Actors

An actor is a person who portrays a character in performance. Actors work across theatre, film, television, radio, and animation, as well as voice-over for commercials and video games. They strive to inhabit a character's physicality, voice, and psychology, translating a script into credible behavior and emotion for audiences.

To create convincing performances, actors study the text, research the context, and collaborate with directors, designers, and fellow performers. They rehearse, block scenes for stage or cameras, and adjust their pace, tone, and cadence to suit the medium. Training ranges from formal programs at drama schools and conservatories to community theatre experiences and self-directed practice. Acting approaches vary from classical acting and realistic method systems to improvisation and stylized performance.

Career aspects: Actors audition for roles, go through casting, sign contracts, and may work on productions with variable schedules. Work can be irregular and competitive, with income often irregular. They may specialize in stage acting, screen acting, or voice acting, and frequently work across multiple media. Unions and guilds—such as SAG-AFTRA in the United States, Equity in several countries—negotiate contracts and protections. Awards recognize achievement across media, including the Academy Awards, Primetime Emmys, Tony Awards, and other honors.

Technology and trends: Digital media, motion capture, and voice-work require additional skills; contemporary actors may perform in multilingual contexts or participate in dubbing and remastering. The profession emphasizes collaboration, preparation, and ongoing skill development.