Actors, let’s remind the clients, advertisers, producers, etc. know that we ARE “Real People” and if those “real people” in your ads are paid anything at all they are actors (though let’s face it, not very good actors most of the time). Sorry, car dealers and other business owners but most of you would do well to hire real people, aka professional actors to tout your cars, windows, groceries, medications, clothing, etc.
Why the distinction between celebrities and actors. If a non-famous actor appears in a commercial it often carries a disclaimer: “actor portrayal”. If a recognizable celebrity is selling, nothing is said about them being less than a “real person”. Some advertisers don’t think it is necessary to remind the viewer that the celebrity is an actor, being paid large sums to appear, and may or may not even be acquainted with the product. Just my humble opinion but I don’t think that Shaq drives a Buick. Yes, I have seen him inside one and now I would like to see him get in and out of the same car.
It’s true we actors would expect to be paid a living wage because we too shop for groceries, medicines, cars, clothes, etc., etc., etc. It is often quite easy to determine who wrote the ad, who cast the ad, who bought the ad space. Did you ever ask your client or customer if it was the cute shot of your son/daughter/grandchild/dog that encouraged them to buy your product?
Wow, I’ve been wanting to say all that for a long time. Thanks for letting me vent. Now I just want my agent to call with some work.