Character actor

A character actor is an actor known for playing unusual, eccentric or interesting characters in supporting roles, rather than leading ones.^[2][3][4][5] The term is somewhat abstract and open to interpretation.^[6] While all actors play "characters",^[7] the term character actor is often applied to an actor who frequently plays a distinctive and important supporting role.^[1][8] In another sense, a character actor may also be one who specializes in minor roles.^{[citation needed]}

A character actor may play a variety of characters in their career, often referred to as a "chameleon", or may be known for playing the same type of roles. Character actor roles are more substantial than bit parts or non-speaking extras. The term is used primarily to describe television and film actors, as opposed to theater actors.^[9] An early use of the term was in the 1883 edition of The Stage, which defined a character actor as "one who portrays individualities and eccentricities".^[10] Actors with a long career history of playing character roles may be difficult for audiences to recognize as being the same actor.^[5]