies, Babysitter Killer Queen and Yes Day. Then unexpectedly after that, she auditioned for Scream 5 and got the role of Tara Carpenter while she also sent video tapes for Ti West's X and got the role of Lorraine which hilariously surprised Scream's showrunners because they thought Jenna was just one of the aspiring young actresses and an ex-Disney star no less (Source info: Interview from her SAG Award Nomination). Also, cause she was only 17 at the time... Between the shooting of her role in X, she also got a role in Fallout, American Carnage, and Studio 666 (I don't know how she arrange her hectic time during this). Then a funny story happened when she was doing her X's shooting. Tim Burton contacted her agent and requested an interview with her for a role on Wednesday. They were doing an interview when Jenna was still having a prosthetic on her face... cause she was still working on a scene... As it turned out, Tim was doing personal hire for Wednesday Show... and she got the role of Wednesday Addams. (Fun fact, Tim was the one who convinced her to take on the role) Then in 2022, lo and behold, Jenna Ortega became an internet sensation due to her fantastic acting as Wednesday. And we all know the rest of the story. Edit: Sorry if that was long but there was just too much detailed info I have to skip or this will be way too long...

[@SL-lz9jr]

I would also add that if they didn’t have family to support them and their dreams, like Zendaya moving to LA with one parent while the other stayed home to hold down the fort, then it’s even harder to do this. And if you’re trying to break out as an adult, that’s even harder to do because most jobs don’t provide flexibility for mid day auditions or last minute auditions. Which is why many actors who don’t come from wealthy or acting families usually start off on low wage jobs that provide some scheduling flexibility, as waitresses or doing DoorDash deliveries, etc. At least this was true before self tape auditions became a thing.

[@SidneyBeyince]

This is literally what I needed to hear. 31 years old not giving up my passion and dream of becoming an Actor. I have my bachelors in theatre arts but I haven’t used it because I work in retail that the schedule is all over the place to even audition for plays or even go to acting classes. I’m trying to get back because I miss it and really want to hone my craft to be able to get an agent and book

[@sailormoon2227]

learn about the law of ASSUMPTION

[@MichelleG333]

I’m about to be 31 and I’m ready to get back into acting too

[@wilma.montes3252]

If you ever success in the film industry I would without a doubt would want to work with you. Not just because as you said you want to make the business more accessible for people without money, but also because your such an amazing person, with the right intentions in head and that something I would want to support!

[@hearts444l]

Thank you for this, I'm a theatre actress, and whenever agents come and pick us, I never get chosen. It hurts, but not too bad, because they talk to me saying I'm good and ill get my big Hollywood break out soon! (According to them) any tips on getting chosen? Love you and your videos! They're a big help!!🥰🥰🥰

[@StargunAngelic]

For starters, ask them why didn't they pick you if they liked you and work on whatever that is, especially if multiple people are saying it. Ask anyone for advice and criticism and where you can improve and go from there. And as a general rule, get as much practice as you can, whether it's auditions, monologing in front of your cat or putting on plays for the parents of the kids you babysit. Do you best to get in some practical knowledge and experience, each time it'll help you in the long run

[@hearts444l]

@@StargunAngelic Thank you so much for this!!

[@starrinight6114]

the profile picture ...

[@NoirL.A.]

find yerself some parents that are already established in the industry or are otherwise famous as models or whatever. unless god or aliens intervene somehow nepo babies will one day rule the world if they don't already

[@ixenna1957]

tiktok, just take a look at Addison

[@Belltogo3000]

I don’t come from a rich family. I was raised by my mum and I am so grateful that she is supporting my acting career. I can’t imagine how hard it is for people who don’t have that kind of support

[@roxdaphe]

Great video! That is why my acting manager (who has managed huge stars in her career) made it clear to me the day i signed with her that it’s going to take about 5 to 7 years unless I get extremely lucky. I’m so grateful that she was straight up with me from the very beginning, so I honestly learned to not get my hopes up. that was also a few months before the pandemic, the industry has changed A LOT since then. But there are so many well known actors that didn’t get their big role until years after starting. But I’m learning there are so many other ways to make money in the industry and not just through one way of acting. You just gotta explore different options and you’d be surprised at which one resonates with you more. For example, you might think you want to specifically be a movie actor but you might actually be even better at commercial work (which makes hella bank if you land the right one, personal experience from booking a national SAG commercial). Or even exploring behind the scenes in film making. There was a woman in my acting class that pursued acting for 7 years and realized it made more sense for her to work behind the scenes as a producer because that is what she enjoys more after her experience with helping behind the scenes of a small project.

