How to Get Big Acting Roles: Strategies for Success in Hollywood

By Steve Dez •  Updated: 10/16/23 •  7 min read

Sharing is caring!

Table of Contents



Welcome to the world of acting, where big dreams become realities. Today, we’ll be discussing how to get big acting roles by building crucial skills and finding a manager who believes in your talent.

Key takeaways include leveraging connections and utilizing online casting tools, as well as mastering the art of auditioning. We will also look at how you can use talent showcases and social media platforms for greater exposure.

Understanding the intricate behind-the-scenes roles in film and television is also crucial. You must seize every opportunity to gain real-world experience – joining local playhouses or university drama societies facilitates this growth.

In Hollywood, persistence pays off, but be ready for challenges as an acting career requires serious commitment. This post is here to guide you every step of the way, so let’s get started.

Best for Beginners
Dezperate Actor - Cracking The Hollywood Code
$97

Designed to help you catapult your career to new heights without compromising your art, all while building a profitable and purposeful acting empire.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

how to get big acting roles

Building Acting Skills and Finding a Manager

How to get big acting roles? The journey starts with building your acting skills. By the way, remember, it’s not just about natural talent but cultivating it with sheer hard work. Regularly attending acting classes or workshops can be greatly beneficial to polish your craft. Now that I think about it, having a good manager or agent can also play an instrumental role in shaping up your acting career. Rather than jumping right into the big leagues, consider starting with smaller agencies that specialize in nurturing talents that are still green behind their ears. These agencies can help you land auditions for smaller jobs and thus allow you to hone your chops.

Leveraging Connections and Harnessing Online Casting Tools

In the Hollywood landscape, networking is equally important as skill-building. Leverage your connections within the industry by asking acting coaches, fellow actors or friends about opportunities around. Utilize online casting tools diligently and keep an eye out for casting calls suitable for your skills set through popular platforms like Actors Access and LA Casting.

Mastering the Art of Auditioning

Audition Preparation, you see, is integral to landing lead roles. Always be ready to audition – whether for small roles or large ones – by researching extensively about the part beforehand. In any case, don’t forget to maintain punctuality at audition venues.All things considered,a positive attitude goes a long way in this industry so always be cordial with everyone you meet during this process.

Using Talent Showcases and Social Media for Exposure

Talent showcases are great platforms where new talents like yourself can get noticed by casting directors. Many agents hold open auditions at such events, thus it’s a great opportunity to showcase your skills. Additionally, using social media platforms to find open casting calls is a smart strategy for getting jobs as an actor.

Understanding Behind-the-Scenes Roles in Film and Television

If you’re keen on pursuing a career in acting, having some understanding of behind-the-camera roles such as screenwriting or directing can give you an edge over others. This additional perspective on how the industry works can prove to be invaluable.

Experience Gaining: Joining Local Playhouses and University Drama Societies

To build an impressive resume, actively seek out opportunities at small playhouses & theaters or university drama societies. Even minor roles like playing extras can add significant value to your experience. Remember, every role regardless of its size is a stepping stone towards landing big acting roles!

The Power of Persistence in Hollywood

Persistence is key when attempting to break into Hollywood; many successful actors started with minor roles before landing their big break! So don’t shy away from any legitimate audition – every interaction with the casting directors and producers is a chance for you to make an impression.

Comprehending the Challenges and Commitments of an Acting Career

Last but not the least, understand that acting is not just glamor but also sweat and tears. It requires immense hard work, patience and resilience.If you’re committed to it though, your efforts will eventually pay off! In conclusion,pursuing a career in acting might seem daunting initially but if this is what you want – then go ahead and seize it!

how to get big acting roles

Best Seller - Special Deal
Dezperate Actor - Bundled Special!
$148

This is the special Bundle of our Flagship Programs in one for a discount! Don't miss your opportunity to get the mentorship and online guidance you need to become an actor today. Includes Dezperate Actor - Cracking the Hollywood Code + Dezperate Actor 2.8 - Representation on Demand

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

While navigating the path to land big acting roles, it’s crucial to understand your career trajectory and formulate a strategic approach. In the post, “Establishing an acting career for actors”, you can discover practical steps to streamline your efforts in the acting industry.

Being a successful actor is not limited to those in Hollywood or New York; as revealed in the post “How to become an actor if you don’t live in LA”, opportunities exist everywhere, and nurturing your craft independently can lead you to significant roles.

Moreover, getting comprehensively ready for auditions is critical. Besides possessing talent and charisma, understanding what casting directors are looking for is essential. In this regard, the post on “What do I need for an acting audition?” provides insights that can help prepare you extensively for auditions and improve your chances of landing big roles.

