Only 2% of actors make a living. How do you become one of them?

It’s a notoriously tough profession, so what can you do to avoid being one of the 98%?

A recent study by Queen Mary University of London referred to surveys that showed only 2% of actors make a living from the profession and that 90% are out of work at any one time would be sufficient to have most aspiring thespians reaching for the scotch, if only we could afford a drink in the first place.

but w/ so many actors n so few jobs nowadays,it’s harder than ever togetby. The old regional repertory theatre system that existed in my day has largely disappeared.

Everything now is either loaded down with established stars to ensure ratings,orlast-minute scraps:“One scene as a cop,filming on Friday,£500,no repeat fees.”If there is any cold comfort in these findings,it’s that the same 2% tend to work most of the time,and the remaining 98% hardly at all– so the trick is to make sure you’re in the 2%,and if you’re not,to get out before it’s too late,and the profession eats up your best years.