Most Canadian Actors Earn Less Than $20,000 Annually
A new Canada Media Fund survey highlights the financial instability faced by the vast majority of performers across the country.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Employment
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According to a survey published on October 21, 2026, seven in 10 Canadian actors earned less than $20,000 from screen work in 2024. The findings illustrate the precarious nature of the profession, with only 13 per cent of performers relying solely on acting for their income.
Why it matters
The survey results underscore the economic disparity in the Canadian screen industry, where only a small fraction of actors achieve high earnings. Most performers must rely on external income sources, highlighting a systemic challenge for career longevity in the arts.
A survey of nearly 1,000 performers shows that 70% earn below $20,000 annually, while just 6% earn over $75,000 from screen work. Two-thirds of respondents indicated that less than half of their total income comes from their acting profession.
The players
Canada Media Fund
This organization supports the development and production of Canadian television and digital media content.
Abacus Data
This is a public opinion and marketing research firm that conducts surveys across various sectors.
The details
The survey conducted by Abacus Data found that 47 per cent of respondents secured work on international or U.S. productions in 2024, compared to 40 per cent in Canadian scripted TV and 35 per cent in Canadian film. Additionally, U.S. production activity in Canada during 2024 saw an 11 per cent decline when compared to figures from 2022.
Timeline
The SAG-AFTRA strike impacted the industry in 2023.
Respondents' earnings reflected the 2024 production year.
Abacus Data conducted the survey at the end of 2025.
Results from the survey were published on October 21, 2026.
Macro View
These findings mirror historical economic cycles in the arts where performer income remains disconnected from the broader volume of production investment. This trend highlights a reliance on foreign-led production cycles that directly impact domestic job stability.
For aspiring and professional actors, these figures highlight the ongoing necessity of maintaining multiple income streams outside of screen work. Financial planning in the industry must account for the reality that the vast majority of performers earn a modest wage from their craft.
The takeaway
The data confirms that the acting profession in Canada is largely sustained by supplemental income rather than earnings from film and television projects. Performers should anticipate significant financial variance and prioritize stability outside of their primary artistic pursuit.
Further reading
For additional context on the domestic job market, read the latest analysis on Canada Employment.
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Should Canada prioritize a national star system to help domestic actors earn a sustainable income?
