What is a Male Actor Called?

By Webmaster

  • What is a Male Actor Called?

    Exploring the terminology, history, and modern usage of the word “actor” for men

    (By Tonya Tannenbaum)


  • Defining the Term: What is a Male Actor Called?

    The most straightforward answer to the question is this: a male actor is simply called an actor. The term is gender-neutral and widely accepted in the industry today for both male and female performers. Traditionally, however, the word “actor” referred specifically to men, while “actress” was used for women.

    The shift toward using “actor” for all genders began in the late 20th century, as the entertainment industry started embracing more inclusive language. While “actress” is still in use and preferred by some, “actor” is now commonly used regardless of gender.

    For example:

    Tom Hanks is referred to as an actor, not a male actor.

    Leonardo DiCaprio, winner of the Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, is not labeled as a “male actor” in award categories—just “actor.”


  • The Origin of the Word “Actor”

    The word actor comes from the Latin word actor, which means “doer” or “performer.” In Roman times, acting was predominantly a male profession, and the term had masculine connotations. Over time, as women entered the stage (after centuries of exclusion in certain cultures), a need arose to differentiate female performers—hence, “actress.”

    The first recorded use of the word “actress” in English dates back to the 17th century. However, many professionals now consider these distinctions outdated.


  • When is the Word “Actor” Used Today?

    In contemporary contexts, especially within the professional entertainment industry, “actor” is used as the standard term for all performers. This is particularly true in:

    Award ceremonies: The Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and BAFTAs have categories like “Best Actor” and “Best Supporting Actor” for men, with corresponding “actress” titles for women.

    Casting calls: Descriptions will often specify “seeking an actor aged 30–40” without indicating gender unless relevant.

    Professional bios: Resumes and press releases commonly use “actor” as a title regardless of gender.

    Some institutions and individuals now even prefer to drop the gender distinction altogether:

    For example, in 2022, the Berlin International Film Festival introduced gender-neutral acting categories, awarding Best Leading Performance and Best Supporting Performance to the top actors, regardless of gender.


  • Examples of Male Actors Across Generations

    The term “actor” has been used to describe male performers throughout the history of film and theater. Here are a few iconic examples:

    Marlon Brando – Often called one of the greatest actors of all time, known for “The Godfather” and “A Streetcar Named Desire.”

    Denzel Washington – Celebrated for his range and depth in films like “Training Day” and “Fences.”

    Brad Pitt – An award-winning actor and producer known for “Fight Club,” “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” and more.

    Daniel Day-Lewis – A method actor with three Academy Awards, known for immersive performances in “Lincoln” and “There Will Be Blood.”

    Timothée Chalamet – A newer generation actor with leading roles in films like “Call Me by Your Name” and “Dune.”

    Each of these performers is referred to simply as an actor, not a “male actor.”


  • Is “Actor” or “Actress” Preferred?

    This is a matter of personal and professional preference. While many people in the industry have moved toward the gender-neutral term “actor,” others proudly use “actress.” What’s important is how individuals choose to self-identify.

    For example:

    Meryl Streep has accepted awards in categories labeled “Best Actress,” but in interviews, she has referred to herself as “an actor.”

    Emma Watson has been vocal about gender inclusivity in entertainment and prefers “actor.”

    Meanwhile, most male performers are simply called “actors” without the need to specify their gender.


  • What About Stage vs. Screen?

    The terminology applies universally, whether the actor is performing on stage, in a movie, or on television. Some additional terms may include:

    Thespian: Often used to describe stage actors, derived from Thespis, the first known actor in ancient Greek theater.

    Performer: A broader term that includes actors, musicians, dancers, and other entertainers.

    Still, in casting and formal references, “actor” is the standard across all media.


  • Cultural Differences in Terminology

    Different languages and cultures have their own variations on the word “actor” for men. Here are a few:

    French: “Acteur” for a man, “actrice” for a woman.

    Spanish: “Actor” for a man, “actriz” for a woman.

    German: “Schauspieler” for a man, “Schauspielerin” for a woman.

    Despite these gendered terms in other languages, the global film industry—especially in English-speaking countries—is steadily embracing gender-neutral vocabulary.


  • Breaking Gender Stereotypes in Acting

    Today, many male actors are taking on roles that challenge traditional gender expectations. From playing sensitive characters to portraying gender-fluid roles, male actors are showing a wider range of emotional expression and diversity.

    Examples:

    Billy Porter in “Pose” – an openly gay actor who challenges gender norms.

    Harry Styles in “My Policeman” – a musician-turned-actor exploring same-sex love stories on screen.

    Eddie Redmayne in “The Danish Girl” – portraying a transgender woman, though the casting sparked conversations about representation.

    These roles reflect a broader cultural shift in how we think about gender and performance.


  • Conclusion: The Power of the Word “Actor”

    So, what is a male actor called? Quite simply: an actor. The industry’s move toward more inclusive language reflects a larger social understanding that talent knows no gender. While tradition has given us gendered terms like “actor” and “actress,” the word “actor” today celebrates performance ability and craft—regardless of whether the performer is male or female.

    As we continue to witness evolution in language and representation, one thing remains true: the term “actor” carries the weight of dedication, artistry, and storytelling. And that, above all, is what truly defines a performer.

    Recommended Posts

  • Ad

  • How Can I Impress a Director?

