A strong acting cover letter along with a good acting resume can be the difference between getting an audition and being overlooked. Casting directors, producers, and agents receive hundreds of applications. A well-written cover letter shows professionalism, highlights your personality, and makes them want to read your resume and call you in.
What Do Employers Look For in an Acting Cover Letter?
Casting directors and production managers look for more than just talent. They want to see:
- Passion for acting – Show genuine enthusiasm for the role or project.
- Relevant experience – Highlight roles, training, and performances connected to the part.
- Professionalism – Prove you understand the industry and can represent the production well.
- Soft skills – Teamwork, adaptability, and confidence on stage or camera.
- Unique value – What sets you apart from other actors (languages, singing, stage combat, improvisation, etc.).
Actor Cover Letter Examples
- Actor Cover Letter Example
- Film Actor Cover Letter Example
- Theater Actor Cover Letter Example
- TV Actor Cover Letter Example
- Commercial Actor Cover Letter Example
- Voice Actor Cover Letter Example
- Background Actor Cover Letter Example
Acting Cover Letter Template
Why this Acting cover letter template is good
This cover letter effectively highlights the applicant’s diverse acting experiences and achievements, demonstrating a strong fit for representation. It balances personal passion with professional accomplishments, making it persuasive and engaging.
Acting Cover Letter – Text Example
Emily Carter
emily.carter@email.com | 555-123-4567 | Los Angeles, CA | www.emilycarterportfolio.com
Date
Casting Director
[Production Company Name]
[Address]
Dear Casting Director,
I am writing to express my interest in acting opportunities with [Production Company Name]. With training in stage and on-camera performance, I bring passion, versatility, and dedication to every role. I thrive in both dramatic and comedic productions and pride myself on taking direction well to deliver strong, authentic performances.
My background includes leading roles in independent productions, where I collaborated with directors and cast members to bring scripts to life. I also participated in workshops that strengthened my improvisation, voice control, and movement skills. I am committed to professionalism, preparation, and the creative energy that makes a project successful.
I would be honored to audition for [Production Company Name] and contribute my talent to your upcoming projects. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Emily Carter
Why This Cover Letter Is Good:
- Highlights versatility across mediums (stage + film).
- Shows training + workshop experience without overloading.
- Balances passion with professionalism.
- Personalizes intent toward collaborating with a production company.
Film Actor Cover Letter Template
Why this Film Actor Cover letter is good
This cover letter effectively showcases the applicant’s skills and experiences while demonstrating a genuine enthusiasm for the role and the company. By incorporating specific examples of past achievements and emphasizing a personal connection to the craft, it makes a strong case for the applicant being a perfect fit for the position.
Film Actor Cover Letter – Text Example
Michael Anderson
michael.anderson@email.com | 555-987-6543 | New York, NY | www.michaelandersonacting.com
Date
Casting Director
[Studio/Production House Name]
Dear Casting Director,
I am eager to apply for upcoming film roles with [Studio/Production House Name]. As a trained actor with experience in both independent films and short productions, I bring a strong commitment to character development and the ability to adapt quickly to diverse scripts and settings.
In my most recent project, I portrayed a lead character in an award-winning short film that premiered at [Festival Name]. The role required deep emotional range and collaboration with a creative team to deliver a powerful story. My training in screen acting, along with my ability to understand character motivations, ensures I can bring authenticity to any role.
I admire [Studio/Production House Name]’s dedication to producing compelling films, and I would be honored to contribute my skills to your future projects.
Sincerely,
Michael Anderson
Why This Cover Letter Is Good:
- Tailored to film-specific skills (character development, screen acting).
- References festival/film achievement for credibility.
- Balances artistic ability with collaboration.
- Personalizes company admiration.
Theater Actor Cover letter Template
Why this Theater Actor Cover letter is good
This cover letter effectively demonstrates the applicant’s relevant experience and passion for acting while providing concrete examples of successes that align with the needs of the target theater company, creating a compelling narrative for their candidacy.
Theater Actor Cover letter – Text Example
Sophia Martinez
sophia.martinez@email.com | 555-654-3210 | Chicago, IL | www.sophiamartinezacting.com
Date
Casting Director
[Theater Company Name]
Dear Casting Director,
I am excited to apply for stage acting opportunities with [Theater Company Name]. With extensive training in live performance and a passion for bringing stories to life before an audience, I excel at delivering powerful and memorable stage performances.
