Before “Mad Men,” Jon Hamm was largely unknown with a resume of bit parts to his name. Seven seasons and eight Emmy nominations later, he is one of the defining faces of prestige television. The small screen can send you into the stratosphere, but breaking into the TV industry is no simple task.
Whether you're dreaming of starring in a prime-time drama or playing the funniest character in a sitcom, understanding how to get on TV is your first step. Here are our tips for navigating this complex but exciting journey.
Develop yourself as an actor
When figuring out how to get on TV shows, start by looking in the mirror. The foundation of a successful TV career naturally begins with your experience and skills. Identify your type. Practice consistently—particularly when it comes to on-camera acting—and build a compelling reel with local filmmakers and theater productions. Invest in professional headshots that’ll capture your good side. And maybe most important, watch TV! Keep your eyes on industry trends and take notes of niches you can fill, be it with your particular look or a valuable skill like speaking multiple languages or dancing. (After all, Ryan Gosling got his start shaking his stuff on “The Mickey Mouse Club.”)
Look out for different avenues to stardom
There is no one tried-and-true path to getting on TV. Be proactive and versatile in your search for roles. Browse casting platforms like Backstage for drama and comedy gigs, yes, but also think about other avenues. If your personality is part of your package, are you interested in hosting? What about reality TV? Stand-up comedy and improv are proven routes to TV stardom. Also, remember that no role is too small. Actor Sean Gunn was hired for a one-episode guest part in the “Gilmore Girls” pilot before getting cast as another character for the remaining seven seasons.
Find an agent you love
A reputable and dedicated agent is an actor’s best friend. Once you find one that works for you, they’ll be the key to unlocking doors you didn’t even know existed. They have the insider knowledge and network to find opportunities that might elude an actor who doesn’t know the industry quite as well. An agent’s job is to make those connections on your behalf and find the opportunities, auditions, and meetings you’ll need. Even if you’re at the very beginning of your career, don’t lose hope—check out our guide to getting repped with no experience.
Become great at auditioning
If you want to get on TV, you’re going to have to audition…a lot. John Krasinski has been open about almost quitting acting during a long run of disappointments right before his breakout on “The Office.” Getting good at the process is an art in itself. Understand that auditioning is more than just performing; it's about connecting with the character and the casting director. Research the part, the project, and the people creating the show. Familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of self-taping, too. It’s not about being perfect. Bella Ramsey booked their Emmy-nominated role on “The Last of Us” with “terrible lighting” and their British mother attempting an American accent off-screen. Prepare diligently for each audition, be adaptable, and always seek feedback so you can keep refining your approach.
Network, network, network
In the entertainment industry, who you know is as important as how well you perform. Attend events, workshops, and film festivals to network with industry insiders. Ask your more experienced peers where the important conversations are happening and who the key players are. Just a few friendly words in the right ear could lead to your first role on TV.
Become an extra
Never look down on background opportunities. Not only are extra roles available to virtually every entry-level actor, but it’s also a fantastic way to familiarize yourself with the workings of a TV set and the dynamics of shooting. Getting yourself onto productions as an extra might just lead to opportunities that you would’ve otherwise missed. If you catch a director or casting director’s eye, they might offer you roles on future projects.
Give your all to every opportunity
Once you start landing roles, no matter the size, your attitude and performance on set will determine your career trajectory. Be professional, take direction well, and be open to learning from everyone around you. Your first TV appearances are not just about showcasing your talent; it’s also about building a reputation as a reliable and adaptable actor.
Breaking into TV requires a mix of talent, persistence, and strategy. From developing your acting skills and creating a solid portfolio to mastering auditions and networking effectively, each step—whether forward or back—is an opportunity to learn and grow.