Just a Hanger

A commentary on the way aspiring actors and models are treated in their industry. Those who are unknown or unconnected are treated as disposable.

Young talent is often molded into what the industry needs. Sometimes that includes a marketable personality. Other times it requires that you leave your personality at the door and ‘just be a hanger’.

Despite agencies’ and casting directors’ best efforts to avoid objectifying people in their practice, in an oversaturated market it would be impossible for any of them to shoulder the burdens of those that come to them for work. The naïve will have to figure it out, the jaded will quit.

Inevitably, even those who reach a certain level of success and popularity age out of the industry that demanded their full commitment for a large portion of their lives. So as the lucky ones, they had better save their pennies and make a long-term plan to stay relevant.

…Or, they could just enjoy the ride while it lasts and listen when they re told, “Just be a hanger.”