I have performed in both classic and contemporary plays, including leading roles in Shakespearean productions and ensemble roles in modern dramas. I bring strong vocal projection, precise movement, and the ability to connect with audiences in an authentic way. My dedication to rehearsal, adaptability, and teamwork ensures that I contribute positively to every production.
I would be thrilled to audition for [Theater Company Name] and showcase my commitment to live theater. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Sophia Martinez
Why This Theater Actor Cover letter Is Good:
- Focuses on theater-specific strengths (projection, movement, live audience connection).
- Demonstrates range across classical + modern plays.
- Emphasizes teamwork and rehearsal discipline.
- Keeps tone passionate and professional.
TV Actor Cover Letter Template
Why this TV Actor Cover letter Template is good
This cover letter effectively highlights the applicant’s diverse skills, relevant achievements, and enthusiastic approach, making it compelling for casting directors. By showcasing specific experiences and a clear call to action, it encourages engagement for further discussion.
TV Actor Cover Letter – Text Example
Daniel Roberts
daniel.roberts@email.com | 555-222-7788 | Los Angeles, CA | www.danielrobertsacting.com
Date
Casting Director
[Network/Production Company Name]
Dear Casting Director,
I am writing to express my interest in television acting opportunities with [Network/Production Company Name]. With training in on-camera performance and experience in independent TV pilots, I bring strong screen presence, adaptability, and the ability to connect with audiences through authentic character portrayals.
In my most recent role, I appeared in a recurring part for a web series where I collaborated closely with the director to shape a character across multiple episodes. This experience strengthened my ability to develop consistent performances while adjusting to different storylines and fast-paced production schedules.
I greatly admire [Network/Production Company Name] for producing engaging, character-driven shows, and I would be honored to contribute my talent and dedication to your projects.
Sincerely,
Daniel Roberts
Why This Cover Letter Is Good:
- Highlights episodic consistency and adaptability.
- Demonstrates real-world screen experience in pilots/web series.
- Uses TV-specific skills (fast-paced production, recurring roles).
- Aligns with company’s storytelling values.
Commercial Actor Cover Letter Template
Why this Commercial Actor Cover Letter is good
This cover letter works well because it opens with enthusiasm, backs up the candidate’s claims with quantifiable achievements, and ends with a strong, proactive call to action.
Commercial Actor Cover Letter – Text Example
Lily Evans
lily.evans@email.com | 555-333-4455 | New York, NY | www.lilyevansacting.com
Date
Casting Director
[Advertising Agency/Production Company Name]
Dear Casting Director,
I am excited to apply for commercial acting opportunities with [Agency/Production Company Name]. With a strong background in performance and improvisation, I specialize in delivering energetic, engaging, and relatable portrayals that connect with audiences in a matter of seconds.
I have appeared in several regional ads, where I worked with directors to bring brand messaging to life in a way that felt natural and persuasive. My training in voice, facial expression, and timing allows me to deliver memorable performances that align with brand goals.
I am impressed by [Agency/Production Company Name]’s reputation for producing creative campaigns, and I would be thrilled to contribute to your future projects.
Sincerely,
Lily Evans
Why This Cover Letter Is Good:
- Tailored to commercial acting (branding, relatability, timing).
- Shows improvisation and quick connection skills.
- References real ad experience without being overly specific.
- Highlights brand alignment + professional collaboration.
Voice-Actor Cover Letter Template
Why this Voice-Actor Cover Letter Template is good
This cover letter effectively communicates the applicant’s relevant experience and success in the field of voice acting, while also showcasing enthusiasm for the position. By including specific examples and a strong call to action, it creates a compelling case for the applicant’s candidacy.
Voice-Actor Cover Letter – Text Example
Christopher James
chris.james@email.com | 555-999-1111 | Atlanta, GA | www.christopherjamesvoice.com
Date
Casting Director
[Studio/Production House Name]
Dear Casting Director,
I am applying for voice acting opportunities with [Studio/Production House Name]. With professional training in voice performance and experience narrating commercials, audiobooks, and animation shorts, I bring versatility, range, and technical precision to every project.
My work includes narrating a nationally distributed audiobook and providing character voices for an independent animated series. These experiences strengthened my ability to adapt my tone, pacing, and delivery to meet the unique needs of different productions. I also have a home studio equipped for high-quality recordings, allowing for quick turnaround and professional audio delivery.