[@Upstate-Joey]

This was literally so informative and also done in a very compassionate way!

[@rahzy3141]

Even though it’s tough to pursue it I still still attempt to reach for it and telling myself that I’m gonna make it one day

[@Tyrenexg]

Yeah me too you’ll never know what could’ve been

[@strksapp]

same.

[@norawhite8975]

I definitely agree

[@sarwarn2107]

You can get it fast if you pursue Harvey Weinstein's demands;D

[@Yuvsme]

Same and I wish everyone luck!!

[@JoannaEve]

Also a big piece of advice I learnt a few years back is try to establish yourself first where you are because it will become extremely helpful and somewhat easier later. Eg: Margot Robbie was popular in Australia through Home And Away (?) before she was working in Hollywood. Or Cumberbatch was popular with Sherlock BBC in England before he catapulted to LA.

[@hi-ls6lt]

@slayer I didn’t realise Margot Robbie was a man

[@Morganhain]

*neighbours was the show she was on, hemsworths were on home and away :)

[@GwenKatt636]

but what happens when you're from a country where the film industry doesn't exist? Australia and England are big 😔

[@Morganhain]

@@GwenKatt636 you make your own short films, and then you would use those in a showreel that you send to casting agents maybe in a different country?

[@camillehaupt9434]

I love your advice and comments! You are supportive and positive without sugar coating things. Keep it up💕

[@humbertolepelch]

Thank you so much for this Video Makayla! As an actor living in LA currently, I can vouch for all of this.

[@Evcrlark]

I have only just started persuing my dream of acting, and right now I am doing theatre acting. I have always wanted to self-tape for television and films, so your videos have been so helpful! I hope that one day I can see everyone here successful because of you Makayla!

[@tosexe2535]

what age did u start?

[@Evcrlark]

@@tosexe2535 I started acting at around 6, now it has been years and years

[@bhadrak3962]

Can I talk to you?

[@Evcrlark]

@@bhadrak3962 uhh sure

[@padmeasmr]

Im an italian actress, studied philosophy at uni, then went to an acting school, got an agent, only did small acting stuff cause 99% I don't book anything e.e also because I'm not the classical Italian girl, I look German or Swedish and my accent is from the northern Italy. Its discouraging. The only opportunities I got was from knowing people. I got a famous agent but left her cause I didn't like the way she treated me. Now I've been having bad health issues and couldn't work another job so I got into YT just to do something creative I enjoy and I hope I can make something out of it next years. I would so much like to act in English instead of italian, also I feel like actors are much more considered in England or USA, I might move abroad in the future. Nice video anyways 💕 I especially relate on stay grounded in your faith. Also invest your time growing up in learning different skills in any field you like. That's why I studied languages, writing, piano, singing, tried different jobs etc... You can learn from any experience and that makes you in the end a better actor too. And you can provide for yourself while auditioning. You gotta become some kind of business person if you want to live as an artist I believe. Don't wait around for that call, write a play, meet people, make it work.

[@MakaylaLysiak]

Wow, thank you for sharing your story! This is so true! Working on other skills is great for your mental health and informs your work. 💕

[@padmeasmr]

@@MakaylaLysiak yeah!! also we've got to be realistic, luck is definitely involved in succeeding as an actor! You can still be happy by working in the show business even if you don't make it as a big celebrity. Fame is the worst motivation for any job. Btw how old are you?? You look so young 💕

[@katgreer6113]

Is acting not respected in the U.S?

