Vancouver is often called “Hollywood North,” and for good reason. With its booming film and TV industry, breathtaking backdrops, and growing opportunities for actors, it’s become one of the most exciting places to launch a performance career. But with all the buzz, there are also a lot of myths floating around—some of them pretty misleading. If you’re considering jumping into the scene or training at a Vancouver acting school, it’s important to separate fact from fiction.
Let’s clear up five of the biggest myths about acting in Vancouver—and reveal the surprising truths behind them.
YOU HAVE TO MOVE TO L.A. TO “MAKE IT”
This myth pops up all the time. Many new actors believe they have to pack up and move to Los Angeles the moment they want a serious career. But here’s the truth: Vancouver is not just a stepping stone. It’s a legitimate destination for professional acting.
Hundreds of major productions film in Vancouver each year. Think Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hallmark, and network television. These shows need talent. And they don’t just cast leads—they cast supporting roles, day players, and background performers locally.
Plus, building a strong resume in Vancouver can actually make you more competitive if you ever do move to L.A. or New York. You’ll arrive with credits, set experience, and confidence. And let’s be honest—starting your career in a smaller but thriving market is often a smarter move.
YOU NEED TO KNOW SOMEBODY TO BOOK WORK
The old “it’s all about who you know” myth can make acting feel impossible if you’re not already connected. But while relationships do matter, they’re not the only way to land gigs.
In Vancouver, your training, your work ethic, and how you show up on set all carry weight. Casting directors notice people who are prepared, easy to work with, and professional. Talent agencies in the city are always scouting for hardworking new actors who’ve taken time to develop their craft.
That’s where a Vancouver acting school can really give you an edge. It’s not just about learning how to act—it’s about learning the business, understanding auditions, and connecting with industry professionals. Many students book their first roles through auditions they hear about in school or through referrals from instructors.
So yes, networking helps—but it’s not everything. Being prepared and persistent matters even more.
YOU HAVE TO BE YOUNG TO START ACTING
Let’s bust this one wide open. You don’t need to be fresh out of high school to become an actor. Vancouver’s film and TV scene needs actors of all ages. Seriously—grandparents, businesspeople, retirees, and stay-at-home parents are working in this industry every day.
Many productions cast a wide range of characters, and that includes people who aren’t in their 20s. In fact, being older can actually be an advantage. There’s often less competition for those roles, and casting directors are always on the lookout for fresh faces in older age brackets.
And if you’ve always dreamed of acting but thought the window had closed? It hasn’t. Start training, get your headshots, and start auditioning. It’s never too late.
BACKGROUND WORK DOESN’T COUNT
This is a myth that holds a lot of people back. Some actors think that doing background work is a waste of time. But it’s actually one of the best ways to get comfortable on set.
When you’re doing background work, you get to observe everything: how a set runs, how actors interact with the crew, and what a real day in the life looks like. You’ll also start to build connections. Directors, assistant directors, and casting assistants might notice you. If you’re professional and easy to work with, you could get bumped up to a featured role.
Plus, you’ll learn what not to do—things that can’t be taught in a classroom but are crystal clear once you’ve seen a few real productions. Treat background work like paid training. Show up, be present, and take notes. It all adds up.
VANCOUVER IS JUST FOR SCI-FI AND HALLMARK MOVIES
It’s true—Vancouver is known for its steady stream of sci-fi series and Hallmark films. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
There’s a huge variety of projects happening here all the time. Think gritty crime dramas, heartfelt indie films, big-budget thrillers, and even reality shows. And more international filmmakers are choosing Vancouver for its talent pool and production-friendly reputation.
Many actors start in one genre but quickly find themselves cast in very different types of roles. The key is to stay open, keep training, and keep showing up. The opportunities are broader than most people think.
And remember—those sci-fi and Hallmark shows? They’re still professional sets with paying gigs. They offer steady work, union credits, and real experience. Don’t knock it until you try it.
BONUS TIP
Get comfortable with self-tapes. In Vancouver, a huge chunk of auditions happen through self-taped submissions. That means your ability to light, frame, and perform on camera at home matters—a lot.
Practice regularly, watch your playback, and invest in a decent setup (a ring light and tripod go a long way). The more confident you get with self-taping, the more auditions you can submit for—and the more chances you have to book roles, even if you’re just starting out.
SO, WHAT SHOULD YOU DO NEXT?
If you’re feeling inspired to start your acting journey in Vancouver, here’s what matters most: keep learning, keep training, and keep putting yourself out there. Enroll in a class at a Vancouver acting school, get to know your local casting directors, and stay active in the community.
The myths can be loud, but the truth is louder—there’s room for all kinds of actors in this city. Whether you’re brand new or looking for a fresh start, Vancouver offers real chances to grow, connect, and succeed.
So go for it. Get in the game. The industry here is bigger—and more welcoming—than most people realize. And the best part? You get to do what you love in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.