GARY MASON

443.624.3014

gary@gary-mason.com

Acting

How to Spot a Scam Casting Call

Acting

Hey there, fellow actors—especially those of us who’ve racked up a few more birthdays than your average TikTok sensation. If you’ve decided to chase the dream of acting (finally!), you’re in the right place. But before we get swept away by the glitz and glitter of casting calls, we need to talk about something that isn’t so sparkly: scam casting calls.

They’re out there, prowling like understudies waiting for you to slip up. But don’t worry. With a little street smarts and a healthy dose of skepticism, you can spot the phonies before they ever get near your headshot.

The Rise of Online Casting Calls

The internet has changed everything—from how we shop to how we date—and casting calls are no exception. You used to have to stand in line with a script and nerves of steel. Now, you can audition from your living room (though I still suggest you swap the pajama pants for real clothes).

Convenient? Absolutely. But that convenience also makes it easier for scammers to slip in unnoticed.

According to the Actor Safety Network (2022), about 30% of actors have encountered a scam casting call. That’s almost one in three. So let’s pull back the curtain on some of the most common scams and how to sniff them out.

Common Casting Scams to Watch For

1. Advance Fee Scams

The classic: “You got the part! But first, we need a small fee…” Whether it’s for “paperwork processing,” a “required” workshop, or some mysterious union registration, this is a red flag flapping in the wind.

Rule of thumb?
If they ask for money before offering real work, run—preferably in the opposite direction.

2. Personal Information Grabs

If a casting call is asking for your Social Security number, banking info, or your mom’s maiden name? Slam that virtual door shut. Reputable casting directors care about your performance, not your credit score.

3. Fake Agencies with Real-Looking Sites

Some scammers create fake agencies with slick websites and even fake IMDb links. If you can’t verify them through trusted industry sources or reviews, it’s probably smoke and mirrors.

How to Vet a Casting Call Like a Pro

🕵️ Do Your Research

Before hitting “submit,” run a background check. Google the casting director, the project, and the production company. Use forums, actor Facebook groups, and databases like the Actor Safety Network to see what others are saying.

If the only thing you find is a Gmail address and a vague job post? Proceed with caution.

🧠 Trust Your Gut

If something smells fishy, don’t try to justify it. Too-good-to-be-true roles for big-name productions that magically found you with no effort? Cue the red lights and sirens.

👥 Ask Around

Join acting communities—both online and local. Experienced actors have seen it all and will happily share stories (often over drinks). Learning from their close calls might just save you from your own.

➡️ Want a safer starting point? Grab The Working Actor Starter Kit for trusted sites, smart submission strategies, and a dose of grounded advice.

Online Casting: Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

  • Wider Reach: No more being limited to your zip code.

  • Convenience: Submit tapes on your schedule.

  • Community Feedback: Reviews on platforms can help steer you right.

⚠️ Cons

  • More Scams: Scammers love low-barrier entry points.

  • Less Connection: It’s harder to judge someone’s vibe through a screen.

  • Verification is Tougher: You lose the advantage of real-world context.

In-Person Casting Calls: The Old-School Route

✅ Pros

  • Instant Legitimacy Check: Real people, real offices.

  • Stronger First Impressions: There’s value in shaking someone’s hand and seeing their reaction in real time.

⚠️ Cons

  • Limited Geography: You’re stuck with what’s near you—unless you’re up for travel.

  • Less Frequent: Online’s taken over much of the early audition process.

So What’s the Best Route?

The truth? A mix of both.
Use online platforms smartly and in-person auditions when they make sense. Whichever path you choose, your talent should be front and center—not your credit card.

Keep Learning. Keep Guarding. Keep Going.

Scam prevention starts with education.
Bookmark industry safety resources. Follow casting directors you trust. Stay active in groups that keep each other in the loop.