[@caileycarrot]

👏👏👏

[@ilovejungkook8423]

@@padmeasmr Ti capisco anch'io sono italiana e sto studiando recitazione .desidero tanto fare l'attrice al estero perché sono una ragazza nera e sono sicura che qui in Italia non passaró mai una audizione perché i ruoli sono solo per ragazze bianche.

[@KathyYvette]

I love your transparency and candid discussions. Thanks for your help and honesty!

[@UdoADHD]

The images you show for apartments in LA is wayyyyyy too nice for the reality lol

[@TeKeyaKrystal]

*WAY* !! that's thee only part of this video that was out-of-touch.. and even 500-square-foot studio apartments are hard to find in decent neighborhoods #aroundLA

[@seventhkeyomegasghost8233]

I have always said the hardest thing about that business, how can you convince a casting director to cast you instead of family, or a friend of that family, or a friend of a friend of a friend, or maybe that casting director owes an agent a favor so they throw them a bone.

[@stefonlyne]

Clapperboard. Very sound advice given here in your video, Makayla. I've now been here in LA since 2015 and can attest to a number of things you stated. Dope that you're being the change that you want to see by elevating, educating and evolving. I just subscribed. Respect! Prosper!

[@reliantfilmsproductions9752]

Just came across your channel. You’ve hit this one right on the head about the gatekeepers Love ur content. This is also true for film careers behind the camera too

[@SlasherWolfblade]

Ever since I was 8 years old I've always wanted to become an actor and the main reason was because the harry potter movies inspired me and I really wanted to be in one. As I grew older I realised how hard it is to get into the acting industry. I don't live in LA I live on the east coast and there's is NO chance that I will ever move to LA. my parents arent really supportive of my dream but sometimes I think to myself "How will I ever make my dream come true" and it just stays in my head. I wasted my time thinking and dreaming so now I've decided to take action instead. I went to a couple auditions but they were scams because they ask me to pay to enter and all. I've been using backstage for about 2 years now. Thanks Makayla SOSOSOSOSOS MUCH for guiding me with your videos. it's not just a dream because I know that I'm good at acting its just I don't have connections and I'm lost. I'm trying to work my way up and I hope the biggest dream of my life will come true one day like yours.

[@SlasherWolfblade]

@Rachel Tolmach did u ever do that or did you find another passion?

[@SlasherWolfblade]

@Rachel Tolmach you know if i were you i would go for it and take the risks don't listen to people that tell you that you are useless because all it does is let you down. god is with you and will lead you to the right path. I'm not giving up on my acting dream and I know you wont either because I know how it feels and you can do it.

[@luisakulterer]

You are literally so kind, the acting industry needs more people like you. wish you wall the best!! x

[@tobe4real]

It is great to hear about how you want to operate as a filmmaking and casting director to go against how gatekept it is. Rooting for you !

[@MSNIKKI-nc3eb]

Not discouraging at all. This is exactly what I needed. Thank you.❤

[@amarir9924]

thank you for being so honest and open about the industry bc these are real things aspiring actors need to be aware of and consider 🎬

[@Iamsad9]

Thank you makayla , your videos encourages me and each one I watch I gets me motivated to not give up , thank you 🙏🏽

[@Starik-1]

You're episode in Station 19 was ABSOLUTELY phenomenal! I loved that episode there was so much emotion and build up that I couldn't take my eyes off the screen. Amazing work!

[@terebertuccivoicemusic9821]

I hope you make it as a filmmaker, the industry needs more people like youu!!

