Nationwide — Actor Geoffrey Owens, known for The Cosby Show, recently opened up about the ongoing challenges he faces as a working actor, despite receiving support and landing new roles. Owens gained media attention in 2018 after photos of him working at Trader Joe’s went viral.
In a recent interview on V-103 Atlanta’s Big Tigger Morning Show, Owens shared, “Even today, right now, as we speak, I still struggle to make a living. I struggle every day to make my ends meet.”
Despite being seen in popular shows like CBS’s Poppa’s House and films like Mr. Santa, Owens said that people often misunderstand how actors earn a living.
“People have a false impression of what the average what I call ‘middle-class actor’ makes and their ability to make a living in the industry,” he said.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average hourly wage for actors is $41, with a median of $20, according to Today.
After his Trader Joe’s photos went viral, Owens had to quit the job due to privacy concerns. He recalled, “For two weeks or more, I was like one of the most famous people in the world. Everywhere I went, people recognized me.”
This newfound fame led to new opportunities, including a role in Tyler Perry’s The Haves and the Have Nots and appearances in shows like Power Book II: Ghost and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Owens also received support from celebrities, including a $25,000 gift from Nicki Minaj, which he chose to donate at the time.
Despite these opportunities, Owens emphasized the continuing challenge of sustaining a career in acting. He remains grateful for the support and opportunities that have come his way.
