Actor Resume examples & templates
Copyable Actor Resume examples
From the ancient Greek amphitheaters to today's streaming platforms, actors have been the living vessels through which stories come alive. What began as religious rituals in 6th century BCE Athens has evolved into a multi-billion dollar industry spanning stage, film, television and digital media. The craft itself has transformed too—from the highly stylized performances of the Victorian era to the naturalistic approach pioneered by Konstantin Stanislavski, whose "system" still influences training methods a century later. While Hollywood remains the industry's epicenter, production hubs in Atlanta, Vancouver and London have expanded opportunities (with Georgia alone hosting 412 productions in 2022).
Today's actors face a landscape dramatically different from just a decade ago. Self-tapes have largely replaced in-person auditions, social media following can influence casting decisions and performers increasingly build careers across multiple mediums rather than specializing in just one. The rise of performance capture technology has created entirely new acting opportunities, while streaming platforms have sparked a 37% increase in scripted content since 2018. As virtual production techniques continue advancing, actors who can adapt to performing in tech-heavy environments might find themselves with a distinct advantage in the years ahead.
Junior Actor Resume Example
Elijah Torres
Los Angeles, CA | (213) 555-8764 | elijah.torres@email.com | linkedin.com/in/elijahtorres
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Versatile actor with training in method acting and 2 years of experience in theater, commercials, and independent films. Skilled in character development and improvisation with a natural ability to adapt to various roles. Recently completed a supporting role in an indie feature film while continuing to build my portfolio through local theater productions.
EXPERIENCE
Supporting Actor – Riverdale Theater Company, Los Angeles, CA (June 2023 – Present)
- Perform in 3 weekly shows of “The Glass Menagerie,” receiving 91% positive audience reviews
- Collaborate with the director and cast members to develop authentic character interpretations
- Memorized a 14-page script in under 5 days when replacing another actor on short notice
- Assist with promotional activities including social media content creation and local radio interviews
Actor – Westside Studios, Los Angeles, CA (August 2022 – May 2023)
- Featured in 4 local commercials for regional businesses, including a holiday campaign for Pacific Mall
- Participated in table reads and character workshops to refine performance techniques
- Worked with a dialect coach to master a Southern accent for a period piece short film
- Maintained flexible availability for last-minute auditions and callbacks, securing roles in 27% of auditions
Production Assistant/Background Actor – Sundown Productions, San Diego, CA (January 2022 – July 2022)
- Served as both PA and background actor on independent film “Midnight Run,” gaining valuable on-set experience
- Assisted with script supervision and continuity tracking during filming
- Performed background roles in 3 scenes, later promoted to a speaking role with 2 lines
- Supported crew with equipment setup and breakdown, developing understanding of production logistics
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater – California State University, Long Beach (2021)
- Concentration: Performance Studies
- Relevant Coursework: Method Acting, Voice & Movement, Script Analysis, Improvisation
- Performed in 5 student productions including lead role in “A Streetcar Named Desire”
Professional Training & Workshops
- Meisner Technique Intensive – The Actors Workshop, Los Angeles (2023)
- On-Camera Acting for Commercials – Screen Actors Guild Foundation (2022)
- Voice-Over Fundamentals Certificate – Voice Acting Academy (2022)
SKILLS
- Character Development
- Improvisation
- Script Analysis
- Voice Modulation
- Accent Work (Southern, British RP, New York)
- Stage Combat (Basic)
- Cold Reading
- Teleprompter Reading
- On-Camera Technique
- Basic Singing (Baritone)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Physical Characteristics: Height: 5’11” | Weight: 165 lbs | Hair: Brown | Eyes: Hazel
Special Skills: Horseback riding, swimming, basic guitar, conversational Spanish
Mid-level Actor Resume Example
OLIVIA BENNETT
Los Angeles, CA 90046 | (323) 555-7842 | olivia.bennett@email.com
Instagram: @oliviabennettactor | IMDB: imdb.me/oliviabennett
Versatile actor with 5+ years of professional stage and screen experience. Trained in method acting and classical techniques with a knack for authentic character development. Strong comedic timing and dramatic range demonstrated across independent films, regional theater, and network television. SAG-AFTRA member since 2019.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Guest Star/Recurring Roles | Various Productions | 2020-Present
- Portrayed Detective Samantha Wells in 3 episodes of NBC’s “Midnight Watch” (2022)
- Guest starred as Miranda Cole in CBS’s “Medical Response” (2021), receiving callback for future episodes
- Appeared in supporting role for Netflix original film “The Winter Song” (2020)
- Performed all stunts and choreography for action sequence in “Midnight Watch” after just 6 days of training
Company Member | Westside Repertory Theater | 2018-2022
