My Favorite Acting Coaches and Why They Matter

Acting is much more than reciting lines—it’s about being fully present and living truthfully in the moment. When you see great actors like Daniel Day-Lewis or Halle Berry, you witness a mastery of craft that often comes from years of dedicated coaching. Very few actors have reached those heights without some form of training. The journey to becoming a skilled actor requires guidance and growth, and a great coach in Los Angeles can help you unlock those abilities.

The entertainment industry is tough. Success in acting requires not just skill but also the mental resilience to navigate the ups and downs. In my experience, I’ve worked with both positive and negative coaches. Some have helped me refine my craft, while others have left me feeling disheartened. Finding the right coach is crucial. They should build you up with constructive feedback rather than tearing you down with destructive criticism. A supportive coach makes all the difference in how you develop as an artist and navigate the challenges of the industry.

Here are a few amazing coaches in Los Angeles who have helped me grow as an artist:

Joseph Pearlman – Scene Study & Mastering Your Craft

Joseph Pearlman’s classes focus on being present and fully authentic. His approach digs deep into the emotional layers of the character, helping actors inhabit their roles more truthfully. Through his guidance, I’ve learned to fully immerse myself in characters, creating performances that feel both transformative and raw.

Killian McHugh – Commercial Technique Auditions

Killian McHugh’s “tough love” approach prepares you for the fast-paced world of commercial auditions. His direct feedback can be hard-hitting, but it’s exactly what you need to sharpen your skills. Killian’s method ensures that you walk into any commercial audition prepared and confident. That tough love pays off as his coaching has been incredibly effective in helping me book roles.

Judy Kane –  Commercial Technique 

Judy Kane brings a refreshing balance between creativity and structure. Her classes provide a space for actors to take risks and experiment while fine-tuning the technical skills necessary for commercial acting. Judy’s ability to merge creativity with structure has helped me grow in commercial work by encouraging me to push boundaries while staying grounded.

Summer Watson – Vocal Coach

Summer Watson is an amazing vocal coach who doesn’t just focus on hitting the right notes but also on delivering an emotionally charged performance. Whether it’s for singing on screen or stage, Summer’s techniques help you connect with your material on a deeper level, allowing your voice to reflect your emotions.

Bill Holmes – Voiceover

Known as The Voice Doctor, Bill Holmes has a unique ability to teach voice acting with precision. His classes taught me how to fully utilize my voice for various media, from animation to commercials. His coaching is invaluable for anyone pursuing voiceover work, giving actors the tools to be versatile and successful in a competitive field.

Why the Right Acting Coach Matters

A great acting coach does more than refine your craft—they help build the mental resilience needed to thrive in a competitive industry. Constructive feedback and encouragement are key, while overly harsh criticism can harm confidence. It’s essential to find a coach who nurtures your growth. I continue to study with some of the best, including Summer Watson for vocal coaching and Joseph Pearlman for acting, and I highly recommend them to any performer looking to grow.