Quote: Renegade Carpark @ October 12 2009, 11:53 PM BSTNot that I wish to steal Sammy's thunder but I too was turned down for a role because of my looks. To be fair it was the Gary Coleman biopic What The F**k Happened Willis?.
They said a 6' 2" white English bloke couldn't play an African-American midget. Racist bastards.
Commiserations Sammy, I have actor friends who get turned down for roles on a regular basis and really admire the way they keep bouncing back. One mate of mine got turned down by an agent because and I quote 'We already have someone on our books who looks a bit like you'.
If they're casting the role based on looks and not acting talent, sounds like a shit gig anyway, so you're better off not being involved.
Hang in there kiddo and other platitudes that convey optimism / support, etc.
I have known many young dancers growing up that were told to basically lose weight when they were already fairly slim. I can tell you now how skinny you are has bugger all you do with your physical ability. It's the same with looks and acting talent.
I think the need to compete for female performers is so strong because the amount of roles are sadly thin on the ground and with so many women fighting for these top spots, it gets nasty. Oh the stories....
If you like, I will sit in the corner in a long feather lined nightgown, drinking a martini and tell you of the horrors of working the arts DARLING. 
That's a joke by the way.
Don't be down on yourself. Remember the only opinion that ever matters are that of the people who truely know you.
Yes, umm, it's late. 