- Performed in 7 main stage productions including lead role of Beatrice in “Much Ado About Nothing”
- Developed character work through weekly workshops and rehearsals (25+ hours weekly)
- Collaborated with director to reimagine Shakespeare’s Lady Macbeth in modern corporate setting
- Mentored 3 junior company members in voice and movement techniques
Commercial Actor | Freelance | 2017-Present
- Appeared in 12+ national commercials for brands including Toyota, Kohl’s, and Blue Cross
- Booked 4 voice-over roles for radio and animation projects
- Maintained consistent booking rate of 1:5 auditions (industry average 1:15)
Ensemble Member | Harbor Lights Summer Theater | Summer 2017
- Performed in “Guys and Dolls” and “Our Town” as part of summer stock program
- Assisted with set changes and costume maintenance between shows
- Participated in community outreach programs, teaching theater basics to local children
EDUCATION & TRAINING
BFA in Acting | UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television | 2017
Meisner Technique Intensive | Sandford Acting Studio | 2019
Voice & Speech Training | Linklater Center | 2018
On-Camera Acting Workshop | The Groundlings | 2020
SKILLS
- Accents: British (RP), Southern, New York, Irish
- Stage Combat (Level II certification)
- Intermediate Ballet & Jazz Dance
- Sight Reading
- Cold Reading
- Teleprompter Proficient
- Basic Stunts
- Singing (Alto/Mezzo-Soprano)
- Horseback Riding
- Improv (3 years training)
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Height: 5’7″ | Hair: Brunette | Eyes: Green | Vocal Range: Alto/Mezzo-Soprano
Senior / Experienced Actor Resume Example
SYDNEY MORGAN
Los Angeles, CA | (323) 555-9876 | smorgan@actmail.com | linkedin.com/in/sydneymorgan
Versatile character actor with 11+ years bringing complex roles to life across film, television, and stage productions. SAG-AFTRA member with specialized training in method acting, dialect work, and classical theater. Recognized for emotional range and collaborative spirit on set. Regular booking actor for both supporting roles in major studio productions and lead roles in independent films.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Working Actor | Freelance | Los Angeles, CA | 2016-Present
- Secured supporting roles in 3 network television dramas (NBC’s “The Night Shift,” CBS’s “Blue Bloods,” Fox’s “9-1-1”) through competitive audition processes
- Played lead role in indie film “Broken Strings” (2019), which screened at 7 film festivals including SXSW and earned $1.2M in limited theatrical release
- Performed in 14 national commercials for brands including Toyota, Verizon, and Progressive Insurance, generating consistent residual income
- Collaborated with directors to develop character backstories and motivations, contributing to more nuanced performances (got nice feedback from David Fincher about this!)
- Maintained physical versatility through specialized training, enabling transformative roles ranging from military personnel to corporate executives
Company Member | Westside Repertory Theater | Los Angeles, CA | 2013-2018
- Performed in 11 productions over 5 years, including lead roles in “Death of a Salesman,” “A Streetcar Named Desire,” and “Doubt”
- Developed vocal techniques for projection and clarity in 350-seat theater without amplification
- Led 3 workshop sessions for younger company members on character development and scene analysis
- Participated in community outreach programs, performing scenes at local schools and community centers
Guest Actor | Various Productions | New York, NY | 2012-2015
- Landed recurring role (8 episodes) on HBO’s “The Newsroom” as staff writer character
- Performed in off-Broadway production of “Rabbit Hole” (83 performances)
- Featured in 2 independent films that premiered at Tribeca Film Festival
- Served as understudy for supporting role in Broadway revival of “The Glass Menagerie”
EDUCATION & TRAINING
MFA, Acting | Yale School of Drama | New Haven, CT | 2012
BA, Theater Arts | Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | 2009
Specialized Training:
- Meisner Technique Intensive with Robert Carnegie (2017)
- On-Camera Acting Workshop with Lesly Kahn (2015-2016)
- Voice & Dialect Training with Patricia Fletcher (2014)
- Stage Combat Certification, Society of American Fight Directors (2013)
SKILLS
- Performance: Method acting, improvisation, character development, emotional recall, physical comedy
- Technical: Teleprompter proficiency, green screen work, motion capture experience
- Vocals: Baritone singing range, British (RP), Southern American, New York, and Irish dialects
- Physical: Stage combat, horseback riding, intermediate ballroom dancing, basic gymnastics
- Languages: Conversational Spanish, basic French
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
SAG-AFTRA Member since 2013 | Height: 6’0″ | Hair: Brown | Eyes: Hazel
Special Skills: Juggling, classical guitar, can cry on cue (left eye first, weirdly enough)
How to Write an Actor Resume
Introduction
Your acting resume is often your first audition. Casting directors typically spend just 6-8 seconds scanning it before deciding if you're worth a callback. Unlike corporate resumes, actor resumes follow specific industry conventions that showcase your unique talents and experience. This guide will walk you through creating a resume that gets you in the room where it happens.