[@tiffanyholland3516]

“ Clapperboard” I watch your videos all of the time. I am set on being an actor and I am going to try my hardest to get to that goal. And the downs about the acting industry are a little scary to think about, but I am set on being an actor. Thank you for posting these videos. I never would have found my love for acting if you didn’t post. 😊

[@alielsayed3549]

You don’t HAVEEEE to pay for acting classes. You can learn by watching really great performances and practicing on your own. Trust me the money you’ll save on not going to acting class will help you out more than the experience of acting class

[@MarcusGarzasChannel]

Learning by watching performances and practicing on your own will never be the same as practicing in person with somebody else

[@kora4185]

@@MarcusGarzasChannel I’m from a tiny rural town in Brazil and we created theater classes in school with zero resources and support from teachers. Eventually we started to go on each other’s homes to study and present it to every event in our community. My friend’s little sister who grew up watching us is now in São Paulo trying to be an actress and she already impressed one of our most renowned directors :) Today with the internet you could take classes and find people everywhere to learn and practice and start your own projects. I truly believe the only thing this generation lacks to succeed is confidence (precisely cus we grew up with social media and think everyone is doing better than us)

[@kristinalitvin5240]

But what about there being a lack of education on your acting resume? It will always lack compared to others who took classes or went to school for acting

[@kora4185]

@@kristinalitvin5240 resumes are considered only in very risky professions, acting all you can do is just prove you can do it

[@wendyk5489]

Omg thank you someone said it 🙌🏽

[@ekamor3754]

Thank you for sharing behind scenes about what's it like out there... it's an eye opener!

[@wisepublishingwithkhadijah8854]

Hi Makayala, really great video. It's super real and raw and just speaks the reality of the entertainment industry. I specifically like how you mentioned schooling and how many actors and actresses skip their schooling in order to get non-minor roles. I personally believe that no matter what road you plan on going down in the future, education is important and you should always complete your schooling as it's a huge privilege on it's own. Great video once again, officially subscribed!

[@katgreer6113]

besides from that, getting any sort of degree is a huge backup in case you're cancelled, can't make a living off of roles and so forth.

[@missalaina4360]

Girl, this video was good! I really loved how to encouraged people to stay close to their families and the morals.

[@MakaylaLysiak]

Thank you so much!

[@jessie_campbell]

Makayla!!! Your honestly so nice and honest!! , and your videos really help someone like myself who’s climbing the ladder to achieve my acting goals

[@jpope125]

I have no interest in acting but for whatever reason the KZbin algorithm showed this in my feed. I found myself watching and very interested b/c of your insight and openness. Good luck in your continued career, and best wishes to all you aspiring actors! Despite the darkness of the Hollywood scene, I feel acting and storytelling are critical roles within our society.

[@theabstractsunflower7]

Loved that you were open about your faith and how being an actor is. Loved it. ❤ love your training videos so much im wanting to work with highschooler drama clubs and these are nice

[@CapellaStar556]

Dear Makayla. Thank you for always giving us true information, people always seem to miss out on the VERY hard part of acting which is getting anywhere. I am someone who has not yet been able to pursue into the acting industry. I also found it very calming to know that you were tall for your age, I also am taller than all of my "friends" thank you for your video on how to calm nerves, because of my height I went through teenage hormones earlier so I got, scared anxious ect. It relieves me a lot watching your videos, it gives me a little faith I might be able to make it. I am however, a highly sensitive person which is bitter sweet, so I can really feel the emotions of the character, but with the bitter part my emotions just get effected to easily. You've also spiked my interest in screen writing, I've always been fascinated by books and story's, but now I can make them come to life with screen writing. I understand how hard the industry is. So I do have backup careers that are not quite as challenging, for example Art, singing, languages history etc. What I'm really trying to say is "thank you" for everything. With you till the end.♡

[@finestgrowth]

Informative. I like that you didn't shy away from telling people to work on having thick skin and sometimes it still may be who you know that helps you get ahead but not to give up!

[@NA-OK23]

I’ve never watched a video that was explained so well until now . Good job 👏

[@BOBAgamer11]

thank you for posting videos to help me and other people follow their dreams

[@k_butterflies2911]

Thanks for making videos and helping us Makayla!! I’m not in the acting industry myself because of where I live… but i really want to start acting and maybe join a local theater and just see what happens, cause I’ve wanted to do acting for a long time

[@Dance2Live88]

*CLAPPERBOARD* I'm an "older" actor (well, a "middle-aged" millennial lol) and I am only about 2 years in as a signed actor. I must say, even though a lot of your content is geared toward younger actors, it's still been extremely helpful and applicable to where I am in my career. I definitely wish I had a resource like this years ago! You're so bright, thorough, and concise with your content and it's much appreciated! #Subscribed

