Whether we like it or not, its true that your face is your fortune. If you are Cameron Diaz, Halle Berry, or Brad Pitt, your face can and will open many doors for you; if you are not perceived as beautiful, reviewers might not focus on your acting. This happened to Kathy Bates, where critics like John Simon said things like “its a shame her leading man should play opposite an actress who is enormously overweight. ”
But Bate enjoys an enviable career as an actress (with an Oscar for her work in Misery) and as a director. And she has proven over and over again, that there are a lot of beauties in Hollywood and only one Kathy Bates. Its harder to carve out your niche when you don’t physically fit the Hollywood beauty standard personified by the likes of Angelina, Drew and Julia, but once in, know that they cant just get another pretty face to replace you!
I believe you can look very “off” and still reach all your goals in your career if you work hard and persevere in a focused and determined way. Know your strengths and focus on honing in your talents. Beauty wins, but beauty fades. So dont think of others and their standards, just work hard at being the best you that you can be. And that includes working on your body, on your image, health, but mainly on your skills and professionalism. If you work hard and persevere, your physicality should not be a hindrance to your career.
Does the same apply for height?
Im 5’2 and worry that because of my height I will not be able to get the opportunities of landing any serious or ‘leading’ roles. What do you think?
Thanks
MariaF I think you are extremely lucky because as a female being short is an advantage in Film and TV. Alot of men are short and you can always wear heels if needed. Normally its the tall women who have trouble being paired with leading men who are shorter…
admin: Thank you for your reply, it has really helped me since this has been bothering me for some time..
You seem to know a lot about the business and I have a few queries so I was wondering if you or if the website has an email address where I can get in touch?
Thanks again and Congratulations on a really helpful site!
Hello Admin
I am interested in acting (no kidding, right?) but want to know the serious truth about appearance. I stand 6'1" and weigh 180 lbs., athletically built and I assume decent looking lol My question pertains to a clear complexion. I have adult acne unfortunately and though it is not a lot, it is noticeable when I have a pimple or two. Mainly, however, I have some scarring from acne and believe me, I am working upon reducing this as much as I possibly can via natural methods such as honey and lemon. I would like to know if having a less-than-desirable complexion would basically eliminate my opportunities for becoming an actor, particularly a lead man? I know actors such as Morgan Freeman, Forrest Whitaker, Edward James Olmos, and Laurence Fishburne do not have the "pretty boy" look like Brad Pitt or Tom Cruise, yet they are outstanding lead actors. Is it really about talent or does having at least decent looking skin help? Thank you and Happy New Year!