And don’t forget—technology is both the problem and the solution. As scammers get more creative, so do the tools designed to spot them. (And no, I don’t mean ChatGPT (although that IS one tool in your toolkit).

Final Take: Protect the Dream

The acting world can be tough. But it should never make you feel unsafe, used, or foolish.

So stay sharp. Lead with your talent. And above all, remember: the only drama in your career should be the kind you perform—not the kind that empties your wallet.

🎭 Looking for safe places to start submitting your work?
Check out the Working Actor Starter Kit—built for beginners who want to play smart, not just dream big.

Is It Too Late for Me to Start Acting?

Acting, Encouragement, Getting Started

A Brutally Honest (but Hopeful) Guide for Late Bloomers

So, you’re staring into the mirror asking, “Is it too late for me to start acting?” First off, kudos for even entertaining the idea. Whether you’re 35 or 75, the thought of stepping into the limelight is both exhilarating and—let’s be real—a little terrifying.

Here’s the short answer: No, it’s not too late. In fact, your timing might be better than you think. Let’s unpack the myths, the facts, and the game plan—without any sugarcoating.

The Industry Landscape: A Changing Scene

The Average Age of Actors: Not What You Think

Did you know the average age of working actors in the U.S. is 47? According to SAG-AFTRA data, this industry isn’t just for the young and Botoxed. In fact, there’s rising demand for older actors—especially in commercials, TV, and voiceover work.

Industries like healthcare, finance, and senior lifestyle brands want relatable, mature faces. Translation? You’re not delusional—you’re in demand.

Casting Trends: The Golden Age Range

Casting breakdowns frequently request actors aged 50 to 70+. That’s not a fluke—it’s a trend. Audiences want to see people they actually relate to. Wrinkles, wisdom, life experience? Those are casting gold. Your lived experience becomes your unique selling point, not a drawback.

Not sure how to even begin? My Start Where You Are guide was made for this exact moment—it’s the gentle but clear roadmap I wish I’d had when I started late. Check it out here.

Pros and Cons of Starting Later in Life

The Upside:

  • Breaking Stereotypes:
    Talent, charisma, and lived experience often outshine youth. Forget chasing the “young and pretty” mold—authenticity wins.

  • Data-Backed Hope:
    You’re not dreaming. You’re supported by real numbers and real-world examples.

  • Niche Markets:
    Some roles simply require older actors—reverse mortgage ads, retirement communities, medical dramas, family matriarchs. You’re not competing with 20-year-olds. You’re in your own lane.

The Trade-Offs:

  • Avoiding False Promises:
    No, you’re probably not going to become the next Morgan Freeman (but hey, even he started late). The goal isn’t fame—it’s fulfillment.

  • Emotional Pushback:
    “I’m too old for this” is the mental loop you’ll need to shut down regularly. Growth isn’t comfortable. But neither is regret.

Traditional vs. Modern Thinking

The Old View: “Start Young or Don’t Start at All”

The entertainment world used to worship youth above all else. That belief still echoes in casting rooms and training programs—but it’s fading.

The Modern View: “Experience is Your Edge”

Today’s industry values depth and authenticity. And who better to deliver that than someone who’s lived a little (or a lot)? You’re not faking the tears—you’ve earned them. That gives you a creative advantage.

New here and not sure what to focus on first? My free guide Start Where You Are will help you find your footing without wasting time or money on the wrong things. Grab your copy.

The Elephant in the Room: Gaps and Contradictions

Acting Education Still Skews Young

Many acting schools still gear their training toward 20-somethings trying to break into Hollywood. Frustrating, right? But don’t worry—there are plenty of coaches and programs tailored to mature talent.

And yes, Start Where You Are includes tips on choosing classes that won’t treat you like a college kid or upsell you into a scam.

Visibility Still Lags Behind

While demand is growing, we’re not yet seeing hordes of late-starters in the spotlight. But someone has to lead the charge. Why not you?

