Are You Too Old To Start Acting? | What's the Age Limit To Start An Acting Career? 

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Started acting in 2016 at the age of 37 with commercial acting. Landed my first Theater gig in 2018. Did my first shortfilm in 2019. Got my first agent in early 2020. Didn't book anything for 1 full year, until 2 days ago when I got my first Pilot with Netflix. And it's a supporting role. I am 42 years old. If, I can do it.. YOU CAN TOO!

Right on Kurt. I got my first supporting role in a feature film at age 69. Never acted before so I'm learning the craft now. It's never too late to do something you love.

I'm 69 and have always wanted to act....I might give it a shot.

Do 15 year old's really feel like they're too old to get started? Who said that every actor must start out at age 3 in cereal commercials to have a chance? I'm 36, just starting out, and confident I can have a successful career. Word to the young, the world is waiting for you.

I'm 20 and I'm getting into acting classes in college

Started acting at age 25. Looking back, I think it was an ideal age for me to get into acting personally because it was around that age I became more carefree and accepting of who I really was, and was more outgoing, open-minded, and confident that I was in my teens, all very important traits for being an actor. As much as I wish I had started as a kid, I think because of how shy and insecure I was a child it would not have been the best for me growing up to be a child star.

I’m 34 and just started! Never too late to start training.

Most people around 14-17 feel like they are too late as everyone they are auditioning has been acting since they where really young but you can get the same knowledge the only thing they have is experience (obviously I mean after you take some acting classes 😂)

I’m a retired firefighter, 55 years old and going to give acting a serious try! I plan on watching all these videos to learn as much as I can. If anyone has good advice or learning material for a newbie like me, please feel free to reach out. Thanks and good luck to you all!

Sam Jackson was 40 when he got his first major role doesn’t matter the age but the resilience to put in the work

This is really encouraging. I am 47 and just enrolled into acting classes. I was feeling a little to old for this. But this video helped, just like all your other videos and now I am encouraged to go forward and push on. Thank you for your videos. I appreciate you sharing.

My grandfather tried acting after a career of doing something else. He actually had a non speaking role in Frazier. He was on screen for under a minute, but it is such a great memory I have! He showed me when I was a kid that you can start acting at an older age.

This is actually very comforting. I’m 22, I’ve acted in my life at school plays, vídeos for school projects and a short film. But I still don’t find it enough and I think I’m too old to start a career as an actress.

I’m 19 and starting acting classes with absolutely no experience, wish me luck!

I noticed you were on Green land. Great movie and great acting

Super inspired! I’m 30 years old & just getting started!

I'm 47 and I just booked my first roll! It's Never too late!!!! Thanks for the awesome content Kurt! 😀🙏👍👏

Needed to hear this. Thank you so much. Im 32 this yr and im always worried about my age. Im an aspiring / struggling actor in melbourne australia. I do hope i can make it in the film industry..

I’m 18 years old and have recently become interested in acting. I love your videos they have give me hope and I love the message that you can get into acting at any age.

NOPE!! I’m 55 and couldn’t do this because I.. well I was raising five boys.. now that “ that “ gig is over.. I jumped in feet first! And .. getting bookings !.. in fact I’m actively looking for an agent!! I love your shows!! Huge help

i'm 17 and i'm going to start taking acting classes when I get into college and I'm working on my voice now

Started as a stage actor at 39. Seventeen years later began the Television/Film transition. Now at 63, I can say many if thr riles Ive had on stage and in film required some life experience. Rock On Kurt!

I'm 56 and I feel my life experience brings something ❤️

thank you for the words of comfort! i'm only 26 and i've gotten a little bit of acting experience. I was so worried that I might be too old to get my feet wet in the industry because I'm so busy with trying to support myself first. this is a great video!

I recommend everyone acting not required any age they depend on you when you start your career

I'm 31 and I see so many aspiring actors full of youth and wonder. Which as someone who's getting on now and only just starting out, it does diminish my own aspirations. This video really helped boost my confidence and give me renewed vigor. Thanks!

I’m 40 years old and I want to be an actor. In July I will start taking acting classes in Orlando. This video inspired me Thank you !

I totally love you brother! So inspirational, especially in this crazy time we are all going through!

Appreciate this video. I started acting at 37 had a good 10 year run. Haven’t pursued it since 2017 but now I’m going 100 % all in. Thanks

Thank you so much for lifting any doubts or concerns connected to starting acting at a certain age. I'm 24 years old and currently on my second year in university with Graphic Design. My interests spread far and beyond when it comes to different forms of arts and crafts such as blacksmithing, carpentry, drawing / sketching, writing, story-telling, acting, etc. I've always dreamed to immerse myself in a story not only on a piece of paper but also on screen. I've been following up on the knowledge that you're sharing so I can get a better understanding of the industry. I must say that you're an absolute gem. Thank you once again and stay safe!

