Hollywood: How to Plan for the Return in 2025!
Hello Actors and Fellow Entertainers!
It’s been a while since I’ve been able to get a new article out!
With the holiday season around the corner, and the industry slowly churning for a return - I wanted to tackle a topic that I’ve been discussing a lot lately with personal clients, fellow talent agents, managers - pretty much anyone that is involved in show business right now. What in the world is happening and when will we get back to work? Film production has dropped massively in Los Angeles with ‘what is left’ shifting to locations such as Atlanta, New Mexico, and even Vancouver. A time where guest stars were more than fruitful, are now being fought for with little to no wiggle room on offer negotiations. Hollywood is slow right now, but that doesn’t mean you have to be. There is no need to panic. I consider this time to be a blessing in disguise and here is why:
“Hollywood is recalibrating.”
The one positive thing that we know is that Hollywood is recalibrating. People need entertainment. Entertainment will never go anywhere. The networks need time to regenerate funds, regain trust and ad dollars, and land back on it’s feet. The more time that the industry has to recalibrate - the more opportunity for stronger and more compelling content to be created. I want to give you some advice to prepare and get ready for the busy season to come in 2025.
CREATE CONTENT.
Take some time and write down everything that you’re skilled at doing. If you’re into comedy, punch up some jokes. Write some sketches. This is a really great time to work on social media and building your following. I’m sure you’ve probably been told that social media is not that important with your acting career - but it truly.. is. At times, it can be a vital part of a decision to hire so take this time to just put content out, watch your numbers, and keep doing whatever it is that is bringing the viewership. Be consistent with it and set a schedule.
STAY IN CLASS.
I know. It’s an expense that could be used towards your living expenses - but in acting, if you don’t coach and stay fresh - you won’t be ready for the millions of other actors you’ll compete against when it’s back to business. Ask your acting coach for a list of classes that are affordable that you can take. If it’s too expensive, work with your coach and see if they’re willing to help you with a flexible plan. Not only is coaching great for your talent - it’s great for your mental health. Need class recommendations? Jot down in the comments below and I’ll give you a few.
WRITE THAT SCRIPT.
So many great ideas are sat on due to procrastination. Even if it’s an outline, start today. Jot down the basis of your idea and just start free flowing. Don’t worry about punctuation or making it perfect because 9 out of 10 - if you sell the concept, the studio and/or network will redraft your work. If you have a literary agent or manager - consult with them about your idea and they gave you the push needed to expand your idea.
BE CONFIDENT.
You’ve survived COVID where every production was at a complete halt for months. You can navigate a slow period. Start your day with a good breakfast and workout. Self submit on some cool shorts you see online. Work on expanding your rolodex of contacts. There is so much to do during this time. I personally enjoy writing blogs like these and discovering new talent when it’s slower. It’s therapeutic to help entertainers figure out their career. Find out what is therapeutic for you.
As always, I’m here if you need any advice! Jot down in the comments below or send me a personal note if you ever need to talk.