Six years after making headlines for working at a Trader Joe’s, Geoffrey Owens is opening up about the realities of his life as an actor. You might remember Owens from his role as Elvin Tibideaux on The Cosby Show. But his journey hasn’t been all glitz and glamor.
In a recent interview with Atlanta’s V-103 radio station, the 63-year-old actor shared that making ends meet is still a daily challenge. “People think actors have it easy, but for many of us, it’s not true,” Owens explained. “I struggle every day to get by.”
The average actor in 2023 made about $62,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While that might sound decent, it includes everything from big movie roles to local theater gigs. Owens, like many, has had to hustle to stay afloat.
Owens also reflected on the infamous moment in 2018 when a shopper photographed him working at a Trader Joe’s in New Jersey. The photos went viral, sparking both criticism and praise. Celebrities like Terry Crews applauded him for doing “honest work,” while Nicki Minaj donated $25,000 to support him.
Since then, Owens has landed roles in shows like NCIS: New Orleans and CBS’s Poppa’s House. He’s even starring in a new Christmas film, Mr. Santa: A Christmas Extravaganza.
Owens’ story is a reminder that success isn’t always what it seems—and that hard work and humility matter more than public perception.