My first acting experience was when I was 16. It was for a play in high school. At 18, I was in a commercial for a local radio station.

I’m 21 years old Starting my Shurtleff acting class next week. So excited 🥰

The Dorothy Steel story is amazing & inspiring! Thank you for sharing!

I was 51 when I first decided to audition for an open call with the Old Vic Theatre in London, and I was amazed when I was offered a role. I then went on a year's Theatre Acting course in one of the UK's leading acting colleges. You're never too old, but you must have the desire, and you can develop the craft.

i did local theater 30 years ago and i was in my 30's then. no previous experience not even a 4th grade play. ;D now retired i am starting out as a background extra. i look at it as a free education in to the workings of making a movie. i plan to see just how far i can make it this time around.

Ive loved acting since i was a child. Always in school plays and did drama GCSE and performing arts A level in college. Back then i was very weak minded and caved under the pressure of bullies in my class and dropped out of performing arts A level. My biggest regret. I thought about it all the time for years. Until the pandemic. During lockdown, i had time to reflect... ALOT. I have grown massively as a person. Found my confidence again and im ready! Im now 29 years old and Ive booked by first screen acting course in london for the new year. And im very excited. Quoting tom hiddleston. "We all have two lives. The second one starts when we realize that we only have one."

I'm turning 30 later this year, and I was planning to find a class and an agency after the pandemic. Good luck to everyone who has similar plans! ^^

@Acting Career Center Kurt Yue, thanks for giving props to Ms. Dorothy Steele! I saw her in Black Panther and was knocked out by the sheer dignity and beauty that she projected onto the screen. I started acting after retiring from my "real job" at age 65 and, while I'm not exactly a household name (yet), I have gotten some nice roles and am looking forward to many more. Keep up the great work, Kurt!

The younger the better but the truth is you're never to old if you love acting and enjoy it, the difference is the level of success you achieve given that as one gets older thay have less time. In short if you love acting and simply can't stop thinking about it take classes and enjoy the journey.

This video really helped me, I'm 15 and I'm going to start taking acting classes to get some preliminary training and experience!

That's a pure inspiration in 5 minutes here. Thanks a lot!

I’m 48 years old, I’m in my second year of acting school in Paris, I was 47 when I stepped foot in my very first acting class EVER. Thank you for this video Kurt, you have no idea how inspiring it is. Dorothy Steel is a true inspiration. She recently passed away though after appearing in the second Black Panther. She’ll forever be my inspiration though. But if she could believe she still had a chance at 88, I have no excuse at 48. I’ll rewatch both BPs just to see her and truly appreciate her in them now that I know who she is. Thanks again for this video.

this made me feel so much better, i’m 15 and i was worried that i haven’t gotten into acting early enough to actually turn it into an actual career.

Wow. Inspirational. 33 year old single mom of two and looking to find a acting class. Looking to get my kids involved as well

You are the best Kurt yue sir

Hello sir, I am like literally crying right now especially the woman you mentioned who started at the age of 88 I guess. By the way I'm from the Philippines and just now I am like overthinking because I am now 21 but still I didn't pursue what I really want to do which is acting, like I really want to become an actor so so badly not for the intension of fame, but I want to pursue my passion. I am now a college student here in the Philippines and I already made my mind that I will go to America soon as I finish my college degree and I will do whatever it takes to pursue acting. It's just so hard since I don't know how to start and where to start but I know someday fingers crossed, I will become an actor, and once I did that, I will thank you for inspiring me so much with your videos, God bless you more and more!

I’ve started at 42

Wow! I thought I was setting a record by starting at 67. Thanks to Dorothy Steel, I don't feel so intimidated by starting at my age. Thanks for telling us about her!.

Oh my god! When you say "anyone at any age can start something new" the only thing that comes to my mind is 'why are we running against time all the time?' this is so important! Understand that each person has his own history and trajectory. We don't need to compare ourselves with anyone. I started my acting classes last year and i'm 28 and honestly i'm really happy because it was the right time. I mean, i had things to do/to learn before that absolutely prepared me for this moment of my life.

Thanks for this. I've recently started studying in an acting program (via zoom) here in DC. I'll be sixty in a month. Hopefully I'll be able to at least get some work in some of the non-equity theaters in the area after this covid stuff finally goes away. Anyway, I'm having fun.

Needed this ! Thank you!

