At 52, This Former Flight Attendant Wants To Break Into Hollywood

This is one story from HuffPost Fifty's new series "This Will Be Our Year: 15 Women Over 50 Shaking Things Up In 2015." We'll be following 15 remarkable ladies throughout the year as they make a radical change in their lives, whether it's embarking on a 500-mile hike, starting a new career or attempting to find love on the Internet. Follow each woman's story here.


Veronica Slater, 52, is trying to break into Hollywood as an actress.

"After high school, I wanted to move to New York and become an actress. My parents discouraged me, saying I needed a Plan B -- you know, something to fall back on that was more secure. So I got a job as a flight attendant; I flew as an international flight attendant for United Airlines for 22 years. Initially, I was drawn to the job because I thought I could use it as a bridge to an acting career. I was inspired by another United flight attendant who played Esther, the maid, on 'Days of Our Lives.' I thought if she could do it so could I. But flying was a lifestyle that got comfortable really fast. I easily got accustomed to the routine and forgot about my dream.

Then last year, I was offered a buyout from United and knew it was my golden opportunity -- my chance to skip Plan B and go back to Plan A. My first acting job was a featured background actor in 'Selma.' As soon as I got on the set, I knew right away that I was doing what I was born to do. In 2015, I'm going for it full force! I have an acting coach and I am currently with Aligned Stars agency.

My motto is 'Make your dream your Plan A instead of living your Plan B life.' I hope to inspire other women who have been playing it safe their whole lives. I think we all have to be a little fearless and trust our guts. The year is off to a great start. I already have booked roles in two movies and I just got my very own IMDB page! I will stay in Atlanta and since I have my flight benefits for life, I can go anywhere. Have plane, will travel!"