From commercials and regional theater to network television and blockbuster films, actors need agents to connect them with casting directors, producers, and opportunities. Here, we'll examine agencies in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta that cater to actors at various career stages. Whether you're starting your career or considering a step up to bigger opportunities, this should help you find the correct representation.
Acting agencies bridge the gap between performers and casting opportunities. Typically, they pitch their clients to casting directors, negotiate contracts, and help guide actors' careers in the long term. Actors can struggle to access auditions for major film, TV, and theater productions without representation.
Across the country, from New York City to Los Angeles, and around the world, agencies are catering to actors, ranging from A-listers to emerging talent. However, all focus on securing opportunities for their clients. The type of agency you work with will depend on you and your current stage in your acting career.
Many acting agencies require a submission or a referral. | Photo by Avel Chuklanov
How to Submit to an Acting Agency
Step 1
Research Agencies
Identify agencies that match your career stage (beginner, mid-career, or established). Focus on those that accept new submissions instead of referral-only firms.
Step 2
Prepare Your Materials
Have a professional headshot, updated résumé, and a reel (or clips of performances). For voiceover, include a polished demo in MP3 format.
Step 3
Follow Submission Guidelines
Check each agency's website for specific requirements. Some prefer online forms, others accept email, while top-tier agencies are referral-only. Never send unsolicited packages.
Step 4
Submit Professionally
Send your materials according to their instructions. Keep your message concise, polite, and professional.
Step 5
Wait and Follow Up
Most agencies only respond if interested. If you don't hear back, focus on training, auditions, and building credits. You can reapply or try other agencies later.
Acting Agencies for Beginners
Actors who are just starting their careers won't have access to the biggest agencies, which are often by referral only. Instead, they need to look to beginner-friendly agencies that are open to new submissions and have substantial commercial, youth, or regional divisions. Look for agencies that focus on building résumés through TV ads, local theater, and smaller roles.
Thinking about where to go?
There are a number of places around the world where you can start an acting career.
These agencies are often the first stepping stones for actors to bigger opportunities, and while we can't name them all, here are a few across the country including options outside of NYC and LA like agencies in Chicago, to get you started on your search.
star
How to Approach Agencies
Most agencies receive hundreds of submissions each month, so standing out requires professionalism. Always send a clear headshot, résumé, and reel, nothing more, nothing less. Follow their guidelines to the letter, whether that means filling out a website form or emailing a casting division directly. Agents notice actors who present themselves as organized, respectful, and easy to work with.
DDO Artists Agency (NYC)
DDO Artists is recognized for its strong youth and commercial divisions, making it an ideal starting point for child actors and newcomers.
The agency accepts online submissions for several divisions, which lowers the barrier for aspiring actors to get noticed.
DDO clients regularly book national commercials, print campaigns, and early television roles, providing beginners with steady résumé-building opportunities.
Its approachable reputation has helped many young actors transition from small projects into recurring TV and stage roles.
The Osbrink Agency (Los Angeles)
Founded in 1993, Osbrink is famous for launching the careers of young stars, including Dakota and Elle Fanning.
The agency handles film, TV, commercials, print, and voiceover, giving beginners exposure to multiple areas of the industry.
Osbrink’s submission process is beginner-friendly, allowing online forms with photos, résumés, and reels.
With a reputation for nurturing talent from child stardom into adult careers, Osbrink is widely recognized as a developmental agency.
Big Mouth Talent (Chicago)
Big Mouth Talent focuses exclusively on Chicago-based performers, making it an accessible choice for beginners in the Midwest.
It is a member of the Association of Talent Agents (ATA), which ensures professional standards and credibility.
The agency accepts submissions via email for both adults and children, simplifying the entry process for those without existing industry connections.
Big Mouth’s clients frequently appear in Chicago-based productions such as Chicago Fire and Empire, ideal résumé-builders for new actors.
The Avenue Model & Talent Agency (Atlanta)
With over 20 years of experience in the Southeast, The Avenue represents children, teens, and adults across film, television, commercials, and print.
The agency is SAG-AFTRA franchised, meaning even beginners can access union-approved projects.
It accepts online submissions through its website, giving aspiring actors a clear entry path.
Known for its family-focused approach, The Avenue supports talent across all ages, making it beginner-friendly for children and adults alike.
