Actors
Play parts in stage, television, radio, video, or film productions, or other settings for entertainment, information, or instruction. Interpret serious or comic role by speech, gesture, and body movement to entertain or inform audience. May dance and sing.
SOC: 27-2011.00
Common Job Titles
ActorActressComedianPerformer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeSynthesize historical, cultural, and contextual knowledge into performance choices when researching and preparing diverse roles across genres.Advanced
- Hands-onPerform dramatic roles using speech, gesture, and body movement in stage, television, film, or video productions to entertain and inform audiences.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret character motivations and narrative arcs within scripts by analyzing literary and dramatic elements to create authentic performances.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate social and psychological insights into character development when portraying diverse human experiences across cultural and historical contexts.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply vocal techniques and articulation skills to deliver dialogue clearly and expressively in live and recorded performances.Proficient
- KnowledgeDemonstrate memorization and retention of scripts, blocking, and choreography under time constraints and performance pressure.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate physical actions with emotional expression to convey authentic character experiences in dynamic performance environments.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate audience reactions and performance feedback to adjust delivery and refine characterization for subsequent performances.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate for artistic integrity and character authenticity when navigating creative differences and production constraints.Proficient
- MindsetEngage with directors, fellow actors, and production teams during rehearsals and performances to maintain creative collaboration.Developing
- Hands-onExecute choreographed movement, dance, and stage combat sequences following directorial vision while maintaining safety protocols.Developing
- KnowledgeOperate digital recording equipment and social media platforms for self-taped auditions and professional promotional content.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Actors (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
38,800
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | N/A |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | N/A |
| Workers on average earn | N/A |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Fine Arts4.7/5
- English Language4.3/5
- Communications and Media4.1/5
- Sociology and Anthropology3.4/5
- Psychology3.3/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
FacebookLinuxMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WordTikTokZoom
Technology Skills
Apple Final Cut ProEmail softwareFileMaker ProInstagramLinkedInMotion capture softwareTwitterWeb browser software
Tools & Equipment
Digital still camerasDigital video recordersLaptop computersMP3 digital voice recordersPersonal computersPhotography tripodsTablet computersWireless microphones