Expert: Taylor Sheppard - 2/1/2008

Question
Hello!  My daughter is 7 and is new to the industry -- she has obtained some modeling work, and we're trying acting as well (she recently auditioned for a TV pilot-which is on hold of course-and a commercial).  Last week, a New York talent management rep, who watched one of her auditions, wants to meet with us, stating that she has potential.  All great news, but reading this website, I've noticed you (all) prefer getting a talent agent (who earn 10-15% from commissions) rather than a personal manager (who may earn 20-25%).  If talent agents rarely accept unknowns, it seems to me that working first with a personal manager would be best (they tend to hunt for work for their unknowns, correct?); when the actor has experience under his/her belt, they should then seek an agent... no?  It also seems more logical to have an attorney review/negotiate a contract for the actor rather than an agent...what is your thought on this?  Thanks! Beth

Answer
Hi Beth,

Wow, this is an interesting situation!

Usually you get established with an agent, then go with a personal manager when you are getting to be a hot property. I am relieved that the deal is only a substantial chunk of change in the form of a percentage. If it were a fee instead, I would run.

If he has references, that would be a plus.

Casting sends out breakdowns to Talent agents who submit their talent who fit the demographic and "type" asked for. It would reasonable to assume that he has access to the breakdowns to also submit, but I think his role is more of a negotiator.

It might help to check to see if managers are required to be licensed by anyone in your area. Of course, if he doesn't respond well to your seeking credentials (references, etc) then that would be a red flag. Of course, you would ask in the nicest, most neutral way.

As to contracts, I have 1000% percent faith in my agent. I do monitor things, because I once had an agent that "sat on my check".
She didn't get around to paying me after 3 months, (which is very normal) and went longer. The three months has to do with billings to production houses which bill clients, etc., etc. but I tend to collect names and numbers so if I really smell something fishy, I can check around. That is a last resort, for obvious reasons. Don't want to wrongly accuse in the biz.

Contracts are standard and agents want to get your money so they can get their money. Many times mine will send a residual check for something I didn't know was being shown again. How does she do that???
It's their job to know SAG rates, non-SAG, buyouts, markets, radio, TV, movies, etc. Mine deals alot in Internet rights as well. The thing is, the standard contract has a clause that allows either the talent or agent to bail out in 30 days notice. That's if things don't work out. If I were dealing in HUGE money, I would maybe see a lawyer, but it's not really something I'd waste money on unless we are talking thousands of dollars.

She must really be something to get attention like this. Always be cautious, however. Scam artists prey on dreams and vanity. Especially when dealing with proud parents.

Good luck!

Taylor