If your child hasn’t had as many auditions lately, or you’re starting to wonder if your agent accidentally lost your number, don’t panic. You’re not alone. Hollywood is in a noticeable slowdown right now, and it’s not just a post-holiday slump.

This is the quietest it’s been in over a decade.

Let’s unpack what’s really happening in the industry, how it’s affecting child actors, and what smart parents can do to stay sharp while the business hits pause.

What’s Going On in Hollywood Right Now?

The 2025 slowdown is a perfect storm of industry shifts. And it’s hitting everyone—from A-listers to young up-and-comers.

1. Production in Los Angeles Has Dropped—Big Time

According to The L.A. Times, film and TV shoot days in L.A. have dropped to near historic lows. Entire soundstages are sitting empty.

FilmLA, the group that tracks shooting permits, says scripted TV production is down over 20% compared to this time last year. That’s a huge drop.

Less filming means fewer roles. Especially for kids.

2. Studios Are Holding Back

Major studios and streamers are still being cautious after the double strike in 2023. Projects that were greenlit are being delayed. Pilots that were once a sure bet? Either shelved or pushed to 2026.

3. The Rise of Out-of-State Production (Thanks to Tax Incentives)

While L.A. is quieter than a Tuesday in a library, other states and regions are getting busier—especially those with aggressive film tax incentives.

Per Entertainment Partners, cities like Atlanta, Albuquerque, Toronto, and New Orleans are booming, because their tax incentives stretch every production dollar.

What does that mean for your child? Fewer in-town jobs if you’re based in L.A., and a growing need to travel or be “local hire ready” in other states (more on that in a sec).

How the Slowdown Affects Child Actors

Here’s how the slowdown might be showing up in your child’s career:

Fewer audition notices (especially for union network or streamer roles)
More last-minute casting changes and delays
Shorter shooting schedules, which means fewer co-star and guest star opportunities
Increased competition for the limited number of roles that are available

What You Can Do During the Slowdown

You can’t control when studios press “play” again—but you can make sure your child is ready for their close-up when it happens.

1. Train Like You’re in Season

Just because the industry is slow doesn’t mean your child’s growth has to be. Now is the best time to sharpen on-camera skills, dive into improv, or start working on a new monologue.

Check out our private coaching and online classes to keep your child engaged and improving.

2. Update Your Materials

Use this lull to refresh your child’s:

Headshots
Demo reel (even with self-tape clips if needed)
Resume and casting profiles (Actors Access, Casting Networks)

Make sure they’re “audition ready” for when the next wave hits.

3. Understand the Importance of Geography

More productions are shifting out of California. If your family is open to traveling, learn about working as a “local hire” in states like Georgia, New Mexico, or Louisiana. Many families even get temporary housing to book out-of-state work.

Be prepared for the possibility of needing to travel for a booking—or connect with regional agents who can submit your child in those markets.

4. Stay Consistent with Self-Tapes

Even if tapes are fewer, keep practicing. Have your child record mock auditions every couple of weeks. This keeps them sharp and confident—especially on short notice.

5. Stay Positive—and Realistic

It’s okay to admit it’s a weird time. Be honest with your child in a way they can understand. This isn’t about them. It’s about an industry taking a breather after some big waves.

NEW CLASS!

Make each self tape count! Sign up for this class or other offerings

Why This Slowdown Could Be a Good Thing (Yes, Really)

Look, I won’t sugarcoat it—slowdowns are hard. But they can also be helpful.

This is the perfect time to:

Regroup on why your child loves acting
Reconnect as a family outside of auditions
Refocus on the long game—not just the next booking

When things heat up again—and they will—those who stayed committed, trained, and prepared will be miles ahead of the ones who waited for the “perfect time.”

FAQ: 2025 Hollywood Slowdown for Parents of Child Actors

Q: Is this slowdown going to last all year?

A: It’s hard to say. Experts believe there will be a slow rebound mid-to-late 2025, but it may take longer for kids’ roles to ramp up.

Q: Should I consider submitting my child in out-of-state markets?

A: Yes, if you’re open to travel and can commit to local hire status in those areas. Many families book work in places like Georgia, New Mexico, and Canada.

Q: What kinds of roles are still being cast?

A: Indie films, commercials, unscripted projects, and student films are still casting. Also look for recurring roles in shows that are already shooting their next seasons.

Q: Should we keep paying for acting classes during this slowdown?

A: Absolutely. Training now keeps your child emotionally invested and ready when opportunities return.

Q: My child is losing interest—should we take a break?

A: A break is totally okay! The goal is a healthy relationship with acting. Revisit it when it feels joyful again.

Final Thoughts

Hollywood is in a bit of a hibernation right now. But guess what?

The industry always wakes back up.

Use this time to build confidence, creativity, and connection with your child. Don’t chase bookings—chase growth. When the lights come back on, your kid will be centered, trained, and ready to shine.

Want more support during this slowdown?

Sign up for our newsletter for casting updates and career tips.
Check out our classes and coaching to keep your child camera-ready.
Share this post with a fellow stage mom or dad who needs a little encouragement right now.

L.A. Times (April 2025): L.A.’s Production Woes Worsen as Soundstages Go Unused, Shoot Days Decline
Entertainment Partners (2025 Film Incentive Report): Film Incentives in North America: 2024 Review + Look Ahead to 2025
No Film School https://nofilmschool.com/hollywood-2025

The 2025 Hollywood Slowdown: What Child Actors Need to Know (And How to Stay Ready)