Questions to Ask an Actor in an Interview
Engaging questions to explore an actor's craft, experiences, and insights about the performing arts, helping you understand their approach to acting and the industry.
1What drew you to acting, and how did you get started in the profession?
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What drew you to acting, and how did you get started in the profession?
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Why this works
Reveals their passion and motivation for acting, helping you understand their journey and what drives them in their craft.
2How do you prepare for a role, and what is your process for developing a character?
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How do you prepare for a role, and what is your process for developing a character?
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Why this works
Shows their approach to the craft of acting and how they work to create authentic, compelling characters.
3What has been your most challenging role, and how did you approach it?
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What has been your most challenging role, and how did you approach it?
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Why this works
Reveals their problem-solving skills and how they handle difficult or complex characters, showing their depth as an actor.
4How do you handle rejection and the uncertainty that comes with acting?
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How do you handle rejection and the uncertainty that comes with acting?
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Why this works
Shows their resilience and coping strategies, which are essential skills for navigating the ups and downs of an acting career.
5What is your approach to working with directors and other actors on set?
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What is your approach to working with directors and other actors on set?
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Why this works
Reveals their collaboration skills and how they work within the creative team, showing their professionalism and adaptability.
6How do you stay motivated and continue growing as an actor?
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How do you stay motivated and continue growing as an actor?
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Why this works
Shows their commitment to continuous learning and development, revealing their dedication to improving their craft.
7What advice would you give to someone just starting out in acting?
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What advice would you give to someone just starting out in acting?
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Why this works
Reveals their wisdom and experience, helping you understand what they've learned and what guidance they can offer to others.
8How do you balance the creative and business aspects of acting?
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How do you balance the creative and business aspects of acting?
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Why this works
Shows their understanding of the industry and how they navigate the practical realities of being a working actor.
9What is your favorite type of role or genre to work in, and why?
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What is your favorite type of role or genre to work in, and why?
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Why this works
Reveals their preferences and what kind of work excites them, helping you understand their artistic interests and strengths.
10How do you handle the pressure of auditions and performing in front of others?
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How do you handle the pressure of auditions and performing in front of others?
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Why this works
Shows their confidence and how they manage performance anxiety, revealing their ability to work under pressure.
11What has been your most rewarding experience as an actor?
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What has been your most rewarding experience as an actor?
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Why this works
Reveals what brings them joy and satisfaction in their work, showing what they value most about their career.
12How do you approach memorizing lines and staying in character during long shoots?
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How do you approach memorizing lines and staying in character during long shoots?
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Why this works
Shows their technical skills and discipline, revealing how they maintain focus and consistency in their work.
13What is your approach to taking direction and incorporating feedback?
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What is your approach to taking direction and incorporating feedback?
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Why this works
Reveals their flexibility and openness to learning, showing how they work with others to improve their performance.
14How do you handle the emotional demands of acting, especially for intense or difficult scenes?
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How do you handle the emotional demands of acting, especially for intense or difficult scenes?
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Why this works
Shows their emotional intelligence and how they manage the psychological aspects of their work.
15What is your philosophy on acting and what does it mean to you?
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What is your philosophy on acting and what does it mean to you?
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Why this works
Reveals their deeper understanding of the art form and what acting represents to them personally and professionally.
16How do you stay current with the industry and continue learning new techniques?
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How do you stay current with the industry and continue learning new techniques?
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Why this works
Shows their commitment to professional development and how they stay engaged with the evolving world of acting.
17What is your approach to building relationships in the industry?
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What is your approach to building relationships in the industry?
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Why this works
Reveals their networking skills and how they navigate the social aspects of the entertainment industry.
18How do you handle the financial uncertainty that comes with acting?
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How do you handle the financial uncertainty that comes with acting?
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Why this works
Shows their practical approach to managing the business side of their career and how they handle financial challenges.
19What is your dream role or project, and why does it appeal to you?
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What is your dream role or project, and why does it appeal to you?
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Why this works
Reveals their aspirations and what kind of work they're most passionate about, showing their artistic goals and interests.
20How do you see the acting industry changing, and how are you adapting to those changes?
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How do you see the acting industry changing, and how are you adapting to those changes?
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Why this works
Shows their awareness of industry trends and how they're preparing for the future of acting and entertainment.
How to Interview Actors Effectively
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Create a Comfortable Environment
Actors are often used to performing, but interviews can still be nerve-wracking. Create a relaxed atmosphere that encourages open, honest conversation.
Ask About Their Process
Focus on their approach to acting and how they work, rather than just asking about their achievements. This reveals their craft and dedication.
Show Genuine Interest
Actors often have fascinating stories and insights. Show real curiosity about their experiences and what they've learned from their career.
Question Sequences
The Craft and Process Series
The Career and Industry Series
Common Pitfalls
Don't Focus Only on Famous Roles
While big roles are impressive, also ask about their process, challenges, and what they've learned from smaller or less visible work.
Don't Make Assumptions About Their Experience
Every actor's journey is different. Ask open-ended questions that allow them to share their unique experiences and perspectives.
Don't Ignore the Business Side
Acting is both an art and a business. Ask about how they handle the practical aspects of their career, not just the creative ones.