When you think of making sacrifices for what you love, or even whom you love, many people say that they have no problem. They are willing to do whatever it takes. This is especially the case in acting. I’ve met many novice and veteran actresses that have expressed that they were willing to go to the ends of the earth and back in order to succeed in the entertainment world; many of who are indeed passionate about the craft. Not making any money is the standard: “you have to pay your dues” is a common saying amongst the artists. Many of us who are artists, and are serious about pursuing our dreams of one day having consistent gigs that pay our bills and give our loved ones bragging rights, have no problem with being poor for some time in order to live our dream. However, this next sacrifice is more specific to women – in my opinion – than men. Sacrificing our bodies and/or morals in order to get a role.
Many of us are willing to jump over buildings and suffer financially for our craft, and indeed many are also willing to go beyond, including exploitation. This seems to be an ongoing topic amongst my female actress friends and I, what role would you strip naked for? Does such a role even exist? Would it be worth it? Along with the occasional “I’d love to strip naked on camera and have a love scene with so and so,” of course. However, where the answer lies is also within a range as varied as the women themselves.
What’s the answer? There is no real answer, except whatever you are 100% comfortable with. I like to tell ladies to not only think about stripping your clothes off a thousand times before you consider it, but to also discuss it with those they respect greatly and who’s opinions matter the most. Another thing I like to do is, when I feel that I have an internal struggle of any kind, I seek advice. But, not anyone’s advice – many make the mistake of listening to anyone who is willing to give advice – but to seek those that are qualified on the topic at hand. This could be a veteran actress who has accomplished much, in your eyes. It could also be a college professor who you respect greatly and has your best interest at heart. The answer is taking that advice, with a grain of salt and finding a middle ground between that and your own feelings and long term goals. All must align!
You must be proud of your work, no matter what, and finish the project with no regrets! Imagining that you’ve already done the project and seeing it all over the media is also another great way to make you think about your decision, everyone has a range of feelings on this. However, imagining your specific scene all over television and magazines brings the hypothetical into realism and this should help greatly. What would your reaction be? Would you be proud of it 20 years from now? Again, there is no right or wrong answer; the only thing that matters is YOUR feelings and your own level of conformability. Those who love you know your character and will most likely support you no matter what…so do take their feelings into consideration, but again it is your passion and YOUR work. So be true to yourself and ask the question in the mirror “should I do this?” and you will automatically get your answer.