Start your acting career with the right agencies. | Photo by Nick Karvounis
Agencies for Mid-Career Actors
The following agencies are for mid-career actors; those who have professional credits and reels but are still looking to secure larger roles, steady work, or even crossover opportunities. The agencies at this level will look to balance personal attention with bigger projects in television, film, and theater. They might be selective, but they recognize the value of actors who've proven themselves in smaller productions, including multi-city options and those in the Hollywood of the South, Atlanta, Georgia.
stars
Why Acting Agencies Matter
Acting agencies open doors that most actors can’t access on their own. They connect performers with casting directors, negotiate contracts, and guide long-term career growth. Whether it’s commercials, television, film, or theater, agencies play a central role in moving actors from auditions to professional opportunities.
A3 Artists Agency
A3 is a bi-coastal full-service agency, formerly known as Abrams, with strong divisions in film, television, theater, and voiceover.
It is well-suited for actors who already have professional credits and are looking to expand into multi-platform opportunities.
Known for its strength in comedy and commercials, A3 also represents voiceover artists across animation, video games, and advertising.
The agency emphasizes career longevity, helping mid-career actors move into recurring and lead roles.
Innovative Artists
Innovative Artists is recognized for its strong ties to both Broadway and Hollywood, making it an ideal agency for actors with stage experience seeking on-screen work.
It often represents mid-career actors ready to bridge the gap between theater, television, and film.
The agency has a reputation for personalized client management, offering boutique attention despite its significant presence.
Its roster includes actors who have successfully transitioned from New York theater into mainstream television and film roles.
Stewart Talent (Chicago)
Stewart Talent is one of Chicago’s most prominent agencies, with additional offices in Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta.
It is known for developing actors who have built up résumés in regional theater or commercials and are ready for national opportunities.
The agency accepts online submissions and occasionally holds open calls for specific divisions, making it both accessible and selective.
Clients often move between stage, print, commercial, and recurring television roles, reflecting its multi-disciplinary focus.
Hayes Talent Agency (Atlanta)
Hayes Talent Agency, founded by Michelle Hayes, operates with a boutique, hands-on approach across film, television, theater, and commercials.
It works with both emerging and mid-career actors. Still, its roster includes performers appearing in acclaimed shows like The Bear and Fargo.
The agency maintains offices in multiple cities, providing flexibility and cross-market opportunities for its actors.
Hayes is especially valued for its balance of personal attention with access to high-level Southeast productions.
Make sure your acting agency will find you work to advance your career. | Photo by Rusty Watson
Agencies for Established Actors
These are the agencies at the top end of the industry. These are the global agencies that represent established stars, award winners, and household names. Almost all of these will only sign actors by referral and shape the careers of actors in massive film, television, and stage productions.
Top actors work with the most exclusive acting agencies. | Photo by Shlag
These agencies can represent entire creative teams, including directors, producers, and writers, meaning actors have access to massive projects, which is why most have offices in multiple cities or are based in the biggest production hubs like Los Angeles and New York City.
Creative Artists Agency (CAA)
Founded in 1975, CAA is one of the most influential agencies in the entertainment industry, representing many of Hollywood's most prominent stars.
Its Los Angeles headquarters and New York office provide global reach in film, television, theater, sports, and fashion.
CAA is referral-only and typically works with high-profile, established actors and multi-disciplinary artists.
The agency has a reputation for shaping careers at the highest levels, with clients regularly winning Oscars, Emmys, and Tonys.
William Morris Endeavor (WME)
WME, created from the 2009 merger of William Morris and Endeavor, is one of the largest and oldest talent agencies in the world.
It represents leading actors, directors, musicians, and artists across virtually every area of entertainment.
With offices in Beverly Hills, New York, and globally, WME offers unmatched industry access for top-tier actors.
The agency is highly selective, focusing on A-list talent and often representing entire creative teams on significant projects.
United Talent Agency (UTA)
Founded in 1991, UTA is one of the “Big Four” agencies, representing some of the most-watched and celebrated actors.
UTA offers representation across film, television, theater, music, publishing, and podcasts.
The agency is known for championing creative voices and often supports clients who work across multiple media platforms.
Its roster includes top box-office names and award-winning actors, solidifying its reputation as an industry powerhouse.
Here's what agents are looking for.
The Gersh Agency
Gersh, founded in 1949, is the fourth-largest agency in the United States and remains a family-owned business.