It’s also beneficial to expand your knowledge about different aspects of the industry by participating in significant events such as major festivals. Immersing yourself in the communal atmosphere at these gatherings often translates into networking opportunities that could lead you onto bigger stages. The post on “What are the major acting festivals actors need to know?” offers a look into some top global festivals every ambitious actor should consider attending.

Done For You! - Just Replace with your Information
Acting Resumé Templates
$9 - $12

Our acting resume templates are specifically designed to showcase your talents and highlight your experiences in the industry.

With a polished and professional resume, you can stand out to casting directors and increase your chances of landing your next big role.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

My Personal Take about How To Get Big Acting Roles

Hey there my friend! I’m Steve Dez, your go-to expert in all things Hollywood acting and Actor Marketing & Business. You see, I’ve been in this industry for a good long while, and believe me when I say, it’s been a journey of learning and growth.

If you’re wondering how to get big acting roles, then you’ve come to the right place.

Now that I think about it, one key strategy that’s worked for me is nurturing relationships with directors, producers, and fellow actors. Why is this so important? Well quite simply because opportunities often sprout from connections you make in the industry. So don’t shy away from making new friends!

In any case, remember to consistently hone your craft. Take acting classes regularly or consider hiring a coach. Dedication and commitment never go unnoticed in this business- they are often the stepping-stones towards landing big roles.

All things considered, becoming successful in Hollywood is no easy feat but if there’s one thing I can promise you – it’s absolutely worth it! Just imagine walking down the red carpet with flashlights beaming at you from every direction while throngs of fans cheer your name! So press on my friend! Your journey may be challenging but remember that Hollywood has room for everyone who dares to dream big.

Mentorship on the Go
Dezperate Actor - Coaching For Actors Online Program
$79

Coaching for actors focused on marketing can help actors develop strategies for promoting themselves and their work to agents, casting directors, and other industry professionals.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best Bundle Deal - Exclusive Price
Dezperate Actor - Complete Edition Program
$198

The Complete Edition is the ultimate bundle designed to give actors the tools and knowledge they need to effectively promote themselves and succeed in the competitive world of acting. It includes - The Dezperate Actor - Cracking the Hollywood Code Program, Dezperate Actor 2.8 - Representation on Demand, Dezperate Actor - Coaching For Actors Online Program + Bonuses


We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Before you go…

Takeaway 1

Your acting journey starts with building your skills and finding an agent or manager. Starting with smaller agencies that specialize in supporting newbies in the industry can be a great stepping-stone. Over time and with improvement in skills, you’ll attract more high-profile agents to land bigger roles.

Takeaway 2

In this industry, it’s crucial to leverage your connections. Ask around if anyone knows about any acting opportunities. Use online casting tools and keep an eye out for casting calls that match your skill set. Audition as much as possible – being present, prepared and positive is key during this process. Attend talent showcases where open auditions are often held and use social media platforms to find more opportunities.

Takeaway 3

Persistence is crucial. Start by gaining experience at local theaters or join drama societies at the university level. Even minor roles count towards valuable experience. And remember, most successful names in Hollywood started with small gigs before hitting it big! Lastly, make sure this is what you truly want as acting requires hard work, patience, resilience but if you’re dedicated enough – your efforts will pay off.

While trying to get big acting roles, knowing how to present yourself is crucial. Like discussed in What Kind of Headshots Do I Need for Acting, often your first introduction to a casting director is through your headshot and resume. Your headshot should reflect your best look, and it’s the first thing that casting directors use to gauge if you’re fit for a role. Having a professional, appealing headshot can make all the difference in whether or not you’re considered for big acting roles.

Similarly, preparing for an audition properly can increase your chances of getting such opportunities. Our post on What Do I Need For An Acting Audition, goes over the essentials that should be at the top of every actor’s checklist when going into an audition. This includes familiarizing yourself with the character and script, bringing multiple copies of your headshot and resume among other things. The better prepared you are during auditions, the higher your chances are at scoring big acting roles.

Best Seller
Dezperate Actor 2.8 - Representation on Demand Online Program
$98

As you progress in your career, you're going to need Representation and what better way to obtain it than by following a proven system that works in landing you the best agents, managers, publishers and more! This online program will help you get closer to your goals in being a working professional Hollywood Actor.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Sharing is caring!

Steve Dez

I am the founder of Dezperate Actor® and I have been in the acting and entertainment industry since 2011. Since then, my mission is to make acting and breaking into Hollywood easy for everyone. And each year, I continue to help more people with acting tips, resources, coaching and online courses.

Keep Reading