What to Put on a TV Acting Resume

A TV acting resume has a different format from a standard professional resume. Like the latter, the Internet age has not made the practice defunct--while an actor should always maintain a website with photos and clips, casting offices still need to see a paper resume (always submitted with a photo) to make decisions.

Features

At the top, give your name, cell phone number, email address, height, weight, eye color and hair color. Then give your union status and representation information (agent/manager). Separate the body of the resume by the type of work (film, theater, television, Internet), and give a list for each that includes the project title, the type of role, the production company and the director. Then list education or classes and a list of special skills (horseback riding, dance, martial arts). Finally, staple the resume to, or print it on the back of, a head shot of 8.5 inches by 11 inches.

Considerations

As with a standard resume, accuracy is important. Triple-check the contact information and listed credits before printing.

Warning

Never list a home address on a TV acting resume. It's never necessary and always a bad idea for personal safety reasons.

Misconceptions

Performers often think it's a harmless fib to pad their "Special Skills" section. This can be embarrassing (or even dangerous) if you're called on to demonstrate such skills in the audition.

Fun Fact

Many TV acting resumes have a tongue-in-cheek "special skill" listed in that section.