Every week, we try to do a focus piece on addressing industry issues within the acting community and keeping your perspective in check. This week, we’re gonna tackle the giant pink elephant in the room: type casting. When age, aesthetic, and style can potentially pose ‘limits’ in your career.

Most actors understand what it’s like to be type cast, or put in a box by agents and casting directors – and the longer you’ve lived in LA, the more you experience the pigeonholing. Oftentimes, we hear that some actors are told “you’re too old to be a high school nerd, but you have too much of a baby face to be a college stoner” or “too frumpy to be the cheerleader, too feminine and curvy to be the awkward outcast” or even “too different looking or too ‘classically’ good looking”! It’s all very cliche and yet none of it makes sense. As frustrating as it can be, yes, it’s the nature of the beast. People in the casting world will take one look at you and make snap decisions on where (or IF) you belong. Chances are, someone has tried to put you in a box, or maybe you feel like you only fit into a few ‘categories’ with your vibe, your look, and your acting style.

Let’s be real about one thing: being put in a box as an actor doesn’t necessarily mean you’re a one-trick pony, nor does it mean you’re unfit to expand your horizons. It means you have strengths. It means you have an area where you excel and stand out beyond the rest. This is pretty damn important when it comes to booking gigs and establishing your ‘signature’ within the industry. Instead of focusing on the issue of not being sent out for as many dynamic roles, remember that it’s quality over quantity. You want to go out for roles you can book, and you want to book roles that will give you an opportunity to showcase your strengths.

More often than not, your first impression is via headshot and audition. Overcome the stereotypes by showcasing your diversity in the first impression. Get different headshots that showcase your different looks; if you can be a nerd AND an edgy rebel, then show it. If the audition calls for a wholesome girl next door, dress the part and show off your skills. If you still feel that ‘dressing the part’ isn’t enough of a stride and you’re still put in a box, remember it’s possible to use the “box” to your advantage. Develop your brand. Remember that nobody can play Jonah Hill the way that Jonah Hill can. Drew Barrymore became the rom-com queen by being her quirky, unconventionally adorable self. There’s only ONE Ellen Page (they wouldn’t send out Rachel McAdams for a role like Juno MacGuff). There’s only one you. Dig deep, find out what your strengths are, embrace the unique qualities that you have to offer. Own it! Then book it. Cheers.