Expert: Kenneth D. Plonkey - 10/16/2009

Question
My name is Lee. I just turned fifty and for most of my life I have entertained friends and family with voices, characters and quick wit. I have always wanted to pursue comedic acting but raising my now grown children and providing for my family came first. Do you believe there is room for and opportunities for a 50 year old newcomer to fulfill his dream of making a living as a working actor?

Answer
HI Leo, Well, there have been notable stars who did not start until they were fifty.
so why not give it a try.  At 50, one would hope that you have an income other than acting
at any rate you will need one until lightning strikes, maybe it will.The reality of acting is that very few people make any money at it, the average professional film actor probably makes less that a thousand dollars a year, But you may be the next Sidney Greenstreet or Paul Ford who both began stellar careers at 50. So I want you to read my blog just to get the lowdown on professional acting and so on http://theatredoconacting.blogspot.com And I want you to write me at kencosp@aol.com so I can send you some important material. I am helping a thirty something fella in Vancouver and he has just done his first paid job and has another coming up on Sunday, so we can do it if the mix is right. Be sure to re introduce your self. God bless, Doc