FAQ

Whats the focus of Direct Talent Management?

We represent all types of creatives. We also seek out unique and under-represented talent in the form of LGBTQ+, minority, and other groups who have not traditionally been represented onscreen in authentic ways. Helping marginalized groups be seen is vital to our mission.

Since 1996, guiding the careers of Actors and Musicians has been at the heart of what we do. In 2024 we expanded to work with Crew creatives in various fields.

• 1996 NYC: Agents for Musicians

• 2001 LA: Managers for Musicians

• 2004 LA: Managers for Actors and Musicians

• 2024 LA: Expanded Management to include Crew professionals for Film & TV

Learn all about our 28-year history in the entertainment business here.

What’s the difference between a Manager and an Agent?

A Personal Manager is not the same as an Agent. Managers review offers with you to give career guidance and expert advice, but do not seek work opportunities. By California law, only an Agent can negotiate the legal terms of a contract. If you already have Agency representation we work hand-in-hand with them to get you the right opportunities, but if you don’t yet have an Agent we will help connect you with one that’s the best fit for your long-term career goals.

Do all actors need a Manager?

Not always. Many actors do just fine with only an Agent seeking job opportunities for them, but Agents also have many clients to pick from for an opportunity (dozens, and sometimes even hundreds) and unless you already have name recognition and are “in demand” you could easily get lost in the shuffle. A Manager on the other hand is dedicated to developing and nurturing your individual career over the long haul and will push you to Casting Agents, Directors and Producers for roles we feel will add value to your reel. A Manager will often have only a handful of clients that are essentially like family due to the special nature of the Talent/Manager working relationship. Because of this, we are far more selective in who we choose to represent because it takes a great deal of time, money, and effort to maintain an Actor’s career to the standard it deserves.

There’s also a certain caché to having a Manager for the simple fact that it’s easier to get Agency representation than to attract a Manager. Since actors usually aren’t represented by a Manager until they are further along in their careers, being able to legitimately say “I’ll have my Manager call you” shows that you have achieved some level of success.

Do I need to be based in the Los Angeles area to be represented by you?

In most cases yes, due to the requirement to attend casting sessions and to meet with your representatives when needed. You should be located in the greater Los Angeles region with the ability to attend casting calls with reasonable notice. We consider this to be generally within 2-hours of central Hollywood.

If you are serious about a career in the entertainment business it’s worth considering a permanent move to Los Angeles, New York, or another center of the industry, but only you can decide if the time is right.

What does it costs to be represented?

We don’t get paid until you get paid, and then it is a industry-standard percentage based on your earnings. Be wary of any Manager or Agent who asks for money up front, or demands that you use a particular headshot photographer or acting coach. Having said that, a Manager or Agent may still recommend resources to you because we often have long-time working relationships with various professionals and know which ones won’t waste your time & money, but you should never feel pressured to work with any specific coach or photographer. We guide, you decide.

What kinds of talent do you represent?

We are primarily focused on Actors but have expanded to a variety of roles within the creative realm. We remain open to hearing about your particular passion. We have represented a wide range of talent including Actors, Musicians, Writers, Directors, Producers, and more.

Do I need to be SAG-AFTRA or Union affiliated?

We prefer Union-affiliated professionals because of the many protections they provide you, but are willing to consider those who do not yet have Union status so long as that is something you are interested in working towards. We at Direct know that unions create better, safer, and higher-paying opportunities for all Industry professionals.

If we choose to work together, how long before I see my name in lights?

Your success is directly related to the effort you put into your craft. In most cases, it takes many years of hard work before actors see any real payoff for their efforts, and the cold reality is that some never do. The days of being discovered at the local soda fountain shop are long gone. Today there’s intense competition for roles and creative positions in “The Biz.” If you’ve been successful in your craft to some degree and think you’ve got what it takes, have the determination to stick it out for many years, and can handle the many rejections that come before each success, then you’re in a good position to have a lasting career in entertainment.