Hey Kurt…I’m a new Guru of your amazing knowledge and this video just makes me smile. I returned to acting just over a year ago at 60, after 35yrs as a Production Designer. I’ve been watching your videos as I’ve had a few near misses, and TODAY I’m self taping for a new TV series starring an A-LIST Actor with a Sir to his name! I’m feeling far more prepared after watching your Tips….Thank You, It’s never too late…and who knows xxx

This video has encouraged me to retake drama classes again, thanks. I am a new Subscriber.

I started 3 years ago at 49 with no prior experience. Before getting into this, much of my free time was spent raising kids. Now, mostly an empty nester, and in need of a new hobby, I stumbled across a free acting class by Brad Heller one sleepless night. I read several books, watched dozens of video classes, then created my profile on Backstage. Got an invitation to submit the next day, and within a few weeks was in front of the camera doing day player and background work. I was hooked right away! After perhaps a dozen self-taped audition submissions, the call backs starting coming in and I landed my first supporting role. 3 years later, I've taken several studio classes, read more books, and have been supporting or lead in 11 independent/student shorts and features. I've done a few commercial jobs, but prefer film. I've been to see two premieres for movies I've been in that won awards, got to walk the red carpet at one, and got my first ever acting award from a film festival a few months ago. I still don't have an agency or manager, but enjoy every minute of it! If this is something you've always wanted to do, jump in! Watch Kurt's videos, get some books, and find a local class. Whatever you do, stay away from those pay-to-act dream-crushing places like (punned named to protect the guilty) Barber's on, Jon White House, and so many others like them. They are bottom-feeding predators that are out to part you and your money as quickly as possible on crappy classes and photo shoots. There is no substitution for hard work. Like anything else, acting takes dedication, study, and practice. Work hard, and you may get lucky. You would not expect to walk onto the field at an NFL game and be invited to play without any experience, acting is no different. Get your skills up, and when opportunity knocks, you just might book and amazing role.

I want to be an actor. I am currently at the age of 25. I was dreaming to become an actor during my university year in my life. I am in anxiety when it comes to my family because I don't want them to ruin my dream that I am going for. I graduated in a Business Degree of System Operation Management and I am very interesting to get in the Entertainment Industry. I met 4 celebrities from Thailand in California in my lifetime. I don't have experience in Acting and don't know where to start. I love to be in the Scene on Television and Media such as opening for sport events, commercials, etc. I also was dreaming of framing me on entertainment newspaper for the community of who I am. I am a character person who I want to be either my own role or role that would be given. Your video inspires me a lot and I want to become one of them. Thank You Kurt!! If you have a comment about me, you may reply comment back.

Started 27 and now I’m 29 and I’m really pushing for it. You just have to trust the process

Didn’t know about the Black Panther actor that’s awesome! Have heard so many stories about actors starting at a mature age so inspirational. I’m hopeful I’ll still be working in some capacity in the industry as I become a mature adult 😊

Thank you for this. Really I mean THANK YOU. I had an acting teacher here in LA say to me "If you have not made it by now, it's not going to happen". It devastated me. Needless to say, I left the class. It took a lot of re-programming for me to get inspired again. I decided to stop listening to toxic teachers and start over with beginners mind--even though I have been acting for years-clean slate. Your RU-vid channel is how I am getting back on that horse. 🏇😀. I will be taking online classes with Houde school of acting. Thanks for that recommendation. You are the best.

I was wondering this myself because I am 28 going on 29. I don’t want to be an old bat auditioning for movies

Boman Irani was 42 years old when he acted the first time and got his first movie when he was 44 years old.

I always hear the stories but its the Self doubt in our heads most actors experience Still not giving up tho - currently 39 and been at it with real determination for 2-3 years #cantstopwontstop

I'm 14 and starting acting classes with absolutely no experience, wish me luck!!

At my age women are leaving acting. Now that my kids are all grown up, as a woman, 1st I might try my local theatre? I'm very old, but look 10 years younger. So, I've got an advantage... I hope?🤞😂😂😂 Thanks for the support & inspiration. 🤗🇨🇦

I’m 18 and been wondering this for a while lol

I love your shirt Kurt!👍

I'm 39 almost 40 and my local community theatre group are going to be putting on drama classes for adults. I'd like to give it a try but I'm so worried about turning up and being the oldest one there, this has given me something to think about. Thank you

Yesterday I did my first live audition I felt so at home I believe there is much more to come and so many memories ahead of me in this industry... thank you for the cheat sheet 🤝

