Can someone explain exactly what a character actor is?

Question:I could be wrong but I think it means an actor who normally plays the same types of roles... ex the grumpy old man, the nosy neighbor, the leader/authority type

Is that what a character actor is?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I could be wrong but I think it means an actor who normally plays the same types of roles... ex the grumpy old man, the nosy neighbor, the leader/authority type

Is that what a character actor is?

I think it's someone who plays characters that don't allow for much interpretation - more imitation. You couldn't take a "character part" for - as you mention - "a grumpy old man" and then interpret that man as something else. So it's not very demanding technically for an actor. It's just pretending.

You are correct.

A character actor is an actor who predominantly plays a particular type of role rather than leading ones. Character actor roles can range from bit parts to secondary leads. However, character actors often play supporting roles: characters who do not undergo a major change in the course of the plot, and whose role is less prominent than that of the leading actors.

i think it's a villain in the movie. ( the bad ones).

A character actor is an actor who plays a character. It usually refers to an actor who plays many different characters well, and with depth. The best leading actors consider themselves character actors.

You could contrast it with someone who really only plays themselves (like say, Arnold Scwhartzenwhatever, sorry Arnold) or they play the same character no matter what (like say, Kevin Costner, sorry Kev). Cate Blanchette is a great example of an actress who plays leading roles, but does brilliant character work.