It represents a broad range of actors in both Hollywood and Broadway, from rising stars to established names.
Known for its balance of boutique service and big-agency resources, Gersh appeals to actors seeking prestige projects.
The agency has offices in both Beverly Hills and New York, linking stage and screen opportunities.
Paradigm Talent Agency
Paradigm, established in 1992, operates nine offices across the U.S., Canada, and London, giving it a substantial international scope.
It represents award-winning actors, writers, and musicians, making it a cross-industry leader.
Paradigm is recognized for helping clients move between film, television, and music careers.
Its roster includes both critically acclaimed actors and mainstream stars, reflecting its diverse influence within the industry.
Atlanta Models & Talent (AMT) / FORMATION Talent
AMT, founded in 1959, was Atlanta’s first full-service modeling and talent agency and remains a SAG-AFTRA franchised firm.
It represents both actors and models across television, film, commercials, and print, with deep roots in the Southeastern United States.
FORMATION Talent, formerly known as People Store, rebranded in 2025 but has been operating in Atlanta since 1983 as a boutique agency.
Both agencies are selective, often working with trained, experienced actors ready for recurring and lead roles in major productions.
Enjoyed this article?Leave a rating!
5.00 (2 rating(s))
Loading...
Joseph
Joseph is a French and Spanish to English translator, copywriter, and all-round language enthusiast.
Our Take on America's Best Male Actors of All Time Hollywood has been graced by countless talented actors, each changing the world of cinema in their own way. From comedy and romance to action and horror, these actors have left generations with unforgettable performances. Here’s a tribute to 15 of Hollywood’s best American actors of […]
What Are the Best Acting Schools? The United States is home to some of the best acting schools in the world, attracting aspiring actors from across the globe. Whether you dream of performing on Broadway or starring in television or movies, attending a top-notch acting school can be the way to break into the industry […]
Top Tips on How to Become a Voice Actor Embarking on a journey to start a career as a voice actor offers a universe of opportunities to make a positive impact through various projects, learn endlessly about diverse industries, and build lasting connections. With the freedom to work from anywhere on your schedule and the […]
The Various Types of Musicals "There's a million things I haven't done, but just you wait." Hamilton Done up with lavish sets and showcasing artists’ precisely executed dance steps and powerful vocals, people couldn’t wait until the next big hit… from Singin’ in the Rain to Saturday Night Fever, these shows (and later, films) played […]
From Audition to Stage: A Guide to Perfecting Your Audition Starting an acting career from scratch can be so tedious and intimidating that you could probably make an Oscar-worthy movie about the overwhelming process alone. Preparing for auditions can feel extremely hectic, and you can get demotivated and give up at any point. It's common […]
A Guide To Getting Acting Jobs When Studying At College Successful careers in acting need equal parts practice and talent with a pinch of luck. Actors-at-work can be heard and seen everywhere, from cinema (big screen) to television, theater to the internet, podcasts to videos, etc. They portray all sorts of characters from ancient times […]
What You Need To Know About Stand Up Comedy Scene In The US Stand-up comedy is a form of art where a comedian comes on stage either alone or accompanied by one or two other people, called the openers. Stand-up comedians usually make jokes about themselves and tell personal stories to amuse their audience. For […]
The Basics When Starting Acting Classes Deciding to start acting classes can be a bit nerve-wracking, regardless if you are comfortable being in front of a camera or an audience. But starting acting classes will determine whether you want to make acting your career and if this is something you truly really love doing. In […]
Landing Acting Jobs in the States Acting jobs can be found throughout the US. If you live in LA, you might know a ton of actors or at least inspiring actors looking for gigs. But audition opportunities for jobs in the entertainment industry are not only found in Hollywood! There are plenty of other hubs […]
12/13/2019 ∙ 6 minutes to read
Frequently asked questions
🎭 How do I join an agency for acting?
To join an acting agency, start by researching which agencies. Prepare a professional package with a headshot, résumé, and reel, and follow each agency’s submission guidelines carefully.
📞 How do you get an agency for acting?
Getting an acting agency involves building credibility as a performer first. Many actors begin with community theater, student films, or commercials to create a reel and résumé. Once you have materials that showcase your abilities, submit them to beginner-friendly agencies or attend open calls where available.
Loading...