[@MakaylaLysiak]

Thank you Leila for sharing this and for watching my content 💕

[@the_epiclore_]

Take for example , Priyanka Chopra. She's one of the biggest and most talented stars from South Asia , a Region home to one fifth of the world's population , still it took her 10 years to get the kind of roles that she's getting now , like Love Again(movie) and Citadel (series) , she has multiple projects in the pipeline as well where she's the lead❤️ , her hard work is finally paying off . To people who don't know , She has starred in 60+ movies in India and won 5 Filmfare awards (Indian equivalent of Oscar) and two National Awards(which are very prestigious) , she also became the First ever South Asian actor to lead The famous American TV show Quantico. There have been so many people who keep criticizing her for moving to Hollywood and doing small roles there , hopefully those people will understand that breaking into Hollywood isn't easy and Priyanka has already done that! Proud of my Queen 👑❤️

[@abbied]

Cool 🥰💕

[@abbied]

I think she did beauty pageants before becoming famous in America/Hollywood and she was a Bollywood star first tho right or not? ://

[@sergf3624]

marrying nick jonas probaly also helped lets be real here

[@vaderladyl]

@@abbied Yes she did.

[@abbied]

@@vaderladyl Thanks 👍🏻👌🏻

[@feminators5929]

Thank you very much for this video and your honesty. It helps a lot. This is the type of content we need. If you wanna get into an industry you have to be prepared. Specially when you are the product.

[@addisondrabik412]

i absolutely love that you are trying to help everyone fulfill their dreams of being actors/actresses in a world where its very hard to succeed. personally i dream of becoming a great actress and your videos have helped me learn and grow so much! i don’t know what i would’ve done without your advice. keep doing what you are now, and you can help so many people! ❤

[@mansamusa3708]

I never usually pay too much attention to these videos, it’s usually the same tropes: I know it’s hard but you have to believe yadda yadda yadda. But I felt a genuine vibe from you. You actually care and want people to succeed in this industry. I appreciate that. Thank you. Stay well and I hope you can make a difference in film and television industry.

[@Micaiahretelle]

Girl I love youuuuu❤️❤️❤️ “we’re changing things around here.”

[@dcstoy]

Thank you so much for this video! Love the honesty and truthful information that can definitely help me construct a plan!

[@robshertiz]

This was very helpful! Thank you Makayla for helping us keep our dream alive with every video.

[@ChiaraJade811]

Hi Makayla! Hope all is going well with you at USC! Fight On! At 12:36 the concept you are discussing is Emancipation. Emancipation is the legal process of a minor actor being able to make their own decisions without either their parent or legal guardian signing off on contracts, etc., before the age of 18. (I tried to myself back in the day of being legally emancipated from my parents-unfortunately without success.) Actors, models, etc. under the age of 18 are free to focus on their careers without the required three-four hours on set. I knew of an actor-model who went through the legal process of emancipation though they still had to go and finish their education-finish and graduate from high school (at least). They did that by the way of correspondence courses aka snail mail or overnight delivery. Your advice of having outside interests, staying in school, having friends outside the industry and staying close to your family and God-is definitely spot on! Right on the nose.

[@MakaylaLysiak]

Thanks for sharing an in-depth explaination, this is exactly what I was meaning to touch on 🤍

[@jessekings6487]

I like relate 100% u have no idea

[@g_aware_nerd]

Thanks. Iwhile I was aware of a lot of this, it's nice to hear it organized the way you did, and I love that you kept it real

[@JanishaGowda]

Also thank you a lot for all the advice you have given us. If I ever become famous I will be sure to tell people you are one of the main reasons I am an actor💜

[@carolmarianunez]

thanks so much for this video makayla. it's good to highlight the reality of what it's really like and that it will be a an arduous journey.