Making the Leap: First Steps That Actually Matter

1. Invest in Training
Look for workshops and coaches who understand the unique needs of late-blooming actors. Community theaters and online platforms are often welcoming and flexible.

2. Network Smartly
Join local acting groups. Participate in table reads. Volunteer backstage. Your next opportunity might start over a shared cup of bad coffee.

3. Get Professional Headshots
No glamour shots, no heavy filters. Get headshots that show who you are right now. That’s who casting directors want to see.

4. Start Auditioning—Now
Don’t wait until you “feel ready.” The best way to learn is by doing. Each audition is practice, even if it ends in a “no.”

5. Stay in the Loop
Subscribe to casting sites. Read industry blogs. Keep up with trends. Your awareness can be your edge.

Don’t want to figure it all out from scratch? I built Start Where You Are to help people like us skip the overwhelm. It’s short, practical, and totally free. Get it here.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not a Fantasy—It’s a Path

Starting later in life doesn’t mean you’re late to the game. It means you’ve got something real to offer—perspective, presence, and passion. Sure, it’s a winding path, but it’s yours to walk.

If you’re still wondering whether it’s too late to act, let me say this clearly: The only “too late” is never starting.

The spotlight isn’t just for the young. It’s for the bold. Step into it.

And if you want someone to walk you through those early steps without the fluff or the overwhelm, Start Where You Are is waiting for you. Click here to grab it.

Working With Younger Actors: Lessons From the Age Gap

Acting, Encouragement

Ever shown up on set and realized you’re old enough to be the lead’s parent… or grandparent?

Welcome to acting when you didn’t start at 22. It’s one of those reality checks that hits hard: the kid who just offered you gum between takes has twice your flexibility and half your dental work.

But here’s the surprising upside: working alongside younger actors isn’t just inevitable — it can be one of the best learning experiences you’ll have. And yes, sometimes it’s also a reminder to stretch before lunch.

They’re Fearless in Ways We Forgot

Younger actors, especially those fresh out of school, often have a beautiful, reckless abandon. They’ll try weird line reads, make bizarre choices, throw spaghetti at the wall without caring if it sticks. They’re not bogged down by years of “shoulds” and “what will they think?”

Watching that is a gift. It reminds you that this job is supposed to be fun, messy, unpredictable. If you’ve gotten a little stiff or precious about your choices, let their looseness inspire you.

You’ve Got Experience They Can’t Fake

Flip side: they might be bolder, but you’re probably deeper. You’ve lived stuff they haven’t. Loss, love, disappointment, triumph — it’s etched into your bones and shows up in your eyes whether you try or not.

You bring a gravitas to the work that can’t be taught. That’s why casting loves seasoned actors: there’s a life there. When you deliver a line about heartbreak or raising kids or losing everything, it resonates differently. Lean into that.

Watch How They Handle Tech

Younger actors grew up self-taping, uploading, editing on their phones. They’re quick with ring lights (which you and I are still not using), framing shots, tweaking sound.

Instead of rolling your eyes, learn from them. Ask what apps they use. Watch how they nail framing on the first try. The industry is only getting more DIY — knowing how to shoot a killer tape is crucial.

They’ll Challenge Your Ego (That’s Good)

Let’s be honest: it can be a little bruising to see a 19-year-old come in, sparkle effortlessly, and get praised by the director for “raw honesty.” Meanwhile, you’re sweating under your blazer, hoping your knee doesn’t lock up before they call cut.

That little pang? It’s your ego. And it’s healthy to notice. It means you still care. But don’t let it sour you. Let it push you. Take that as a reminder to keep learning, keep risking, keep playing. You’re not done growing just because you’re older.

Be the Actor You Wish You’d Met at 25

Here’s the best part of working with younger actors: you get to be the generous, warm, open-hearted scene partner you wish you’d met when you were starting out. Share what you know. Be encouraging. Compliment their work. The industry is hard enough without extra snark.

