Actor | Average UK Salary & Outlook

Actors use speech, movement and expression to bring characters to life in theatre, film, television and radio.

Related jobs: Dramatherapist
  • Collaborate with other actors as part of an ensemble.  
  • Portray and interpret roles, using speech, gestures, and body movements, to entertain, inform, or instruct radio, film, television, or live audiences.  
  • Work closely with directors, other actors, and playwrights to find the interpretation most suited to the role.  
  • Perform humorous and serious
Read more about Actor

Actors typically work around 45 to 47 hours per week.

As a Actor you will typically work evenings / weekends / bank holidays.

This occupation tends to be:

  • Artistic — Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
  • Enterprising — Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading
  • Read more about Actor
    * from ONETonline
    Average salary
    48,627 GBP *
    per year
    * data taken from the Office of National Statistics (ons.gov.uk)
    Average salary for Actor
    Average salary for full-time Actor

    Showing:
    • 48,627 GBP
    Salary over time for Actor

    Pay for this role has decreased slightly over time
    • 35,168 GBP
    • 48,627 GBP
    • 48,627 GBP
    • 27,391 GBP
    Ads

    Future outlook for Actors

    pointer
    Balanced outlook
    pointer
    Fair outlook
    -4% yearly wage growth (on average)
    pointer
    Balanced outlook
    44% chance of automation in the future

    Actor - Your future job?


    Which qualifications do I need?

    Find out what you need to know in order to become a Actor and the highest average level of education for people in this role.

    In terms of people already doing this job:

    • 45% of people in this role have do not have GCSEs or equivalent qualifications
    • 21% of people in this role have a Bachelor's degree
    • 16% of people in this role have GCSEs or equivalent

    There is no set entry route to become an actor but it may be useful to do a relevant subject like:

    • Level 2 Technical Certificate in Performing Arts
    • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts - Acting
    • A level in Drama and Theatre
    • Level 4 Diploma in Speech and Drama

    Get the right qualification to begin your journey to becoming a Actor

    Drama & Theatre

    What soft skills do I need?

    Rise above the competition by brushing up on the 5 most important soft skills you need to become a Actor.
    Reading Comprehension Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents
    Speaking Talking to others to convey information effectively
    Active Listening Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times
    Social Perceptiveness Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do
    Critical Thinking Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems

    What technical skills do I need?

    Technical skills are programmes, softwares and things you need to know in order to be a successful Actor. Check that you know:
    1
    Data base user interface and query software FileMaker Pro
    2
    Electronic mail software Email software; Microsoft Outlook
    3
    Spreadsheet software Microsoft Excel
    4
    Video creation and editing software Apple Final Cut Pro; Motion capture software; YouTube
    5
    Web page creation and editing software Facebook
    Improve your skills today

    Drama & Theatre

    Things to highlight for your Actor interview

    Cooperation Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude. Persistence Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles. Adaptability/Flexibility Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace. Dependability Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations. Initiative Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.

    Not sure if you are in the right job?

    Take our career change quiz