Actors on the Street: Do you disclose your age? Is it the industry's business?

"I generally don't disclose my age, because I don't look 49 years old. I don't like to offer anything that can limit the industry's perception of me. I prefer that they use their own powers of perception. It's the same reason I don't use my true Hispanic name (Rivera). I actually don't look Hispanic, so I wouldn't want anyone with casting power to limit me to Hispanic roles."
-- Vic River
New York

"When I am asked my age, I tell the truth: I am 48 years old. I was born in 1960 and appreciate the time that I've been blessed to have here and hope that I am granted the opportunity and wisdom to age gracefully."
-- Emma Terese
New York

"I do not disclose my age, only my age range, because I don't want to be pigeonholed into a certain age bracket. It's very sad, but women are treated like cartons of milk ready to expire past a certain date. It used to be that the older someone was, the more they were hired, because life experiences made you a better actor. But now it's all about youth, regardless of how bad the acting is. I don't think it's the industry's business, or anyone else's, what age you are. All that should matter is how well you can do your job."
-- Seregon O'Dassey
New York

"I never disclose my age when I go to audition. I believe people in showbiz should care about my age range, my looks for the part, my acting, and the energy I bring in. When I am asked about my age, my answer is always, 'I'm as old as I look.' Why should I reveal my 'secret' if I look much younger than my real age?"
-- Muneer Katchi
Glendale, Calif.

"Are you kidding? To quote Mary Kay, 'A woman who would tell her age would tell anything.' "
-- Lorraine Serabian
New York