Besides, you never know who’s going to become a casting director, director, or even the next breakout star. Those relationships matter, not just for networking, but for your own sense of community.

It’s All Storytelling — and We Need Every Age

At the end of the day, this isn’t a competition. You’re not fighting them for the same roles. Stories need all of us — young lovers, weary parents, quirky uncles, sharp-tongued neighbors, wise old women. Without older actors, there’s no texture, no history, no stakes.

So when you’re standing next to someone half your age in the makeup chair, instead of feeling awkward, remember: the story needs you both. You bring what they can’t, and they bring what you can’t.

Still Finding Your Place in This Business?

If you’re figuring out how to start or restart your acting career a little later than most, I’ve got a free guide called Start Where You Are. It’ll walk you through how to get rolling (without feeling like an imposter), plus give you some honest perspective on what it really takes to build this thing.

We need your voice. Your age is an asset, not a liability. Don’t forget that.

Are You Sending Mixed Signals With Your Headshots?

Acting, Encouragement, Marketing, Wisdom

Ever look at your headshots and think, “Who is that person? Because it sure doesn’t feel like me.”

You’d be amazed how many actors (especially those of us starting later) sabotage themselves right out of the gate with confusing, outdated, or just plain awkward headshots. And then wonder why they’re not getting called in. It’s like wearing a tuxedo to a backyard barbecue — you might look fantastic, but it’s the wrong signal for the gig.

Your headshot is basically your business card in this industry. It’s the first impression you make, the thing that pops up when casting scrolls through hundreds of thumbnails. And it needs to scream: “This is who I am. This is the story I can tell. You can trust me to walk onto your set and be this person.”

So let’s figure out if yours is doing that — or if it’s quietly torpedoing your chances.

Do Your Headshots Match Your Casting Type?

I’ve seen this so many times. Someone gets gorgeous photos that look like they belong in a fashion magazine — moody lighting, flowing hair, intense gaze. Problem is, they’re most likely to be cast as the friendly next-door neighbor or the dependable nurse.

Your headshots should sell the types you’re actually right for, not the fantasy you wish you could book. If you’re a warm, slightly sarcastic best friend type, show that. If you look like you could be a judge or a CEO, get shots that highlight your authority.

And for the love of coffee, don’t try to cover every possibility in one session. Those “maybe I’m a biker? Maybe I’m a barista? Maybe I’m a royal from 1742?” sessions just confuse casting.

Are Your Photos Current (Like, Actually You Right Now)?

If your hair is now silver but your headshots are chestnut, you’re gonna get side-eye the second you walk in the room. Same goes for weight changes, new glasses, or aging in general (which, by the way, is normal and beautiful and not a problem).

Casting directors aren’t worried about age — they’re worried about surprise. They want to know that the person walking in matches the person on the JPEG. Keep your shots updated every couple years, or any time you make a major change.

Do They Feel Like You?

Your headshots shouldn’t feel like an awkward prom portrait. They should feel like someone could have snapped them on your best day. Natural, relaxed, authentic. The more your essence shines through — that spark that makes people say, “Oh yeah, that’s Gary” — the more likely you are to get called in.

That means working with a photographer who gets it. Someone who talks to you, pulls you out of your head, captures your vibe. (No need to be a mannequin with forced expressions. You’re an actor. Act like yourself.)

Are You Showing Range (But Not Chaos)?

It’s smart to have a couple different looks that fit your type: maybe one warm and approachable, one with a little more edge. But keep it all on-brand. Don’t do a glamour shot, a hunting lodge camo shot, and a law firm partner shot all in the same portfolio. That’s just confusing.

Think about the roles you’re most likely to book — then tailor your shots to that. Make it easy for casting to slot you into a story.

Be Honest With Yourself (Or Ask Someone Who Will Be)

Sometimes we’re too close to our own faces to judge. If you’re not sure whether your headshots are helping or hurting, ask your acting coach, your agent, or even a brutally honest friend. Show them your shots and your self-submissions. Ask: “Would you call me in for these roles based on these photos?”

