Advice

Paranoia, Phonies and 'Phrauds'

When my visibility went from 'that guy behind the audition table' to Paul Russell, I fully realized just how cautious actors are about relatively unknown casting and other opportunities.

Don't Ask, Don't Tell

There is one part of their true being that actors never, ever reveal. They guard this truth with all their might. Not even Jack Bauer could get them to confess it. Yes, I'm talking about an actor's age.

Welcome. Now Stop Working.

I was told that I was not allowed to accept any nonunion work whatsoever, even if it wasn't officially under AFTRA's jurisdiction.

Just Say No

Wait a minute, you say. These sound like reasonable expenses. Why aren't they valid? Simple. All the above expenses aren't deductible because everyone has them.

When Does An Actor Need a Financial Planner?

"Immediately! Anyone who is devoting his or her life to a career like acting, in which 2.5 percent of those trained in it make their living at it, needs financial planning." -- Erin Burns

Don't Be a $tarving Arti$t

Once my clients begin generating substantial income, I have another job as well: advising them on how to protect their assets and avoid pitfalls that may deplete their wealth.

Irene Park

After working for four years in New York for "corporate America," Irene Park decided to return to Los Angeles and pursue her true love.

Life as a Character Actor

People ask, "Why do you like doing so many different characters?" I always answer, "Why wouldn't you?" That's why you got into acting in the first place.

Teacher Education, Partner Objection

"I realize that homeschooling isn't for everyone, but it seems like a good way for child actors to have consistent teachers."

Commercial Myths Busted

My face dropped when I walked in and discovered that the copy was not up on a card. So I clumsily improvised my way through the audition, since I hadn't memorized all the lines.