Actors often seek creative and flexible side hustles to complement their careers, so we've gathered insights from founders and a senior editor to give you a taste of what's out there. From making guest appearances at events to launching a YouTube channel, explore these six recommended side hustles that could support an actor's income.
As an actor, pursuing success in a competitive industry can often lead to exploring alternative sources of income. Side hustles provide a valuable opportunity for actors to support themselves financially and nurture their creativity and skill set. In this guide, we will delve into some lucrative side hustle ideas tailored for actors looking to enhance their career and financial stability.
Embracing the Gig Economy
In today's gig economy, actors have the flexibility to leverage their creative talents in various ways beyond traditional roles. One popular side hustle for actors is offering voiceover services for commercials, audiobooks, or animations. With a unique ability to breathe life into characters through their voice, actors can tap into a growing market demand for captivating audio content.
Explore Voice-Over Opportunities
For actors looking to supplement their income with a side hustle, I would highly recommend exploring voice-over work. This versatile and lucrative opportunity not only aligns seamlessly with an actor's skill set but also offers the flexibility and remote nature that can be challenging to find in traditional side gigs.
The demand for professional voice talent is vast, spanning industries such as audiobook narration, corporate training videos, video game character voices, and even AI assistant voice recordings. With the rise of podcasting, e-learning platforms, and multimedia content, the need for dynamic and compelling vocal performances has skyrocketed.
Moreover, many voice-over platforms and agencies allow for project-based or hourly work, enabling actors to take on gigs that fit seamlessly around their primary acting commitments and audition schedules. This flexibility ensures that their side hustle complements rather than detracts from their core pursuit of acting opportunities.
Brian Meiggs, Founder, My Millennial Guide
Monetizing Creative Skills
Creating and selling e-books or scripts can be a rewarding side hustle for actors with a passion for writing. By drawing on their storytelling expertise, actors can craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences across different mediums. This side hustle generates passive income and allows actors to showcase their writing abilities and expand their creative portfolio.
Become a UGC Creator
A great side hustle for actors would be to become a UGC creator. Actors already possess the necessary skills and portfolio for this role.
It pays beginners an average of $150 per video, which can increase to $350 per video as you gain more experience. Your UGC will be used in ads, product pages, and social media content. This provides additional income and directly contributes to expanding your portfolio.
Victor Hsi, Founder, UGC Creator Community
Personal Branding through Social Media
In an age where social media influencers hold significant sway, actors can capitalize on their personal brand to monetize their online presence. By creating engaging content on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok, actors can attract a wider audience and collaborations with brands. From sponsored posts to promoting products related to the entertainment industry, social media offers actors a versatile platform to showcase their talent and increase their earning potential.
Launch a YouTube Channel
Starting a YouTube channel can be beneficial for actors. This platform allows them to showcase their talent, creativity, and personality while building an online presence.
Creating content such as vlogs, skits, or acting tips can attract a broad audience and open up monetization opportunities through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise.
Additionally, it provides valuable experience in front of the camera, enhancing their acting skills and portfolio.
Andy Hathaway, Google Ads Specialist, Clarity PPC
Leveraging Online Platforms
With the rise of online marketplaces, actors can explore opportunities to sell their artwork, merchandise, or personalized services. Platforms like Etsy or Fiverr offer actors a space to showcase their creativity through handmade crafts, custom artwork, or virtual acting classes. By tapping into these digital marketplaces, actors can reach a global audience and diversify their sources of income.
Pursue Freelance Writing
Freelance writing is a great side hustle for actors because it can be done at home and offers a lot of flexibility, allowing for long hours at rehearsals or last-minute auditions.
Also, because actors live and breathe words—they literally breathe life into the words of the script as their life’s work—they should be able to put their thoughts down in writing fairly naturally and with great skill.
Finally, actors have to empathize with the characters they are playing, and empathy is an enormous part of writing well, regardless of the assignment or piece of content one is creating.
Phillip Mandel, Owner, Mandel Marketing
Make Guest Appearances at Events
I would recommend an actor consider making guest appearances at events like comic conventions. It's a fantastic way to engage with fans and earn extra income. These events are often filled with enthusiasts eager to meet their favourite stars, and actors can capitalize on this by charging for autographs, photos, or even small performances.
Moreover, it's not just about the money; in fact, it's a chance to connect with your audience on a personal level. This interaction can lead to a loyal fanbase that supports your primary and side projects. And it's a fun break from the usual routine of auditions and sets.
Plus, these appearances can lead to networking opportunities with other industry professionals, potentially opening doors to new roles and collaborations. It's a side hustle that not only benefits your wallet but also your career and personal growth.
Phil McParlane, Founder and CEO, 4DayWeekJobs
Conclusion
Side hustles for actors offer a gateway to financial stability, creative fulfilment, and career growth. By embracing diverse opportunities beyond traditional acting roles, actors can expand their skill set, build their personal brand, and unlock new avenues for success. Whether through voiceover work, writing ventures, social media influence, coaching, or online platforms, actors can carve out a rewarding side hustle that complements their acting career. Remember, the key to success lies in embracing innovation, honing your talents, and seizing opportunities to thrive in the dynamic world of entertainment.