[@veronicabernier8946]

I love your energy! Thank you so much for sharing you’re inspiring!! 🤍

[@kaileybright.author]

This is the first video KZbin has graced me with your presence, and I just want to add that what you're talking about definitely relates to being an author as well. You *have* to have an agent; large publishing companies refuse unsolicited work and the chances of getting an agent, especially in a saturated genre, is extremely difficult. I've considered making videos specifically about being a writer, its difficulties, and my tips and your video just might convince me to finally go for it.

[@charlotteooi2421]

To a T!!!! Thank you for sharing 🙌🏻 I recently started my acting career last year and I know all this to be true even when starting and it makes you all the more prepared for different situations and know what you’re actually getting into when it comes to this industry ❤️ Love from London Xxx

[@MakaylaLysiak]

Thanks for watching 🤍🎬

[@joachimlokossa7309]

@@MakaylaLysiak Basically you tell us that they have very little chance of being in hollywood, that's it...

[@JanishaGowda]

@@joachimlokossa7309 It is the truth though

[@Tyrenexg]

@@joachimlokossa7309 pretty much😭😭😭 but hey if we don’t try we’ll never know

[@Jack_P984]

Completely Agreed Makayla You just manifested my Journey 🎥 Lots of love ❤️

[@moniquewrites9046]

Wow Makayla I am a woman of color in her 30s and I had a dream to do show biz but haven’t had the courage to spread my wings and fly. I am so proud of you for not chasing your dreams but for striving for them with honest hard work. I pray that God will expand you and reward you for your faith and provide you content and opportunities that will allow you to speak into the next generation! Blessings!!!

[@kelistalks3097]

Great video. Growing up my dream was to be an actress but as I grew older I realized how tough the industry is and found a new love. I’m now perusing a career as a journalist but acting is still a passion of mine.

[@T-enaci]

Tbh I am glad you touched on this. I get it I think that people should make their own place in Hollywood. I don't want to be a part of the crowd. I remember Dwayne Johnson said "Don't be the next me, be the first you". I know a lot of people want to be like the next big actress but I will do my own thing and be the next guide for anyone wanting to feel a part of something without being cast out because they're new.

[@harriyanna]

clapperboard, and tbh.....after the journey i have had i have decided to take a break from trying to pursue film acting. this industry is so gatekept to the point where i got annoyed and started working more towards others things i have interests in. so many actors tend to make acting consume so much of them and i didn't wanna fall down that route. so i took a break, and lowkey don't care too much anyone because i have other things going for myself.

[@ShaiekAhmedRana]

Very insightful, 100% about who you know, so annoying thats how it works! We need more people like you! Hope you get to fulfil your dream!

[@bellatvd]

the scams out there are scary. i auditioned for an agency and they called me back. i was so excited and thought it was legit bc they had a netflix actor come onto the zoom call to talk to all of us. this actor was from a show i rly liked, too. they then told me i had to pay (i can’t remember how much, but at least $200) and i told them i couldn’t afford that. they then proceeded to ask me if i could use my GRANDMA’S credit card. i laughed and hung up (i was 15, btw. i’m now turning 18 in a few months). i got to thank you for making these videos cause you were the one to teach me to never pay for representation. they get paid once i get a job. if you didn’t teach me that, i would’ve been out over $200. you’re amazing

[@CasterSugarq]

A random tip: Always work hard! Some of the greatest actors in the world are extremely hard workers, and keep trying until they are happy with their performance. If you aren't happy with your take, re-do it until you are, but don't burn yourself out. The industry is about fun, and if you aren't having fun, take a step back. You can always try after a water break

[@christine5647]

I am so glad I found your channel !!! I’m a senior in high school and I plan to major in theater in college and make a career out of acting. This video was very insightful and I’m subscribing for more of your content!! I love it, keep up the good work💕💕

[@daraudobong7195]

Love her! Praying for the best for you in your journey in the entertainment business. Keep fighting on 😉

[@billylee5335]

Love your spirit!! May God Bless all your endeavors never compromise for worldly success

[@Theogwill]

One of the best ways to break into to the film industry is networking, also work as a background actor, and sometimes working as a Production Assistant helps a lot. If you network you can also find a roommate. There’s so many ways to make it it’s up to you if your open minded and always think outside the box. You don’t need to rent a fancy building to leave in. Hollywood is not scary as you think.

