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Hollywood 06: Success Stories — How Others Actually Did It
But enough of the doom and gloom! Before going on, let's celebrate some success stories when European actors have gone to the US and conquered it!
Antonio Banderas, Daniel Brühl, Mads Mikkelsen, Saoirse Ronan, Colin Farrell, Hugh Jackman, Hugh Laurie, plus a whole raft of other major stars began their careers in Europe (and further afield) and ended up in LA.
But also there are a good number of lesser well-known actors who have gone to the USA and make a living out there.
We did our research, interviewed several actors (including some here on enCAST.pro) and also trawled the internet for stories. And what we found out was simple and straightforward.
There are no shortcuts. It takes work. It takes time. It takes money. It takes dedication.
But it can be done!
What Successful European Actors in the USA have in Common #
- Significant home country success before trying LA
- Perfect mastery of both native and American accents
- Understanding of US industry differences (agents, casting, etc.)
- Substantial money saved (minimum 1 year's expenses)
- Legal status arranged BEFORE arrival
- Realistic expectations about timing (3-5 years to establish)
“But what about overnight success stories?”
They exist, but they're like lottery winners. You don't plan your retirement around winning the lottery.
“But my friend went to LA 20 years ago and is well established there now.”
In the past, a LOT of European actors went over to LA and set up shop there, living on their tourist visa and hoping not to get caught and deported.
A lot of them didn't quite make it in the business, ran out of money, got found out, and had to come home. (You know who you are!)
But true, some came good. There are documented stories of actors finding local work, then getting more work, finally getting a Green Card and then, ultimately, American citizenship. And they're household names now.
However, that was then. Now, with more centralised documentation and visa restrictions, and especially the more recent clampdown on illegal immigrants, this kind of story is just not happening any more.
