\"The Actor\" is a 1968 song written by Justin Hayward. It was first released on their 1968 album In 'Search of the Lost Chord.' \"The Actor\" is one of Justin Hayward's signature love ballads. The song's lyrics tell the story of a young woman who falls in love with an actor. However, this love is unrequited, since she only sees the actor once when \"The Curtain rises.\" The song prominently features Justin Hayward singing along with an acoustic guitar. Ray Thomas is also prominently featured playing the flute behind Hayward's voice.