After years in Hollywood production, Mathieu Bonzon found himself struggling for stability when the industry slowed in 2022. With a new baby at home, he shifted gears, making educational videos for organizations like the Gates Foundation and NASA. The work brought steady income and a sense of purpose that he hadn’t found in traditional film.
Bonzon’s story is increasingly common. The decline of "Peak TV," Hollywood labor strikes, and the move of productions overseas have made jobs scarce for many in the entertainment industry. Scripted TV orders dropped 25% from their 2022 high, and TV writing jobs fell 42% between 2022 and 2023. Some professionals are redefining their dreams, while others are leaving the industry or turning to gig work.
New Opportunities in Adjacent Fields
Despite the downturn in traditional film and TV, related creative sectors are booming. The creator economy is thriving, with brands projected to spend over $10 billion on influencer marketing this year. Companies like Walmart are investing in cinematic content to stand out, and short, vertical dramas—popularized by apps like DramaBox and ReelShort—are gaining traction in the US.
Business Insider spoke to 11 industry veterans who have pivoted to new roles. While many face financial challenges, some are finding stability and fresh opportunities. For example, editor Zack Arnold now coaches other creatives on leveraging their storytelling skills for entrepreneurial projects. However, he notes that editing YouTube shorts can’t match the pay of high-end Hollywood jobs.
Mini Dramas and Creator Studios: A New Path
Some actors and crew are finding steady work in vertical mini-dramas. Marc Herrmann, for instance, has built a career acting in these short-form shows, calling it a dream come true. Others, like Amanda Barnes at the YouTube studio Smosh, are adjusting to the fast pace and direct feedback of digital content, which contrasts with the slower, more bureaucratic world of traditional studios.
For talent manager Irvin Gelb, mini-dramas have opened doors for actors struggling to find work. Initially skeptical, he now sees them as a lifeline for many in the industry. Actress Sarah Moliski, who specializes in villain roles in vertical dramas, credits the format with transforming her career.
Brands Beckon Hollywood Talent
Many former film and TV professionals are now applying their skills to branded content. Jenifer Westphal, founder of the production company Wavelength, has shifted her focus to creating character-driven stories for brands. Marisa Levy, once a producer for reality TV, now helps companies expand their presence on platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
While the transition requires adapting to new cultures and expectations, these professionals say they still find meaning in their work, just in a different context. As Levy puts it, "You can still shape culture; you’re just doing it differently."