Hello!

Just looking for some advice on how to break the ice with an actor friend of mine about if his agent is taking people, would he refer me, etc.

I met this friend about a year and a half ago on a shoot. He is a fairly established character actor. basically, to make a long story short...his career is EXACTLY where I want mine to be at this point. He is by no means famous (and actually still takes the occasional day job) BUT he has some major speaking roles all through tv, cult movies, theatrical features, etc. and seems to be getting more and more all the time...

In my favor...we get along great. This guy has given me a lot of advice since I met him, all solid. He is also a great and very generous guy, so I'm sure he would help me out.

Not on my side...i haven't talked to him in a couple months. Not that that's TOO big a deal...but don't really want to give the impression I only call him when I want a favor.

anyway, as far as what I want to discuss with him, is:

Is his agent currently taking submissions, and if not, does he have an old agent who he would still recommend?

Is there anything that his agent particulalry responds to (ie, a big fan of demo reels, anything to leave off or emphasize on my current resume, anything to mention in my query letter...)

Does his current agent take non-SAG talent (my friend is SAG, i am not)?

Is he currently satisfied with his agent?

There's some other questions that are more specific...but you get the jist. General agent buisness, plus some overall career advice.

Anyway, just trying to approach it with tack. I think the best way is to call him up and e-mail him and basically say what I just said, except more direct and with the personal details. Definatly mention I am VERY impressed with his career at this point, as well as his talent as an actor (which he is darn good).

Oh, and one more thing NOT on my side as far as getting the SAME agent as my friend is that I am kind of the same type. A hieght difference of about 4 feet...him being hulkingly tall and me being weasilly short...but more or less similar character roles we would be playing. In fact...we met playing brothers!

Anyway, any advice from SAM or any of you would be GREATLY appreciated! thanks!

--john

Firstly, you said you met your friend on a shoot... this is good. There is nothing worse then someone asking for a referral from someone who has no idea about his or her ability.

That being said, I think the way you phrased it above is a good idea, ask if he knows if his agency is taking submissions first, and if the answer is yes, then ask him for a referral.

And all the questions you mentioned are great as well… as is your concern about being the same type. I think you have it well in hand, go for it.

Thanks Iceman!

Yeah, pretty much figured I wa already on track...just sort of "thinking out loud" and organizing my thoughts I guess...as well a somebody just might point out something I didn't think of!

--John