Expert: Taylor Sheppard - 2/22/2008

Question

My name is Matt Ross, and I wanted to ask about getting a film career started.  About a month ago, I left college due to the fact that I had taken all the acting classes required and did not want to waste money an frivolous gen. eds.

Could you tell me anything and everything that you know about getting an agent and beginning.  I'm not cocky at all, back I am very confident in my acting abilities (comedic and dramatic), and was told numerous times by profs. that I should move to LA and give it a try.  I can send my headshot or anything else to you as well, if it will help you give more specific advice to me.

Thank you very much for taking the time to read this and I look forward to any and all advice you can give.  Thanks again.

-Matt Ross

Answer
Hi Matt,

I know quite a few actors that have gone this road -dropping out after the core courses. I am torn on the issue, as I did that too (sort of) and often wish I had finished. You see, it is common for actors to have to work at "straight" jobs while they work toward the dream of being a full-time actor. Having a degree of any type helps toward landing those jobs, or others if the dream doesn't pan out or if what you want changes in time. A college degree is like a diploma or GED these days. The one thing about acting is, unless you are an A-lister, you always have to budget your money and be looking for the next paycheck. Many actors and stars have businesses to back themselves up. The recent writer's strike is an example of lean times that can happen through no fault of your own.
I guess what I'm saying is, there's time if you decided to finish up, if Hollywood wants you, it will want you in two years, have faith in yourself. It's a lot harder to go back later.

As to Hollywood: expect to put yourself out there for a couple years before you get established. Just getting the agent will be a job in itself. I am lucky that my agent, like some others, has a presence in California and here in Texas. I automatically have representation on both coasts, (Calif and our "Third Coast") so when it suits me, I can go out to audition and come back. I will always keep my Texas addy because I have no desire to pay Calif income tax among other things.

Do you have an agent? If you haven't gotten any paid roles in your area, that will make your getting an agent more difficult. As you can imagine, having a resume is necessary when you are going to bat in the majors. It might be good to get an agent in your area and rack up some credits before you head out. I was always advised in the beginning to not even think of going to LA without my SAG eligibility, because finding an agent without it would be almost impossible. I took their advice.

Whatever you decide is best, I can't stress hard enough to keep training and NEVER give up. You will get beaten down many times before you get one success, but that's how it goes. Those who quit easily never make it!

Best,

Taylor