You might learn that the picture you love most is actually the least effective. It stings, but wouldn’t you rather know now?

Ready to Tighten Up Your Branding?

Your headshots are a huge piece of your actor brand. If you’re not crystal clear on your type — or how to figure it out so your photos don’t send mixed signals — that’s exactly what we cover in my Working Actor Starter Kit. It walks you through defining your brand, getting the right shots, and building a package that makes casting directors pay attention.

The short version?
Make sure your headshots look like you, sell the stories you’re right for, and give casting the confidence to say, “Yep, that’s our person.”

Why Stage Work Still Matters (Even If You’re Focused on Film & TV)

Acting, Encouragement, Wisdom

Confession:
I didn’t come up through the theater world. My first serious training was on-camera — which is a polite way of saying I used to treat stage work like it was a quaint hobby for people who didn’t know how to hit a mark.

But here’s the hard truth that punched me in the ego:
Stage work will make you a better film and TV actor. Period.

Yeah, yeah, I know. You’re probably thinking, “I’m too old to be learning new tricks,” or “I don’t want to memorize a whole two-hour play for an audience of twelve people and a squeaky chair.” Fair. But if you’re serious about leveling up as an actor — and actually getting booked — you can’t afford to dismiss the theater.

Let’s break down why.

Stage Work Builds Muscles the Camera Can’t See

Film is about the eyes, the tiny flickers, the mic catching every micro-sigh. The stage? It demands your entire body, your voice, your breath control. It’s a full-contact sport.

When you do theater, you learn to:

  • Project and sustain energy for two hours straight.

  • Physically embody a character from head to toe.

  • Stay present and reactive without an editor to bail you out.

Even if your next gig is a two-line co-star on CSI: Retirement Village, all of that bleeds into your on-camera work. You’ll be more grounded, alive, and interesting. That’s what books jobs.

You Can’t “Call Cut” Onstage

In film, you can flub a line, crack a smile, adjust your scarf, and they’ll fix it in post. Not so much in theater. If you blank out on stage, you’ve got to keep moving. That forces you to develop real-time problem-solving chops — and confidence.

Because once you survive forgetting your lines under hot lights in front of a live audience?
Self-taping in your living room becomes a breeze.

It’s the Best Acting Class You’ll Ever Take

Seriously. Even the most advanced acting workshops can’t replicate what it’s like to live inside a story, night after night. You get to explore the same character in new ways every performance, responding to different audiences, discovering new beats.

That kind of repetition and discovery is gold for your craft. If you’re working on becoming more castable (or just more interesting to watch), there’s nothing like it.

If you’re not sure where to start building those skills, my Working Actor Starter Kit is a solid foundation. It’ll walk you through finding training, getting your first credits, and figuring out your brand — so by the time you step onstage, you’re not guessing.

You Build Community (Which You’ll Need in This Business)

Let’s be real. Acting can be lonely. Especially if you’re starting a little later, or if your family and friends think you’re nuts for chasing this at your age.

Theater gives you a tribe. Those late-night rehearsals, tech weeks, inside jokes — they create bonds that last way beyond opening night. And connections matter. Casting directors, agents, indie filmmakers? They come to small theaters looking for fresh talent. It’s not just romantic — it’s practical.

Stage Credits Still Impress on a Resume

Even if you’re chasing film and TV, solid stage credits show casting you’re disciplined, trained, and not afraid of hard work. It rounds you out. It signals you’re not just some flash-in-the-pan hoping to get famous on a Netflix teen drama.

The Rush is Unmatched

Finally, let’s talk pure fun. There’s nothing like the adrenaline of a live audience, the hush before a scene lands, the laughter or gasps. It’s intoxicating in a way film sets rarely are.

