How to Make MONEY as an Actor
You know that feeling? Walking into an audition with this little voice in your head screaming, “I need this job. Please let this be the one.” Yeah, I’ve been there. And let’s be honest: it sucks.
But what if you didn’t need it? What if you could audition because you wanted to—because you loved the role, not because your rent depends on it?
That’s where a side hustle comes in. And no, I’m not talking about waiting tables or driving for Uber unless you really love it. I’m talking about creating an income stream that supports you and your acting career—something that makes you feel free.
Because freedom changes everything.
Even A-list Actors Are Doing It
You think Ryan Reynolds relies on acting gigs to pay his bills? Nope. Mint Mobile (which he co-owns) makes him millions. Rihanna? She turned Fenty Beauty into a powerhouse brand. Even Seth Rogen has a pottery business—because it scratches that creative itch and gives him the financial freedom to be picky with his acting work.
Here’s the thing: they all started small. The idea isn’t new, but it works.
Why Actors Need a Side Hustle
I’m not saying give up acting. I’m saying stop relying on it for survival—because when you’re stressed, it shows. Here’s what happens when you build that extra income:
You stop acting desperate. Casting directors can feel it when you “need” the job. When you don’t? Confidence. And that’s attractive.
Your creativity comes back. When your brain isn’t stuck in survival mode, you’re free to play, take risks, and actually enjoy your work again.
You make bolder choices. Because why not? You’ve got nothing to lose. And those risks? They get you noticed.
You find your joy again: Acting becomes fun—like it used to be—because it’s no longer tied to paying the bills.
You stop worrying about bills. Imagine knowing your rent and groceries are covered. No stress, no panic.
Here’s What I Did
When I wanted to relaunch my acting career, I needed serious training, but living in Munich meant I couldn’t just hop over to New York or LA. So I got creative.
I organized workshops. I found coaches I wanted to work with, brought them to me, and got other actors to join. Suddenly, I was:
Training with top-level coaches.
Building a community of like-minded actors.
Making money—on my own schedule, in my own city.
And the best part? I didn’t need to be an expert or influencer to do it. I just brought people together.
What Could Your “Thing” Be?
Think about what excites you. Maybe it’s workshops, like me. Maybe it’s voiceover classes, movement coaching, or something completely different. Start small. Find the people who inspire you, bring others along for the ride, and take that first step.
You’d be surprised how quickly it can grow—and how much freedom it can give you.
Ready to Try?
If this hits home for you, I’ve got a free workbook—Passion Project to Pro—that’ll walk you through the exact steps to make this happen. Download it below, and let’s get you closer to the kind of freedom that lets you show up as your best, boldest self.
Because you deserve that.
And if you’re a trained actor who’s ready to stop waiting for opportunities and start creating them, book a call with me. Let’s figure out how you can build the freedom and balance you need to thrive in your acting career.
Until next time, you stay your bold and beautiful self,
Anne
