I’m Not on TV Anymore, Now What?
Posted on February 17th, 2010 | For ActorsI have to admit, it took me a little while to have empathy for actors with a gaping hole in their self esteem because their show has gone off the air. As someone who has never been on TV, it’s difficult to understand. Here’s how the first conversation went:
Me: “Really, you had a successful show that earned you plenty of money, auditions and brand recognition, yet you feel like no one wants to talk to you at a party because your show is off the air?”
My Client: “Pretty much.”
It sounds very much like the Hollywood cliché, fragile-actor bullshit.
But it’s not. I get that now. During my days in corporate america, I had the same problem – it’s called project work, and it’s very common and much more identifiable for average folk. You came up with a great idea (premise for a show). You convinced someone with enough money in their budget that other people would really want what your vision delivered (pitch). They gave you the capital and helped you create a team (production funding/casting/crew). You worked your ass off to deliver on time and within budget (shooting/production). The end result was a great success (twice as many viewers as expected). You got a big bonus check and a promotion (holding deal). Everyone loved you (500K Twitter followers).
But then the project ended (show canceled). Now what? Below are the Do’s and Don’ts I discuss with my clients the day after shooting wraps:
What to Do:
- Engage your fans. Now that you have some time on your hands, donate it to the people who follow you and love what you do. Use your online presence to make sure those same fans will be there to support your next project. Respond to comments on your IMDB page. Talk to your Twitter followers. Post exclusive information and pictures on your Facebook fan page. Redesign your website. Blog more.
- Create your own buzz. Suggestion: Run a contest for your Facebook Fans, YouTube subscribers, Twitter & Tumblr followers. And be creative, no signed DVD’s. Think projects.
- Stay sharp. Go to shows. Read scripts. Do research. Write a new show. Join an acting class. Watch movies. Attend a meetup about new media platforms. Evolve your craft and improve your skills.
- Do quality pro bono work. Not to be mistaken with free favors. The company you keep will go a long way towards getting the next job.
- Save your money. As in, don’t spend it on anything that doesn’t further your career. You don’t know when the next paying gig is coming.
What Not to Do:
- Feel sorry for yourself.
- Travel like Ferdinand Magellan.
- Drink in dark places with other out-of-work actors every night (and most days).
- Play so many video games that your Xbox becomes your best friend.
If this is something you are currently experiencing, you are not alone. I understand what you are going through. Keep at it and good things will come, now is the perfect time to invest in yourself.
There are no comments yet, add one below.
Leave a Comment