Working Actor Now Homeless in Los Angeles
“What hurts the most is the friends and family that used to be there, that when you get into this situation, everybody just chucks it up to drug abuse or bad choices…that’s not always the case.
Sometimes it’s just the choice is made for you and you don’t have any choice.” ~ Dennis
“Through an avalanche of unfortunate events” is how Dennis ended up homeless in Los Angeles. Dennis is a working actor. He moved to New York City into an apartment he couldn’t afford. After three years his partner split and wiped him out financially. Dennis had to start over.
Dennis’s elderly mother is in an assisted living home. He tried to live at the facility but that did not work out. He ended up living in a broken-down car for over a year.
Dennis says homelessness used to be that person you didn’t know. Now, homelessness is your sons or your daughters, your sisters or your fathers.
How does the growth of streaming services impact the job opportunities for actors in Los Angeles?
A rising concern in the city of Los Angeles is the increasing number of homeless individuals who were once successful in their careers. One such individual is a working actor who has recently become homeless due to the high cost of living in the city.
The actor, who wishes to remain anonymous, had regular roles in popular television shows and commercials. However, with the growth of streaming services, there has been a decrease in traditional acting gigs. Combine this with the high cost of living in Los Angeles, and it has led to a struggling career and ultimately, homelessness.
The actor stated, “It’s hard to maintain consistent work as an actor, and when you’re not booking gigs, your savings quickly diminishes. I couldn’t afford to pay rent anymore, so I had to give up my apartment and eventually ended up on the streets.”
Sadly, this situation is not uncommon in Los Angeles. According to a report by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, there has been a 16% increase in homelessness in Los Angeles County over the last two years. Additionally, the city’s high cost of living is making it difficult for many to maintain a stable living situation.
The actor’s story sheds light on the ongoing issue of homelessness in Los Angeles, and the need for more affordable housing and support for those struggling to make ends meet. It is unfortunate that someone who dedicated their life to their craft can fall victim to a system that doesn’t guarantee stability or support.
While the entertainment industry may seem glamorous and lucrative, the reality is that many actors struggle to make a living. This particular case serves as a reminder that homelessness does not discriminate, and anyone can find themselves without a home when faced with financial hardship.
It is essential for the city and its residents to continue to address this issue and work towards finding solutions that will provide help and support for those in need. Until then, individuals like this actor will continue to struggle to make it in a city that they once called home.