Top 40 Actors Over 40
There’s a certain kind of actor every filmmaker knows. The one who shows up memorized, makes the other actors better, and somehow makes a difficult shoot feel manageable. They’re not always the biggest name on the call sheet — but they’re often the reason the whole thing works.
A lot of those actors are over 40.
Here at The Utah International Film Festival we created the Top 40 Actors Over 40 to do something the industry doesn’t do nearly enough: stop and acknowledge the working actors who have built a career over years through auditions, callbacks, student films, regional commercials, indie shoots and festival circuits.
This year, we asked casting directors, filmmakers, producers, agents, coaches, and fellow actors one question: Who makes every production better? The response was overwhelming. Nominations came in from across the industry, and each one told a version of the same story — a person who brings professionalism, range, and craft on every set they work.
From that pool of nominees, we scored each actor across five categories: active credits, industry demand, festival presence, professional positioning, and visibility.
These are working actors. They are bookable, reliable, and in demand.
We hope this list puts them in front of the producers, casting directors, and filmmakers who haven’t found them yet — and gives the ones who already know them one more reason to keep calling.
#40
Nathan Casper
Rob Diamond Talent Agency
Credits: Linger On, On The House, Gold Motion
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12764002
“In 7 short years,Nathan has proven my dedication, versatility, and reliability on set. Winning the Best Actor award at the Zepstone Film Festival helped spotlight his genuine skill in the acting craft.”
#39
Steven W. Anderson
McCarty Talent Agency
Credits: The Fighting Preacher, Raising the Bar: The Alma Richards Story, Romance on the Ranch
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0027468
“Steven plays comedy and tragedy with equal exceptional ability.”
#38
James Gault
Starz & FX Management
Credits: Gabriella, Lady in the Locket, Forgiveness Girl
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9859579
“Ever the constant professional James Gault brings a level of class that is rare on every set he works on. I enjoy working with James and could recommend him to anyone looking for a real professional that can embrace a salt-of-the-earth actor.”
#37
Pat Barnett Carr
TMG
Credits: Thanksgiving, The Nutcracker Wish, Broken Bread
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13292231
“Pat Barnett Carr is one of our most cherished and oldest actresses at the age of 91 years. Pat has been working in film, TV and commercial projects since 1996, and prior to that she was a professional singer. She inspires all of us within the industry that there are always going to be work for those who are skilled and capable.”
#36
James Jamison
TMG
Credits: Last Seven Days, Love Under A Northern Sky, Matchmaker Christmas
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1535129
“James Jamison is extremely versatile, has an amazing voice and personality to match. He is an asset to any production fortunate enough to work with him.”
#35
Ben Buehler
McCarty Talent Agency
Credits: Way Out Here, Treasure Lies, Unverified
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8163116
“Ben has the emotional vulnerability to make a limited campaign go national and can hold his own against legends in the game. Ben is rich in life experience and brings himself to every role.”
#34
Terence Goodman
TMG
Credits: California King, Small Town Crime, Timeless Love
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0329245
“Terence Goodman started his career in New York City as a theatre actor working with a number of well known artists. While in New York he accumulated an impressive list of film and classic TV series. He later moved to Utah and has contributed in a multitude of ways in the film, TV, and commercial industry — a highly skilled and versatile actor booking a multitude of dramatic and comedic roles.”
#33
Mandi Jaxz
Starz & FX Management
Credits: In The Path of Shadows, Wild Souls, Lucky Star
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1324105
“Mandi Jaxz is a multitalented performer as an actor, singer and acting coach. Mandi doesn’t wait for opportunities to arise, she makes them happen. From nailing the audition to producing the next award winning hit, Mandi Jaxz knows how to be a star in demand. “
#32
Trenton James
TMG
Credits: Show Off’s, Scratchy, Cage and Tumbleweed, The Ali’i King
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1621599
“Trenton James started his career in his teens as an improv actor and was discovered by TMG shortly thereafter. Since then Trenton has built an unmatched clientele who repeatedly request his presence on set. He has mastered the skill of subtle comedy and woven it into a multitude of characters.”
