Celebs & Gossip Top 10 Talent Agencies

For the Hollywood uninitiated, attracting an agent can be a daunting process. Most agencies won’t reveal whom they represent, and if they do, the clientele is subject to change without notice. The “Big Five” only sign those who've been referred by an industry insider, existing client or mutual friend. If a young hopeful (could it be you?) dreams of being repped by one of these agencies, there are a few essential steps to take: fortify the resume, get headshots, and network like your life depends on it. Here's a primer on the biggies, listed in alphabetical order. —Margo Fortuny

Agency for the Performing Arts (APA)

These cats are recognized for their stable of sought-after comedians and their metal division, which includes Judas Priest and Poison. Rumor has it the head of the mailroom has a very illustrious past. Scandal, anyone?

Creative Artists Agency (CAA)

The most prestigious agencies, like CAA, negotiate the highest-profile roles for the most bank. If you’re not in Us Weekly this week and you haven’t won an Oscar in the past few years, best start at a humbler agency and work your way up to the top five.

Diverse Talent Group

These primetime bookers negotiate TV talent for a gamut of shows including “Lost,” “Deadwood,” “NCIS,” “Seventh Heaven,” “Charmed,” “One Tree Hill,” “The Young and the Restless,” “General Hospital” and “Days of Our Lives.” The agency also deals with lesser-known actors, and models.

Endeavor

One of the cofounders of this agent’s agency inspired “Entourage” character Ari Gold. Endeavor has snagged established actors like Dustin Hoffman, as well as bright young things like James Franco.

The Gersh Agency

The Gersh Agency, dubbed Gersh or simply TGA, is the only mega-successful family-run agency. They fast-forward young actors' careers as well as taking care of the older clients in for the long haul.

International Creative Management, Inc. (ICM)

This agency has a great reputation for selling foreign films and television shows, and is known for a galvanizing comedy division. ICM’s talent roster is on par with that of CAA and William Morris.

Osbrink Agency

This is a tight-knit, smaller agency that specializes in child actors. It was created by a former stage mom, Cindy Osbrink. Today it represents the most bankable tweens, who appear a range of projects, from controversial Sundance films to hit TV series. Yup, that includes Dakota Fanning.

Paradigm

This agency emphasizes representation with a familial feel, operating out of swank Beverly Hills headquarters where indie film stars flock.

United Talent Agency (UTA)

In addition to a plum group of actors, UTA represents today’s hottest innovative young filmmakers. Industry folk turn to UTA for the latest directors on the rise.

10.

William Morris Agency

This powerhouse has been representing the legends of Hollywood for 109 years. Charlie Chaplin, the Marx Brothers, Clark Gable, Judy Garland, Will Rogers, Marilyn Monroe, Dick Van Dyke, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, the Rolling Stones, Clint Eastwood, John Travolta have all signed contracts here. Household names only need apply.

I live in Memphis and I plan on moving to Cali to pursue my career in acting. What are some of the things that I need to know and do before and after I have arrived in Cali. How do I get started?

Posted 01/25/08 11:24PM PST by Cooli

It is worth trying for agency like the gersh.I plan to continue my persuit.It open up so many opportunities.

Posted 11/01/07 05:41PM PDT by thomas winston