Talent Rep Contracts: The Not-So-Glamorous Side of Showbiz
Understanding Contracts from Agents & Managers
Signing with a talent agent or manager is a huge step in your child’s acting career, but before you celebrate, there’s one thing you must do: read the contract.
Whether you’re signing with an agent, a manager, or both, these contracts outline how they’ll represent your child, what they get paid, and how the relationship can end. And trust me—you want to understand every word before signing.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Key contract clauses for both agents & managers
✔ Standard commission rates & payment structures
✔ How agency and management contracts differ
✔ Termination clauses & exit strategies
✔ What to watch out for before signing
Agent vs. Manager: What’s the Difference?
Before we get into contracts, let’s clarify what agents and managers actually do.
Do You Need Both?
Not necessarily! Many child actors start with just an agent, as agents are the ones who actually get auditions. A manager can be useful for development clients as well as high-level career strategy.
📌 Important: Some agents try to act as managers, and some managers claim they can get auditions like agents. Legally, only agents can procure work for actors.
Key Clauses in Talent Representation Contracts
While contracts can vary, here are the most important sections to review for both agents and managers.
1. Time Frame (Contract Length)
Most agent and manager contracts are for 1 year, with the option to renew. Some agents in LA work on a handshake agreement for the first few months before offering a contract.
🚨 Red flag: Be wary of multi-year contracts—especially with an agent. The first year is a trial period to see if the relationship is working. If an agent or manager insists on a 3+ year contract, push for a shorter term.
2. Commission & Payment
This is where agents and managers differ the most.
Agent Commissions
• 10% → The standard SAG-AFTRA commission for union jobs.
• 15% → More common for non-union agents in Canada.
• 20%+ → 🚨 Red flag! Any agent charging over 20% is not following industry norms.
Manager Commissions
• 10–15% is standard.
• Unlike agents, managers can commission all of your child’s income (not just jobs they helped book).
• Be careful if a manager tries to take more than 15%.
🚨 Watch Out For Fees!
• No upfront fees – Legitimate agents and managers do not charge upfront.
• No “required” acting classes or headshot packages – These are often scams.
3. Termination Clause
A good contract should allow you to leave if things aren’t working out. Before signing, find out:
✔ How do you terminate the agreement? (Written notice? 30-day waiting period?)
✔ Are there exit penalties? (Some contracts require commissions for a set period after termination.)
✔ Is there an automatic renewal clause? (Avoid contracts that automatically renew without notice.)
💡 Tip: If your child isn’t getting auditions, you should be able to walk away without major penalties.
Agent Contracts: SAG-AFTRA vs. General Service Agreements (GSA)
SAG-AFTRA Franchised Agents
SAG-AFTRA franchised agents must use SAG’s standard contract, which includes:
✔ A 10% commission cap
✔ Clear termination terms
✔ SAG-AFTRA’s involvement in disputes
To check if an agent is SAG-AFTRA franchised, visit the SAG-AFTRA website.
General Service Agreements (GSA)
Most larger agencies use General Service Agreements (GSAs) instead of SAG’s contract. GSAs are not standardized, meaning:
• Commission rates & contract terms vary
• Some GSAs require commissions on additional income (like branding deals)
• Terms are negotiable
📌 Bottom line: If given a GSA contract, read it carefully and have an entertainment lawyer review it.
Manager Contracts: What’s Different?
1. Scope of Representation
Managers may claim commission on all income your child earns. If your child is already working, make sure the contract doesn’t include past income.
2. Key Man Clause
If signing with a management company (not an individual), ask about a Key Man Clause.
🔑 What it means: If your main contact (the manager you signed with) leaves the company, can you leave too?
Without this clause, you could be stuck with a company you didn’t choose.
3. Power of Attorney (🚨 Red Flag!)
Some managers ask for Power of Attorney so they can sign contracts and cash checks on your child’s behalf.
🚨 NEVER agree to this. No manager should have that much control.
4. Arbitration Clause
Many manager contracts include an arbitration clause, meaning disputes must be settled outside of court.
✔ This is normal in entertainment contracts.
✔ Make sure the arbitration happens in your state, not across the country.
6 Tips for a Smooth Signing Experience
1. Get an Attorney to Review the Contract
Even if it looks fine, have a lawyer check it. It’s worth it.
2. Don’t Feel Pressured to Sign Immediately
A good rep will give you time to review it.
🚩 Red flags:
• Being rushed to sign
• Being discouraged from seeking legal advice
• Given a tight deadline to return the contract
3. Double-Check Payment Clause
✔ 10% is standard for agents
✔ 15% is standard for managers
🚨 Over 20% is a red flag!
4. Understand Termination Terms
✔ How much notice is required?
✔ Are there post-termination commissions?
5. Research the Agent/Manager
• Are they licensed (if required in your state)?
• Are they SAG-AFTRA franchised?
• Do they have a good industry reputation?
6. Save a Copy of the Signed Contract
Once signed, keep a copy in a safe place.
Signing with an agent or manager is exciting, but never rush into a contract.
✔ Do your research.
✔ Ask questions.
✔ Consult a lawyer if needed.
A great agent or manager can help launch your child’s career—but the right contract ensures they’re protected along the way.
Got questions? Drop them in the comments or check out Child Actor 101 for more resources!
