Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
An Actor is a professional who portrays characters in theater, film, television, and other performing arts mediums. They use their talent and training to bring scripts to life, convey emotions, and connect with audiences.
Education: Some college, no degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Long-term
Projected Growth: 3.2% (average)
Annual job openings: 6 300
Direct AI exposure: 13% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 19% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Actors, Comedians and Circus Performers. According to the wage tables, average income is $50K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $35K per year | $39K per year | $50K per year | $64K per year | $83K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $15K below the national average. | ||||
Actors typically work in diverse settings, including film sets, theaters, television studios, or on location for various projects. The work often involves irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays. Actors may work under varying conditions, from comfortable sound stages to challenging outdoor environments.
Acting is a highly competitive field that requires a combination of talent, training, and perseverance. Actors often start their careers with small roles or in local theater productions, gradually building their skills and reputation. The nature of the work varies widely; some actors may find steady employment in a theater company, while others may work on individual projects, often experiencing periods of unemployment between jobs.
The profession demands more than just talent. Actors must continuously work on their craft, attending workshops and staying informed about acting techniques and trends. Networking and self-marketing are crucial aspects of building a career in acting, as is the ability to handle rejection and criticism constructively.
Actors often experience a deep sense of fulfillment from their work. Bringing characters to life and impacting audiences can be immensely rewarding. However, the uncertainty and irregularity of the work, along with the need for constant self-promotion and auditioning, can be challenging.
Formal education is not strictly required to become an actor, but many pursue a bachelor's degree in theater arts, drama, or a related field, which typically takes 4 years. Extensive training, workshops, and continued skill development are common in this field.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
