Why do they mostly use actors in their late 20s or early 30s to play teenage roles in movies/ tv series? Couldn’t they use teenage actors instead?

Question

Why do they mostly use actors in their late 20s or early 30s to play teenage roles in movies/ tv series? Couldn’t they use teenage actors instead?

In: 8

Answer 1

There’s a few downsides to using actual teenagers.

First off, they’re usually less experienced so it’s more difficult to find quality teen actors. The ones in their twenties have had more chance to practice, develop and prove themselves.

There’s also child labour laws. I’m not sure if this still applies, but back when Harry Potter was filmed they had to use doubles for the main cast in background scenes. The work limits for minors make the filling take too long otherwise. Having an adult actor means having someone who can work long days and speed up filming