do acting agents cost money???????

Question

do acting agents cost money

Answer 1

NEVER pay an agent money upfront for anything. They get 10% commission AFTER you get the job.


Also, newcomers should realize that unless you are a well known actor or voice-over actor, agents do not technically "get you" roles. They "get you" auditions, then YOU "get you" the call backs and 2nd call backs, and 3rd call backs, and hopefully the roles eventually, by doing awesome performances!!

Agents also negotiate your contract for you (and sometimes "negotiates" you right out of the job!)

Answer 2

Simple answer, some do now and some do later....

Explanation: Almost anyone with access to certain people in a given industry or in the instance with actors, have access to the daily breakdowns, can call themselves agents or personal managers. They can charge you a fee up front or on a monthly basis as a way of "offsetting the cost of promoting you". They can tell you that you need to go to a particular acting coach or use a particular photographer to get new headshots. About 95% of the time if they are insistant that you use only these people they are getting some type of kick back off of it.

This is the reason why, if you're looking for a theatrical agent, you need to find one that is sanctioned by either SAG or AFTRA or both! Those unions have guidelines in place that state that an agent may only take a certain agreed upon percentage after the performer has been paid. They also can't demand you use a certain teacher or photographer as a basis for not repping you.

An agent provides a service to assist you, and like all services you will have to pay for it eventually. But if you side with an AFTRA/SAG agent, at least you know that expense won't be coming out of pocket. Best of luck!

Answer 3

Agents get a standard 10% once you get paid and not before. I know most States, if not all, require an agent to be licensed and many agents are union franchised, but not many of these will handle non-union actors. Even if you are lucky enough to find an agent, personal manager, or both you will still have look for opportunities for roles on your own as well. They would expect this if you are serious. Many of the famous actors also seek out their own jobs still.

Answer 4

No, you never pay a talent agent. Agents are only entitled to a 10% commission, it some cities an Agent may get a 15% commission.

Answer 5

When you are an actor/actress whose career is at a momentum that demands an AGENT - you won't have to worry - they will hunt you down - however- Agents usually do get a percentage of your earnings.

When I was an agent for Gospel Music Artists - I made 10 percent of the gross earnings that I negotiated. There are other times when you might have commercials, etc, (that might require more agent income)

An actor pays out a lot - you have agents, financial advisors (taxes), Media reps (they keep your name in the paper when you want and out when you want) Managers, hair stylists, Assistants, etc.

Answer 6

I know im repeating but its short and sweet- get an SAG certified agent, once you do your first commercial or movie- then you get paid and then your agent gets 10 percent of your check.

Answer 7

No! They make money after you make money!
(10% to be exact and managers gets 25%)

Answer 8

only 10% AFTER you get the job and after you do the job. Never before.

Tony
http://www.actingcareerstartup.com/acs-blog.html

Answer 9

simply, NO. They cost time and effort getting ready to apply and to audition.

Answer 10

yes