[@flowergirl-pl6mb]

Yeah. Getting into the industry is definitely not meant to be a cookie-cutter experience. If I was to ever get into acting, of course making sure you are financially comfortable. But I think the biggest thing to work on first is building a resume and in-front-of-camera experience, meaning trying to get some kind of work on shows & commercials, even if it's low budget. It's better to have that, while trying to get an agent, than having nothing at all that shows who you are as an actor.

[@kekeg_games]

clapperboard. Thank you Makayla for teaching us and taking time out of your schedule to give us these amazing videos

[@CKGoldiing]

Arguably your most impressively frank video so far. Many young actors wouldn't share such candour for fear of reprisal, and they certainly wouldn't namecheck nepo-babies, yet here you are giving a fair & measured account of the industry. You're a class act 👌

[@mineTeresa]

I like your video's beacause you're so honest and want to help other people. Lots of love respect for you ❤

[@gretabonfanti2520]

I loved this video, it gets very easy to romanticize my dream of becoming an actress, so sometimes I really need a reminder of how hard it can be. It's not discouraging for me, non entirely, maybe just a tiny bit, but I still want to do it because I really feel like this is my calling. And, with that being said, That *clapperboard* you've got there is really cool! 😂😂 Lots of love from Italy ❤️🇮🇹

[@TTLYTEALA]

Ahh I love you so much! Love this everything you said is beyond true

[@k.mccandies1505]

I love you girl!! You are explaining it with kindness and honesty. Agents literally want you to be the stereotype of your ethnicity!!!

[@walterbowman3883]

I applaud your KZbin channel I think it's great that you're doing this so young people would know what they're in for and what it takes. Thank you

[@MakaylaLysiak]

Thank you!

[@woman7243]

I'm so happy you made this video 📹 ❤️. THIS IS SO IMPORTANT TO KNOW. you're really saving people from learning the ABSOLUTE hard way. There were more chances probably decades ago, but with social media and nepotism like you said, the chances are slimmer than a 90s model. You also have to be careful of the weirdos that pretend to know others and take advantage of you. it's a horrible game. That's Hollywood, Baby 🎬📽

[@natxie]

this is a great video! i’m 15, and i started acting when i was 8. i wasn’t really serious about it but now i’ve realized it’s something i want to do! i’m taking a summer theatre program for experience but it’s hard because i live in hawaii, so there aren’t much options. im hoping this will give me the knowledge i need!

[@averagejohn47]

What an excellent reference point for actors, great vid Makayla!

Love your vision and can totally tell you have your ❤❤ on the fright spot. I’m a music artist trying to get into the film industry so I feel you. Go all the way!!! You are more than halfway there 😊

[@HaleyMary]

I love that you want to open doors for people who want to work in the industry. I'm sure you will change a lot of artist's worlds some day.

[@eldyc2511]

Hi Makayla! I'm a senior this year and about to go to college in the fall and I just wanted you to know that your videos are so helpful and uplifting. Even though I don't do much relating to theatre and acting I still really enjoy your videos. It's so encouraging to see other young people who love Jesus and are passionate about what He has placed on their hearts. Thank you for being willing to pour into others and share your faith. Praying for you! ❤❤❤Clapperboard!

[@aidoshik08]

Omg I’ve just came across this video and I wanna thank the author so much for doing this❤️ You’re wonderful

[@andrewsarmiento3294]

Hello Makayla, I am more of a screenwriter with amateur filmmaking skills who recently decided to take both things seriously just now. You're video gave me good tips because I'm pretty sure most of the things you said in this video apply to those two professions too.

[@HARIKRISHNANK-oj2te]

I'm also planning to be a screenwriter, can I talk to you?

[@queenietisdom4681]

Thank you for giving us more insight on what hollywood is like!! I would love to see a video about POC and women of color in the film industry whether its acting or screenwriting or directing, I would love to see your views about that.