#31
Teresa Norvick
Stars Talent Studio-NW / Whitaker Entertainment-LA
Credits: Mabel and George, Once Upon a Trope: Regency, Christmas on Duty
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5612348
“Teresa is a consistent professional and productions genuinely enjoy having her on set.”
#30
Shane Morrisun
Starz & FX Management
Credits: I Be A Witch, Permafrost, The Last Page
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8231237
“Shane slways has a good attitude and does his best in whatever he does.”
#29
Bethany Hubbard Jones
McCarty Talent Agency
Credits: Til Death Do Us Part, Cameron Was A Red Wings Fan, Perspective Identity
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2123722
“Bethany brings a joyous energy to every set because she truly loves being an actor. Her happy place is in front of a camera and making the crew laugh brings her such joy!”
#28
Jenn Booth
Rob Diamond Agency / Maxx Management
Credits: Gabriella, Lady in the Locket, Forgiveness Girl
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10603162
” Jenn loves working on Indie Films! As a filmmaker she loves supporting everyone involved. She’s a late bloomer in this industry but there’s no stopping her now!”
#27
Catherine Olsen
Starz & FX Management
Credits: The Genesis Project, Buster Brooks, Tails of Christmas
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12750975
“Catherine stands out because she brings a rare combination of talent, depth, and life experience to her performance. She is beautiful inside and out, and her work feels genuine — showing the value of stories centered around women in every stage of life.”
#26
Yolanda Wood Stange
TMG
Credits: Christmas Roses, Home Turf, A Cozy Christmas Inn
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1343822
“Yolanda has impacted the industry with her multiple skills and ability to play a variety of characters. She has worked as a casting director and also has representation as an actor in LA. She is SAG AFTRA and Equity — extremely versatile and highly respected and sought after by producers, marketing executives and casting directors.”
#25
Charlotte Hemmings
TMG
Credits: Seeking Persephone, The Stranger in My Home, Buster Brooks
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9039337
“Charlotte is extremely professional, has in depth knowledge of the industry and what is required. She is an outstanding actress and is very proficient in her skills. In addition she is repeatedly requested by various directors and producers.”
#24
Joel Bishop
TMG
Credits: Cinderella in the Caribbean, Faith of Angels, My One True Love
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1042649
“Joel Bishop is the kind of actor that fits every role and every project. He started acting in his late teens and has acted professionally for the past 30 years. Joel excels in film, TV, commercial, and voiceover. He is the epitome of professionalism and being fully engaged in every role and project.”
#23
Michael Flynn
TMG
Credits: Gabriella, Lady in the Locket, Forgiveness Girl
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0283556
“Michael has been working as an actor for the majority of his life. He has worked in various markets including LA and Utah. He is exceptional in his ability to understand a character and bring it to life on screen. He is also a well known producer and director and deeply involved in training other actors to succeed in their craft.”
#22
Leta Harris Neustaedter
Starving Actor Agency
Credits: Keep Coming Back, Saint Peter, Running On Love
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3103609
“Whenever she gets an audition she will get a callback and or go to Producers. She’s a baller!!”
#21
Shawn Stevens
TMG
Credits: The Santa Box, Lucy Shimmers and the Prince Of Peace, Sons of Winter
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0828778
“Shawn has a vast amount of experience in front of the camera ranging from series to feature films. His level of dedication to the craft is outstanding.”
#20
Shaunna Thompson
TMG
Credits: Beauty and the Billionaire: Bali, Journey to Christmas, A Fiancé for Christmas
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0860704
“Shaunna Thompson has a magnetic personality that translates extremely well to film, TV, commercial and the stage. She has worked in the industry for the majority of her life with casting directors and marketing executives requesting her for a multitude of roles. Her love of the industry has shown through with her dedication and career longevity.”