It reminds you why you wanted to be an actor in the first place — not just to get jobs, but to tell stories that move people right there in the moment.

So Should You Abandon Film and TV?

Not at all.
But don’t be so focused on the camera that you miss the best training ground in the world.

If you’ve never done a play — or it’s been 20 years — consider auditioning for a local production. Or take a scene study class that performs for an audience. Even just reading plays out loud with friends can sharpen your instincts.

Your film and TV work will thank you for it.
(So will your creative soul.)

Ready to get serious about your acting journey?

If you’re still piecing together how to actually start — from finding the right classes to getting your first credits — grab my Working Actor Starter Kit. It’s built for beginners and late-starters, and gives you a clear roadmap so you’re not just throwing spaghetti at the casting wall.

When the Callbacks Stop Coming: How to Handle the Quiet Seasons

Acting, Wisdom

So… you’ve been auditioning. Maybe even booking a few things. And then, out of nowhere:

Crickets.

The callbacks stop.
The self-tapes slow down.
Your inbox suddenly feels like a very quiet, very polite ghost town.

If this is you right now, take a breath. You’re not broken. You’re not secretly terrible. You’re not “too old” or “too late” or whatever your inner saboteur is whispering.

You’re just in a quiet season.
And every actor—yes, even the ones with blue checkmarks—goes through it.

Why It Happens (Even When You’re Doing Everything Right)

First, let’s get this out of the way:
A dry spell doesn’t mean you’re failing. It usually means one of three things:

  • The industry is shifting (hello, summer slowdown or holiday lull)

  • Casting is focused on different types right now (which has nothing to do with your talent)

  • It’s just your turn to ride the part of the wave that dips before it rises again

The casting world doesn’t move in a straight line. It loops and stalls and hits gas at weird times. Sometimes you’re everyone’s type. Sometimes you’re no one’s. That’s the game.

The Spiral Is Real (But You Don’t Have to Stay in It)

The silence can mess with your head. You start rewriting every audition in your mind. Wondering if your agent is ghosting you. Scrolling social media and seeing everyone else post their “big wins” while you’re just over here re-labeling self-tape files into folders called “Almost.”

Been there.

The trick isn’t to avoid the spiral. The trick is to recognize it fast and step out of it sooner.

How? With questions like:

  • What’s still in my control right now?

  • Is there a new skill I can work on while things are slow?

  • Have I checked in with my agent or mentor with an update (instead of a panic)?

  • When was the last time I rested—not collapsed, but actually rested?

Quiet Seasons Are Fertile Ground

It may not feel like it now, but this stretch of quiet might be the best thing for you. It gives you time to:

  • Refine your materials

  • Sharpen your self-tape skills

  • Take that class you’ve been putting off

  • Reconnect with why you started this in the first place

Or better yet—create something.

Get a few actor friends together and come up with an idea. Film a sketch. Shoot a dramatic scene. Try something weird or funny or raw. You don’t need thousands of dollars in gear or a film degree—just your phone, a little time, and a willingness to play.

Maybe no one else will ever see it. That’s fine. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s momentum.
Creating keeps the muscle warm.

If You’re in a Slump, Here’s My Advice

Don’t rush to fill the silence with noise. Fill it with intention.

This might be the moment to work on your internal game—the mindset piece that doesn’t get celebrated on Instagram but is the real reason people stay in this business for more than five minutes.

Or maybe you’re craving structure. A plan. A to-do list that keeps you focused while you wait for the next call.

Either way, I’ve got something for you.

  • Start Where You Are – If the slump has you questioning everything, this is the mindset reset you need.

  • The Working Actor Starter Kit – If you’re ready to do something, this guide is packed with practical tools to keep you moving and building even between bookings.

Want to read more before jumping in?

Heads up: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy through them—at no extra cost to you. Think of it as tossing a tip in the jar so I can keep creating helpful stuff (and maybe upgrade my lighting setup).