Q: I'm very committed to becoming an actor. I'm not ugly, but I don't have "movie star looks;" I'm just a normal looking person with lots of talent. I know there are character-acting parts for people with an unusual appearance, but are there really parts out there for "just normal" people like me?

A: One of the first challenges of a career in entertainment is being realistic about what "type" of look you have. We all know at least one delusional plain-Jane who thinks she has the looks of a movie star or a runway model. That's a recipe for disappointment. It's far better to recognize what sort of niche you're in and targeting parts that fit your style.

Are there really parts for people with "just normal" looks? Absolutely! To prove it, let's play a little game. Switch on the television to any channel, right now. For the next 10 minutes, take special notice of each and every person you see on screen. Not just the lead actors, but everyone you see. Now, pay attention: how many of them are drop-dead gorgeous? If your television is anything like mine, very few. Sure, there's always one glamorpuss sulking around, but most of the other actors you see are just normal looking. Commercials are a great example of this, where the advertiser tries to depict everyday people enjoying their product.

When you're reviewing casting calls, it's worth it to look for parts that fit your "type." A good casting director will be specific about what type of look they're going for. Many will actually say they're looking for people with a "normal," "regular," or "everyday" appearance. Those are the parts for you.

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