#19
Annette Wright
TMG
Credits: Christmas with the Campbells, Sharing Christmas, Christmas Land
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1047203
“Annette Wright is a stand out actor largely due to her comedic capabilities. She constantly impresses directors with her ability to understand a character but also to incorporate subtle humor where needed. She has worked in all aspects of the industry including theatre and is booked repeatedly by those she has worked with prior.”
#18
Danor Gerald
TMG
Credits: Beauty and the Billionaire, Saints and Soldiers: The Void, Road to Glory
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1658341
“Danor Gerald started acting professionally while in college and became SAG AFTRA two years later. He came to Utah from the Texas market and has developed a very strong clientele, working in film, TV, commercial, voice over and theatre. His comedic sense along with his multiple capabilities has made him a go-to for the past thirty years.”
#17
Richard Mofe-Damijo
Self Represented
Credits: Revelations, Christmas in Lagos, Oloibiri
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1816193
“Hands down one of the best actors I have ever worked with. Having him here in Utah for two projects from Nigeria has been a special treat. Absoltley outstanding!”
#16
Christopher Robin Miller
TMG
Credits: Yo Gabba Gabbaland!, The Wingfeather Saga, Passport to Love
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1248730
“Christopher Robin Miller started out as a child actor in ‘Kids Incorporated’ and has built an extremely impressive resume in film, TV, commercial, and voiceover. He is a multi-talented actor who sings, dances, excels in improv and more. He continues to be a force to be reckoned with as a full time SAG AFTRA actor in LA as well as Utah.”
#15
Ivey Lloyd Mitchell
McCarty Talent Agency
Credits: Homestead, Shoelaces for Christmas, Faith of Angels
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0516009
“Ivey has never been busier. Life experience, raising 6 kids, and living internationally has given her a depth to draw from. She really enjoys the complex, meaty roles and is not afraid to get raw or try unexpected takes.”
#14
Colleen Baum
TMG
Credits: Grizzly Night, Riddle of Fire, Summering
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1208122
“Colleen has worked in the industry for many years, exhibiting professionalism, reliability, commitment and follow through on all auditions and bookings. She is extremely versatile and willing to play a variety of characters not only on screen but in theatre as well.”
#13
Heidi Mendez
TMG
Credits: Wardriver, Kill Me, American Murderer
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3918838
“Heidi Mendez works in both the LA and Utah markets as a film, TV, and theatre actress. Her comedic capabilities along with her bilingual skills has amassed a following, which has made her a go-to for a multitude of clients. She is also a theatre director and still finds time to help a number of juvenile delinquent students.”
#12
Jayne Luke
McCarty Talent Agency
Credits: Christmas Tree Lane, Joe Bell, Brigham City
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0525596
“Working in theatre and film in Utah for 60 years doesn’t happen by accident. You have to have the goods.”
#11
Ben Lokey
TMG
Credits: American Nobody, A Picture Perfect Holiday, The Wolf of Snow Hollow
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0518091
“Ben Lokey started his career in LA as a dancer with Michael Jackson and Olivia Newton-John and shortly thereafter added acting to his skill set. He has mastered longevity in a field that requires much and often without reward. Ben is a highly skilled and versatile actor who has successfully built a career in film, TV, and commercial work.”
#10
Dean Simone
McCarty Talent Agency
Credits: RJ Decker, Gringo Hunters, Winning Time
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0800482
“Dean consistently shows commitment to truth and interesting choices.”
#9
Cheryl Vienna
McCarty Talent Agency
Credits: Rise of the Unicorn, Freaky Tales, The Holiday Stocking
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6968792
“Cheryl is a consummate professional. As an actress over 60 she is booking regularly. She delivers strong grounded performances consistently. She is humble and a positive energy on set.”