Hi Kurt, I just recently found your page and its videos. I also remember you from Cobra Kai. When I was a kid I fantasized a scenario about being a big child star, but in reality, I never really pursued it. To this day I continued to modify that fantasy as I grew up. Now I’m 45. I’m a licensed certified teacher, but I don’t hold a full-time teaching position making a teacher salary on a step pay scale. I am a substitute teacher and get paid a daily per diem rate. When the pandemic closed schools in 2020, subs were not needed. I began to rethink my future as an educator. I thought about the two times I submitted applications and never received a phone call for an interview and in one case being passed over for a short-term assignment in science for another substitute(not in his certification area). I also consider that my certification content area (Earth & Space Science) is not in great demand in my state, especially at the high school level as a core course. My subject is mostly taught in middle school where topics in my subject area are broken down into different grades and not all together in one grade. Personally, I do not relish the middle school setting as I deem the atmosphere as very childish as I teach towards a collegiate level. During the pandemic, I thought about my fantasy as an actor again more so with the negative climate in schools about what could be said, taught, or read. I was thinking maybe I should try to pursue it. I began reading up on acting (after 40) and eventually found many videos such as yours and Wendy Alane Wright. I’m from Philadelphia and there are many acting schools to choose from in the city and suburbs and I’m evaluating all of them. Philadelphia has been a hub where some major productions have come to town like “Mare of Easttown.” There is a studio in Delaware County (DELCO) where I live that opened a few years back. I’m looking to begin a change in 2024. I can do some gigs locally and still substitute teach in between. I work for a substitute company where I can choose when and where to work so it would be easy to take off if needed. Thanks for the videos.

i HAVE A JOB INTERVIEW YESTERDAY BUT MY PASSION IS IN ACTING. I AM HERE LOOKING AT THIS INSTEAD OF PREPARING

Thank you for saying that. I had an acting coach who asked to know our ages & left many doubting themselves about being too late to start acting.

I’m 20 and just starting to get into acting yall wish me luck

I really needed this, thank you! As a young aspiring/struggling actress, looking at peers my age I always feel the pressure I should be doing more to "catch up". And now that I will be taking on full-time work to save up😢 so less time and energy, the pressure is just compounding but seriously thank you for reminding me that it is never too late.

I started an interest in acting when I was 15/16 and did some acting at that time. Some stuff happened so I stopped but I did very small stuff here and there. Now at the age of 26 (27next month) I’ve decided I wanna pursue acting and am trying to enter classes. But I won’t lie it creeps in my head that I’m to old for this, obviously that’s not true but that’s anxiety for you. Your videos help ease a lot of my anxiety’s I’m very grateful to you. 💙

Good one Kurt, I agree totally! 😊👍

I love this RU-vid channel, thanks for another amazing video.

Thanx now am not worried I will definitely do it and am really so inspired

I’m 13 and I want to start acting and start going to acting classes!!

Wow that’s crazy that story about the old lady who made it to be in big time movies shown across the world. Truly inspirational to say the least.

Thank you so much 🙏✨💖. I needed much more than i thought ! 🇫🇷

Thank you it’s really helping😅

I love your RU-vid channel, it's very inspiring and I always wonder if I am too old, even though I am only seventeen years old lol. So I definitely needed to hear this. Thank you Kurt!

my first acting class was back in 2011 one of my classmate was I believe 80 years old; I was in my early 20s back then

Thank you for the inspiration, greatly needed in this moment.

I’m 26, I thought I was too old. Thank you for this video, just subscribed!

Yes !!! I'm a beginner and I'm 50 and proud

Kurt, thank you very much for existing. I wish you the best in life and in your career.

It's never too late to do anything... I love this video 😍

I am only 14 and sometimes i feel too old for a successful actor lmao

I started acting classes in my 20's here in Manhattan in the mid and Late 200's and took class in LaGuardia community college

Congratulations for 40.8k subscribers 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

Can you do an interview with you friends actors who were able to move to the US and how they done it ?

Another great video Kurt! I started at 69.

I really want to start learning how to act but I have 2 problems First is that my parents won't allow me to because they want me to focus on studying and they say it's ok if I do it after I graduate college but i was worry since I'll be 23 at that time but watching this video made me change my mind so I'm really really thankful ❤️ But second is. There's absolutely no acting class where I live and i don't know what to do about this 💔

Hey Kurt, i want to let you know that your a great person because you help other people with your tips.

Baseball player, and Actor is what I wanted to do. I screwed up baseball, im 42. I really want to try acting, but I'm so afraid to foget lines

Thanks for your videos!! They are amazing!!

Leaving one for dorothy steel, inspirational 🔥🔥🔥

Ye finally I am 11 and really want to be an actor and this is A GREAT HELP 👍

I’m 34 and started taking acting classes in Philadelphia as well as taking college classes for theatre. Wish me luck please ;)