So, you want to be an actor? That’s awesome! Whether you dream of starring in blockbuster films, stealing scenes on TV, or performing on stage, one thing is certain. You need a good agent. The right agent can get you auditions, negotiate your contracts, and help you build a real career in the industry. But here’s the thing. Not every agent is legit, and plenty of so-called “agents” are just looking to take advantage of eager newcomers.
If you are just starting out, it is easy to fall for the wrong person. Some agents will overpromise, charge ridiculous fees, or worse, waste your time without ever landing you a single audition. Let’s talk about the biggest red flags to watch out for and how to actually find an agent who will help you succeed.
If They Ask for Money Upfront, Run
This is one of the biggest scams out there. A real agent makes money when you make money. They earn a percentage of what you book, usually around 10 to 20 percent, which means they have a real reason to help you land roles. If someone calls themselves an agent but asks for money upfront, whether it’s for headshots, a website, or some kind of “registration fee” then you should walk away. That is not how real agents work.
Legit agents believe in their clients. They invest their time in getting you auditions and only get paid when you start booking jobs. If someone is asking for money before they have done anything for you, they are not an agent. They are just running a business that profits off actors without ever getting them real work.
No One Can Guarantee You Work
Any agent who promises you’ll land roles, especially big ones, is lying. Acting is competitive. Even well-known actors audition for roles and don’t always get them. A good agent can get you in the room, but it is your talent, training, and look that will determine whether you book the job.
A real agent will be upfront with you about the challenges of the industry. They will encourage you, help you find the right roles to audition for, and give you honest feedback. But if someone is making big promises or guaranteeing success? That is a scam, plain and simple.
Do Your Research Before Signing Anything
Before you sign with an agent, do some digging. Look them up online. Check if they are affiliated with reputable industry organizations like SAG AFTRA. Read reviews. Ask other actors if they have heard of them.
A good agent will have a strong track record and real working actors on their roster. If you can’t find anything about them, or worse, you find complaints and bad reviews, that is a bad sign. You don’t want to get stuck with someone who does nothing for your career or, even worse, damages your reputation.
Know the Difference Between an Agent and a Manager
A lot of new actors confuse agents and managers, and some shady people take advantage of that. Agents are the ones who get you auditions and negotiate your contracts. Managers, on the other hand, focus on career guidance, branding, and overall strategy.
Here is where things get tricky. Some managers charge upfront fees, which can be normal, but no real agent should ever ask you for money. If someone who is calling themselves an agent is charging a monthly or annual fee, they are not really an agent. They are either a manager or just someone looking to make money off hopeful actors without actually helping them book jobs.
Be Careful About Signing an Exclusive Contract Too Soon
Some agents will try to lock you into a contract that prevents you from working with anyone else, even if they are not actually sending you out for auditions. While exclusive contracts can be a good thing later in your career, new actors should be careful.
If you do sign an exclusive contract, make sure there is a reasonable way to get out of it if the agent is not doing their job. You do not want to get stuck with someone who isn’t helping you move forward but won’t let you go work with someone else. Always read the fine print before signing anything.
How to Start Booking Work Before You Have an Agent
If you are brand new to acting, don’t stress about finding an agent right away. Instead, focus on building experience so that when you do start looking for representation, you have something to show.
Here are some great ways to start booking work on your own:
- Audition for student and indie films. Film schools and independent filmmakers are always looking for actors. These projects give you on-camera experience and can help you build your reel.
- Join local theater productions. Theater is great for improving your acting skills and looks good on your resume. Plus, casting directors love actors with stage experience.
- Sign up for casting websites. Websites like Backstage, Actors Access, and Casting Networks post tons of auditions for commercials, independent films, and even major projects.
- Network like crazy. Go to acting workshops, industry events, and film festivals. Many roles come from connections, and the more people you meet, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities.
- Get professional headshots. A high-quality headshot is your calling card in this industry. Make sure yours is professional, natural-looking, and shows your personality.
How to Actually Find a Legit Acting Agent
Once you have some experience under your belt, you can start looking for representation. The best way to find a legit agent is through research and recommendations.
Here’s how to do it:
- Look for agencies that represent actors at your level. You can find lists of reputable agencies through SAG AFTRA or by looking at actors with similar looks and career paths to yours.
- Submit a professional package. Your submission should include a well-written cover letter, a polished resume, a professional headshot, and if possible, a demo reel.
- Follow up, but don’t be annoying. Agents get tons of submissions, so if you don’t hear back right away, don’t panic. A polite follow-up email after a couple of weeks is fine.
- Be ready for an interview or audition. If an agent is interested, they might invite you to meet in person or self-tape a monologue. Treat this like a job interview—be professional, prepared, and ready to show them why you are a great actor to represent.
Just a Thought
Finding the right agent is a big deal, but it is not something you should rush into. Take your time, do your research, and trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. A great agent will believe in you, work hard to find you opportunities, and help you grow as an actor.
The entertainment industry is tough, but with the right people on your side, you can absolutely make it. Stay patient, keep improving your craft, and keep putting yourself out there. The right agent, and the right opportunities, will come when the time is right.
Exciting Opportunity: Be Part of the Film Spiraling
If you’re an actor looking for your next project or a film professional interested in getting involved in a meaningful story, we’d love to connect with you. Spiraling is an upcoming feature film that tackles addiction, redemption, and faith in a way that resonates deeply with audiences. We are currently looking for Executive Producers and Producers who want to be part of bringing this powerful story to life.
Closer to production, we will also be casting for supporting roles and extras, so keep an eye out for announcements. This is an incredible opportunity to be part of a film with heart, purpose, and a message that matters.
If you’re interested in getting involved, reach out today and let’s make something unforgettable together!