I am inspired by [Studio/Production House Name]’s creative projects and would love to bring my voice talent to your upcoming work.
Sincerely,
Christopher James
Why This Cover Letter Is Good:
- Focuses on voice-specific skills (tone, pacing, range).
- Mentions audiobook + animation experience.
- Adds technical credibility (home studio, professional setup).
- Balances creativity with reliability.
Background-Actor Cover Letter Template
Why this Background-Actor Cover Letter Template is good
This cover letter effectively communicates the applicant’s enthusiasm, relevant experience, and readiness to contribute, making it persuasive and engaging for hiring managers in the entertainment industry.
Background-Actor Cover Letter – Text Example
Hannah Lee
hannah.lee@email.com | 555-777-8888 | Los Angeles, CA | www.hannahleeacting.com
Date
Casting Director
[Production Company Name]
Dear Casting Director,
I am interested in applying for background acting opportunities with [Production Company Name]. As a disciplined and reliable performer, I understand the importance of professionalism, punctuality, and blending seamlessly into the environment to enhance the authenticity of a scene.
I have participated in multiple independent film productions as an extra, where I worked closely with assistant directors and crew to follow instructions quickly and adapt to changing requirements on set. My flexibility, positive attitude, and commitment to being part of a successful production make me a dependable choice for background roles.
I admire [Production Company Name]’s work and would be thrilled to contribute to the atmosphere and realism of your upcoming projects.
Sincerely,
Hannah Lee
Why This Cover Letter Is Good:
- Emphasizes professionalism and reliability (critical for extras).
- Shows experience in film sets without overstating.
- Highlights adaptability and teamwork.
- Keeps tone humble but confident.
How to Start an Acting Cover Letter
The opening line should grab attention and feel personal. Avoid generic phrases like “To whom it may concern.”
- Address the right person – Casting director, agent, or producer.
- Show excitement – Mention the project or company by name.
- Give a hook – A short sentence that ties your skills or passion to the role.
Example:
“Dear [Casting Director’s Name], I was excited to see your call for actors in [Production Name]. As a trained stage actor with experience in [specific role type], I would love the opportunity to audition for this part.”
How to Write the Middle Section of an Acting Cover Letter
This is where you prove why you’re the right choice.
- Highlight achievements – Past roles, awards, or special training.
- Mention relevant experience – Stage, TV, film, or commercial work.
- Include unique skills for Acting – Accents, dance, musical instruments, stunt work.
- Show confidence without arrogance – Keep it professional.
Best practices:
- Keep paragraphs short.
- Use bullet points for quick reading.
- Always connect back to the role or project.
How to End an Acting Cover Letter
The closing paragraph should leave a strong impression.
- Express enthusiasm for the role.
- Thank the reader for their time.
- Add a call to action (e.g., interest in auditioning or meeting).
Example closing line:
“Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to audition and bring my energy to this role.”
Optional Sections to Include in an Acting Cover Letter
Depending on your background, you can add extra details:
- Specialized Training – Drama schools, workshops, acting coaches.
- Bilingual or Multilingual Skills – Valuable for certain roles.
- Online/Voice Acting Experience – Relevant in today’s digital industry.
- Physical Skills – Martial arts, stage combat, acrobatics, or dance.
- Union Membership – SAG-AFTRA, Equity, etc.
Tips to Optimize Your Acting Cover Letter
- Keep it one page – Short and direct.
- Avoid overused phrases like “hard-working” without proof.
- Tailor each letter to the specific role or casting call.
- Don’t repeat your resume word-for-word.
- Show personality – let your passion for acting come through.
FAQs About Acting Cover Letters
Do I need a cover letter if I already submitted a resume?
Yes. A resume shows your experience, but a cover letter shows your personality and enthusiasm.
How long should an acting cover letter be?
No longer than one page. 3–4 short paragraphs are ideal.
Should I mention my training or certifications?
Yes. Acting schools, workshops, or certifications (like stage combat) make you stand out.
Can I use the same cover letter for all roles?
No. Always customize it to the production, role, or casting director.
What if I have no acting experience?
Focus on your training, passion, transferable skills, and willingness to learn.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
A well-written acting cover letter helps casting directors see you as more than just another name. It’s your chance to show professionalism, passion, and unique strengths that make you the right fit. Combine it with a strong actor resume, and you’ll improve your chances of landing auditions and roles.