    How Can I Impress a Director? Proven Strategies to Stand Out in a Director’s Eyes and Make a Lasting Impact (By Carmichael Phillip) Master Your Craft Before You Enter the Room Before you…

    How Do You Get Your Director to Like You?

    How Do You Get Your Director to Like You? Winning Over the Visionary: Professional Tips for Building Rapport with Your Director (By Carmichael Phillip) Understand Their Vision One of the best ways to…

    Do casting directors look at Instagram?

    Do casting directors look at Instagram? **How Your Social Media Presence Could Influence Casting Decisions** (By Carmichael Phillip) The Growing Role of Social Media in Casting In today’s entertainment landscape, platforms like Instagram…

    Is it OK to follow up with a casting director?

    Is it OK to follow up with a casting director? **Navigating Professional Communication in the Acting Industry** (By Carmichael Phillip) Understanding the Role of a Casting Director Casting directors play a critical role…

    How long does it take for casting directors to contact you?

    How long does it take for casting directors to contact you? **Understanding the Waiting Game in the Audition Process** (By Carmichael Phillip) The Typical Timeline After an Audition For many actors, the time…

  • Ad

  • Which Network Has the Most Commercials Per Hour?

    Which Network Has the Most Commercials Per Hour? Analyzing TV Networks, Their Advertising Loads, and Impact on Viewers (By Carmichael Phillip) Introduction: The Commercial Landscape on TV Networks Television networks rely heavily on…

    How long do commercials typically run for?

    How long do commercials typically run for? Understanding the lengths, formats, and examples of TV and online commercials (By Carmichael Phillip) Introduction: The Basics of Commercial Lengths Commercials are an essential part of…

    What Happens After a Callback?

    What Happens After a Callback?Understanding the Final Steps Between Audition and Booking the Role (By Carmichael Phillip) What Is a Callback, and Why Does It Matter? In the world of acting and auditions,…

  • Ad

  • How Many Commercials Are in a 30 Minute TV Show?

    How Many Commercials Are in a 30 Minute TV Show?Exploring Advertising Breaks and Their Impact on Viewing (By Carmichael Phillip) Introduction: The Role of Commercials in Television Television programming, especially in the United…

    What is an F List Celebrity?

    What is an F List Celebrity?Understanding the Nuances of Fame and Notoriety (By Carmichael Phillip) Defining the F List Celebrity In the glamorous world of fame and entertainment, not all stars shine equally…

    How to Do a Self-Tape on Your Own?

    How to Do a Self-Tape on Your Own? A step-by-step guide for actors auditioning solo from home (By Carmichael Phillip) Understanding What a Self-Tape Is A self-tape is a video audition that actors…

    Do Actors Really Kiss When Acting?

    Do Actors Really Kiss When Acting? The truth behind on-screen romance and what happens when the cameras roll (By Carmichael Phillip) The Big Question: Is the Kiss Real or Just Movie Magic? For…

    Can I Self-Tape on My Phone?

    Can I Self-Tape on My Phone? A Comprehensive Guide to Self-Taping Using Your Smartphone for Acting Auditions (By Carmichael Phillip) The Rise of Self-Taping in the Acting Industry The casting world has evolved…

  • Ad

  • Do You Have to Be Skinny to Be an Actor?

    Do You Have to Be Skinny to Be an Actor? Exploring Body Image, Typecasting, and the Evolution of Diversity in Hollywood (By Carmichael Phillip) Hollywood’s Historical Obsession with Thinness The film industry has…

    Do Actors Have Fun on Set?

    Do Actors Have Fun on Set? Behind the Scenes: Laughter, Pranks, and Camaraderie in the Acting World (By Carmichael Phillip) The Myth of the Glamorous Set To the general public, the life of…

    Actor Profile: Mark Consuelos

    Actor Profile: Mark Consuelos From Soap Operas to Talk Show Stardom—The Multi-Talented Career of Mark Consuelos (By Carmichael Phillip) * Early Life and Multicultural Roots* Mark Andrew Consuelos was born on March 30,…

  • Ad

  • Actor Profile: Eric Braeden

    Actor Profile: Eric Braeden The German-Born Icon Who Became the Face of Victor Newman (By Carmichael Phillip) * Early Life and Journey to America* Eric Braeden was born Hans-Jörg Gudegast on April 3,…

    Actor Profile: Susan Lucci

    Actor Profile: Susan Lucci The Daytime Empress Who Made Erica Kane a Legend (By Carmichael Phillip) * Early Life and Background* Born on December 23, 1946, in Scarsdale, New York, Susan Victoria Lucci…

    Actor Profile: Deidre Hall

    Actor Profile: Deidre Hall   The Enduring Legacy of a Soap Opera Icon   (By Carmichael Phillip) Early Life and the Road to Stardom Deidre Ann Hall was born on October 31, 1947,…

    Actor Profile: Kelly Ripa

    Actor Profile: Kelly Ripa   From Daytime Drama to Morning Show Queen: The Unstoppable Rise of Kelly Ripa   (By Carmichael Phillip) Early Life and Energetic Beginnings Born on October 2, 1970, in…

    Actor Profile: Lauralee Bell

    Actor Profile: Lauralee Bell   The soap opera heiress who turned legacy into longevity   (By Carmichael Phillip) Early Life and Hollywood Roots Born on December 22, 1968, in Chicago, Illinois, Lauralee Kristen…

  • Ad