Marvel and DC Actors Confess: We'll Play Anyone—Even Rosa Parks—Just to Work

Forget prestige TV. Even actors with Marvel and DC credits are struggling to make ends meet in Hollywood. Ilana Kohanchi (WandaVision, Chicago P.D.) and Dustin Ybarra (Gotham, Home Economics) pulled back the curtain on the brutal reality of the post-COVID, post-strike entertainment industry, admitting they’ll take "pretty much everything" that comes their way. Ybarra, known for his comedic roles, didn’t mince words: "My agent could call me tomorrow and be like, 'You've been offered a role.' I'm taking it. 'What is it, Rosa Parks? Okay, I'll play Rosa. I don't care.'" Kohanchi echoed the sentiment, "Let's do it! Let's get a dress!"

Their latest project, "The Second Coming of John Cooper," is a stoner comedy about a disgraced A-list star trying to claw his way back. While the film satirizes celebrity, the grind behind the scenes is all too real for its cast. Both Kohanchi and Ybarra confessed to periods of financial uncertainty, relying on residuals or considering odd jobs. Kohanchi recounted early days in L.A. nannying, tutoring, and teaching ballroom dance. Ybarra, a seasoned standup comedian, admitted to looking at his bank account and thinking, "Do I have to start DoorDashing or something?" He even joked about pushing for viewers on Instagram just for the "cash" from residuals.

This isn't just about indie actors. These are performers with significant credits on major network shows and streaming hits. Yet, they face an industry slowdown where picking and choosing roles is a luxury few can afford. "I don't necessarily know many actors who are walking around like, 'I'll take this' and 'I won't take that.' We're going to take jobs," Kohanchi stated plainly.