Remember: Your headshot and resume work as a team. Make sure they tell the same story about your "type" and capabilities.
Resume Structure and Format
Actor resumes differ from traditional business resumes in several key ways:
- Keep it to one page (8x10 inches) – casting directors won't read more
- Use clean, readable fonts (Arial, Times New Roman, Helvetica)
- Include your name, contact info, union affiliations, and physical stats
- Organize credits by medium (film, television, theater, commercials)
- List your height, weight, hair color, eye color, and vocal range
- Include agent/manager contact information (if applicable)
Your physical characteristics matter for casting purposes, but don't include age or birthdate – this can lead to unconscious bias. Instead, include your "age range" (what ages you can realistically portray).
Profile/Summary Section
Unlike corporate resumes, actor resumes rarely include objective statements. Your "type" and abilities should be immediately clear from your credits and skills. If you're just starting out, you might include a very brief professional summary highlighting your training and special skills.
Example: "Classical theater-trained actor with sword fighting certification and conversational Spanish. Specializes in period dramas and physical comedy."
Professional Experience
List your credits in reverse chronological order within each category (film, TV, theater, etc.). The standard format is:
- Production Title – Role – Director/Production Company
- "Hamlet" – Laertes – Dir. Sarah Johnson/Phoenix Theater
- "Law & Order: SVU" – Witness #2 – NBC/Wolf Entertainment
For film/TV, indicate whether your role was a lead, supporting, or featured extra. For theater, note if it was Broadway, Off-Broadway, regional, or community. If you're new, include student films, web series, and community theater – just label them accurately.
Education and Training
Acting is a craft that requires training. Include relevant education:
- Formal degrees (BFA/MFA in Acting, Theater, etc.)
- Conservatory programs (2-year Meisner training, etc.)
- Workshops with notable teachers (list the teacher's name)
- Specialized training (improv at UCB, on-camera technique)
If you studied with someone well-known in the industry (Stella Adler, Uta Hagen's proteges), highlight that connection. For newer actors, this section might be more prominent than your credits section.
Special Skills
This often-overlooked section can get you called in for roles requiring specific abilities. Be honest but comprehensive:
- Languages (with proficiency level)
- Accents/dialects (only list what you can do convincingly)
- Musical instruments
- Dance styles and training
- Combat/stage fighting certifications
- Sports/athletic abilities
- Unique skills (juggling, fire eating, skateboarding)
Don't list basic skills everyone has (driving a car) unless you have professional training (stunt driving certification).
Keywords and Casting Director Tips
Many casting offices use digital systems to search for actors with specific traits. Include these keywords naturally in your resume:
- Your "type" (ingenue, character actor, leading man)
- Performance styles (method, classical, improv)
- Specialized training (Viewpoints, Suzuki, Alexander)
- Union affiliations (SAG-AFTRA, AEA, ACTRA)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Lying about credits or skills (you will get caught)
- Using non-standard formatting that's hard to scan
- Including background/extra work as featured roles
- Listing irrelevant non-acting jobs
- Going over one page
- Using photos on the resume itself (attach your headshot separately)
Before/After Example
Before: "Played Man #3 in 'City Nights' movie, 2022"
After: "City Nights" – Featured (Man #3) – Dir. James Wilson/Paramount
The second version follows industry standard formatting and provides more useful context about the production's legitimacy and your role's significance.
Finally, print your resume on good quality paper and always bring several copies to auditions. The acting world still runs on physical materials, and being prepared shows professionalism. Break a leg!
Related Resume Examples
Soft skills for your Actor resume
- Cold reading and script analysis – quickly interpreting material and making strong choices with limited prep time
- Emotional resilience – bouncing back from rejection while maintaining confidence (auditioned for 47 roles to book 6 last year)
- Collaborative problem-solving – finding creative solutions with directors and fellow actors during tight rehearsal schedules
- Physical storytelling – communicating complex emotions through body language and facial expressions
- Self-direction and initiative – managing personal brand and career trajectory between representation changes
- Active listening – responding authentically to scene partners even after 12+ takes
Hard skills for your Actor resume
- Stage Combat (Rapier & Dagger certification from SAFD)
- Dialect Proficiency (RP, Cockney, Southern American, Brooklyn)
- Intermediate Tap & Jazz Dance
- Self-Tape Production & Editing (Final Cut Pro)
- Sightreading for Commercial Voiceover
- Teleprompter Reading at 175+ WPM
- Meisner & Stanislavski Technique Application
- Stunt Wire Work (Up to 25ft falls)
- SAG-AFTRA Member in Good Standing since 2017