Expert: Phil Nemy - 4/26/2008

Question
Hi Phil!

Ive just got into acting, I'm always worried about the way i look, because everyone says you have to be stunning if you want to get many roles in the industry. I think i'm averagly looking-pretty, my friends say that i have an amazing body and that would help if you want to get good roles. Is this true? and is it true that you have to be stunning to get alot of roles or would an average looking girl still get the same amount of roles as an attractive person?
What is the most important factor in getting a role? How good you are or how attractive you are?

thanks for your time :)

Answer
Dear :),

Thanks for writing. In answer to your question, do you think America Ferrera on UGLY BETTY is stunning? I wouldn't describe her that way.

9 times out of 10 the leading woman role, or ingenue role if you're a young lady, is cast by an actress who is exceptionally attractive and has what I like to call that indescribable "it." If you have "it," then chances are you'll be seriously considered for the role. The bottom line is that the camera has to like you. If you are not photogenic, you won't have as much like with an on camera career.

Remember that beauty is a subjective thing. Some people consider Mischa Barton gorgeous, others think she's okay. Some think actress Paget Brewster is stunning, other's think she's a good actress with an interesting look.

The more important question for you is what types of roles do HONESTLY believe you'd be cast in? If you don't think you'd be cast as the ingenue, then you don't have to worry about being attractive.

Your "look" is the first important thing in Hollywood. In New York, it's more about talent. In LA, it's more about your "look" followed by your talent.

Hope this helps.

Good luck!

Phil