Veteran Actors Turn to Social Media to Seek Work

In today’s entertainment landscape, seasoned actors are often overshadowed by fresh faces and new talents. One such actor, Sergio Klainer, renowned for his role in "Amor en custodia," has even turned to digital platforms like TikTok to seek job opportunities. At 88 years old, Klainer shared a heartfelt video calling on producers to give him a chance in any project, emphasizing his desire to continue working and feeling alive.

Fortunately for Klainer, his plea yielded positive results. After filming his last telenovela in 2022, he is set to return to Televisa this year for a new melodrama. However, his experience on TikTok reflects a broader struggle faced by many veteran actors who strive to remain relevant in an increasingly competitive industry reliant on new technologies for self-promotion.

Alongside Klainer, other veteran actresses like Elvira Monsell and Martha Ofelia Galindo have also taken to public platforms to seek work. Monsell, known for her roles in telenovelas such as "Amor en Silencio" and "Rosalinda," has been out of work for over six years. In 2023, she expressed how this lack of employment has adversely affected her mental health. Despite her desperate pleas on social media, support from fans and colleagues like Andrea Noli hasn’t yet translated into new roles.

Monsell’s struggles are compounded by financial difficulties, especially after her brother was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome in 2021, leading to increased medical expenses for the family.

Meanwhile, Galindo, famous for her portrayal of the teacher Canuta in "Cero en Conducta," has similarly voiced her frustration about the scarcity of opportunities for older actors in Mexico. At 94 years old, she reminisced about her long career in theater, film, and television, highlighting her desire to continue contributing to the industry.

In a recent interview, she proposed the establishment of a company that would showcase the talents of older actors, advocating for their inclusion in the entertainment sector. Unfortunately, such an initiative has yet to be realized.

These stories underscore the challenges faced by veteran actors in the industry, as they navigate an evolving landscape that often overlooks their experience and talent in favor of younger performers.

For more on the struggles of veteran actors in the digital age, check out this article from El Universal.