The Ego Trap in the Entertainment Industry: Why Confidence Shouldn’t Turn Into Arrogance

The entertainment industry is full of people who act like royalty just because they’ve managed to make a movie often a terrible one. It’s shocking how some folks develop an inflated ego despite their work being, at best, mediocre. How do you get cocky when you’re bad at what you do?

But this isn’t just about bad films. It’s about a deeper issue in Hollywood and the entertainment world: people tying their self-worth to their success, losing their authenticity in the process.

Why Do People in Entertainment Develop Inflated Egos?

A little bit of success a role, a credit, or a connection should be motivation to keep working harder, to refine your craft. But instead, for some, it becomes a reason to act untouchable.

A few reasons why this happens:

• Insecurity masked as confidence – Many creatives are still seeking approval, and once they get recognition, they overcompensate.

• Perception over reality – The industry runs on image, and some believe they have to act bigger than they are to be taken seriously.

• Tying self-worth to bookings – Many actors, directors, and producers attach their identity to their projects, making their ego rise and fall with each success or failure.

The Dangers of an Ego-Driven Career

When you let arrogance replace growth, you stop improving. Many talented individuals get stuck in their own hype, failing to develop their skills because they believe they’ve already “made it.”

Here’s what happens when you prioritize ego over craft:

• You stop learning – Mastery requires humility, and arrogance shuts down growth.

• You alienate collaborators – No one wants to work with someone who acts superior but lacks substance.

• You lose yourself – If your entire identity is wrapped up in what you book rather than who you are, you’ll struggle when the roles or opportunities slow down.

How to Stay Grounded in the Entertainment Industry

If you’re stepping into this business, know who you are first. Build your self-esteem, stand firm in your identity, and don’t let external validation define you.

Here’s how to stay authentic:

• Develop real confidence, not performative arrogance.

• Master your craft before demanding respect.

• Surround yourself with people who keep you humble and accountable.

• Detach your self-worth from industry success.

The entertainment industry is tough, but it’s even tougher if you lose yourself in it. Confidence is necessary, but arrogance will hold you back. Real success isn’t just about individual talent it’s about how well you work with others. No great film, performance, or production happens in isolation. The most respected professionals in the industry understand that collaboration is the key to longevity. Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you, and never let ego get in the way of creating something greater than yourself.

Stay focused on your craft, stay humble, and remember real success speaks for itself.

Roshaun Akeem Page

Founder/Filmmaker of It’s a R.A.P. Production