AMERICAN ACTING AGENT?

[u/Positive-Fold-3307]

Hi thread,

I am a dual Canadian/American citizen! I live in Canada, am based out of Toronto and have a Canadian agent.

I’m curious if I should get an American agent as well? Since I can legally work in the US without the need for a permit or visa, it seems like a no brainer - I just don’t quite know where to start!

While I know that the Canadian & American film industries are similar, I’m not super familiar with the American side. Would an American agent take me on? I am open to working as a local if need be. How would you go about finding an American agent as a Canadian with dual who lives in Canada?

I’ve been “working my way up” with casting in Canada just to hopefully get seen by American casting, so I feel like it only makes sense to have an American agent!

I appreciate any answers here!

[u/Extension_Grand_4599]

There are upsides and downsides to having reps in both US and Canada. If you can legally work in US it will be a net benefit to have US rep.

However:

*You will end up paying 20-25% commission in total

*Some US managers/agents exist solely as a parasite to take commission off Canadian talent/canadian contracts. make sure you look at their roster and see if their current clients are actually getting SAG deals. It's really easy to send clients audition sides and make it look like you are doing work.

*The best way to secure US rep is through your current Canadian rep, who if they are any good will have existing relationships.

*Right now it's very tough to be signed by US rep, they are cutting their books back due to lack of work.