#8
Pam Eichner
TMG
Credits: One Last Ride, The Night Clerk, Roughneck
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3025366
“Natural and raw performances, brings honesty to every scene she’s in. A delight to be around on set — always kind and considerate to everyone (crew included). Makes everyone laugh and smile, perpetually prepared and professional. Often described as ‘set mom’ on many occasions.”
#7
Adriane McLean
McCarty Talent Agency
Credits: Horizon: An American Saga, Holly & Ivy, Queen Sugar
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3485847
“Utah has been so good to Adriane. She has had such fun working and growing as an actor in the SLC area.”
#6
KC Clyde
Joseph Le Agency / Cintera Mgmt / McCarty Talent Agency
Credits: Landman, A Thousand Tomorrows, Alien Country
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0167408
“KC has a presence and work ethic that makes any performance stand out in any scene. KC’s range as an actor is immense.”
#5
Michael Todd Behrens
McCarty Talent Agency
Credits: Horizon: An American Saga (Part 1&2), Yellowstone, Urban Legends: Bloody Mary
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1909655
“Michael always adds to any role he’s cast in with solid performances.”
#4
Charla Bocchicchio
McCarty Talent Agency
Credits: Yellowstone, The Chosen, One Big Happy Family
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4377242
“Charla is consistent, professional, experienced, and easy to work with. She has become a fixture on any professional set in Utah and her giving nature has also led her to educate and inform her peers to help build everyone up.”
#3
Barbara Whinnery
TMG
Credits: True Blood, The Killing of Two Lovers, The Sheriffs of Savage Wells
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0924172
“Barbara Whinnery is a staple in the acting community. She worked in the LA market for many years and has been contributing to the Salt Lake City entertainment industry since 2016. Her versatility, sense of humor and commitment to her craft is impressive and has garnered her multiple roles.”
#2
Amie MacKenzie
McCarty Talent Agency
Credits: 1923, Mountainhead, The Madison
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1745697
“First TV role was in Better Call Saul and has worked steadily ever since. Films debuted at Sundance and SXSW (Kill Me) in 2026. Just appeared in Taylor Sheridan’s The Madison in a scene with Michelle Pfeiffer. Soon to appear in The Last Day alongside Alicia Vikander.”
#1
Doug Jones
Omnipop Talent Agency
Credits: HellBoy, Pan’s Labyrinth, The Shape of Water
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0427964
“Outside of inspiring everyone on set to bring their A-game, Doug is very kind and professional with his fellow cast as well as the crew.”
One thing became clear as we put this list together: forty spots is not enough.
For every actor who made the final cut, there were others who deserved to be here — people doing serious, consistent work with little fanfare and a lot of heart. That’s exactly why we’re doing this again next year.
If you work with actors — or are an actor — and you believe someone belongs on the 2027 Top 40 Over 40 list, we want to hear from you. Nominations open later this year, and the process is straightforward: tell us who’s working, why they stand out, and let the work speak for itself.
The best nominations don’t come from publicists. They come from the director who just wrapped with someone and thought, more people need to know about this person. They come from the agent who watches their client walk into every room prepared. They come from the co-star who saw someone nail a scene in one take and never forgot it.
If that person came to mind while you were reading this list — start thinking about how you’d describe them. We’ll be ready when nominations open.
And while you’re thinking about the people who make productions better — don’t stop at the actors.
Behind every great performance is a director who created the conditions for it. Someone who set the tone on day one, earned the trust of the room, and made decisions under pressure that no one in the audience ever sees. Great directors don’t just tell stories — they build the environment where stories become possible.
We’re now opening nominations for our next recognition list: Top Indie Film Directors. If you’ve worked with a director recently who impressed you — someone whose vision, leadership, and craft elevated the project — we want to know about them. Nominate the director who changed how you think about your work. Nominate the one you’d say yes to before they finish the sentence.
In the meantime, share this list. Tag the actors. Put it in front of the people in your industry who are casting, producing, and greenlighting. These forty people have earned the visibility. Help us give it to them.
