Red Flags in Representation: When It’s Time to Leave Your Agent

Stage Notes
Aug 11
2 min read

In this guide, we’re talking about the red flags that should make you grab your metaphorical suitcase and exit stage left.

Agent Red Flags

A great agent is your teammate, your champion, and sometimes your unofficial career therapist (the good kind). But here’s the harsh truth: not every agent is a good fit, and some are downright toxic for your career.

Actors often stay with the wrong representation far too long because they don’t want to “burn bridges” or they’re scared to be without an agent. But bad representation is worse than no representation — because a bad rep doesn’t just fail to open doors… they might actually be closing them.

Why Is The Right Agent So Important?

In the acting world, your name and reputation are your currency. If your agent mishandles submissions, ignores opportunities, or doesn’t communicate professionally, it’s your career that suffers — not theirs.

And because this industry runs on relationships, a bad agent can quietly hurt your chances without you even knowing. By recognizing the warning signs early, you protect your career momentum, your reputation, and your sanity.

If you spot these red flags in your agent... maybe it's time to give them the magic boot out the theater.

1. They Ask for Upfront Fees

Legit agents earn commission after you book work — never before. If they’re charging for “representation packages,” “mandatory photography,” or “exclusive workshops,” run.

2. They Don’t Submit You Consistently

If months go by without a single audition — and you’ve checked that there are indeed roles out there for your type — something’s off.

3. They Never Communicate

A good agent should respond to your questions within a reasonable timeframe and keep you updated on submissions. Silence isn’t golden here — it’s suspicious.

4. They Pressure You Into Roles That Don’t Fit

Being sent for roles way outside your type, values, or boundaries (especially without your consent) is a red flag for disrespect and poor career strategy.

5. They Have a Bad Industry Reputation

Sometimes the problem isn’t you — it’s them. If casting directors avoid working with your agent, you’ll feel it in your audition volume.

6. They Treat You Like You’re Replaceable

A healthy agent-actor relationship has mutual respect. If they’re dismissive, condescending, or act like you should be “grateful” for scraps, that’s not partnership — that’s exploitation.

Conclusion

If you see one or more of these red flags, it’s time to seriously consider your options. You’re allowed to leave a relationship that isn’t serving your career — and you can do it professionally, without burning every bridge in sight.

Next steps:

Audit your representation — how often are you getting auditions? How responsive are they?
Start quietly researching and networking with other agents.
Review your contract for termination clauses so you exit cleanly.

Remember: you’re not “lucky” to have representation — you’re a business partner. And a business partner who isn’t pulling their weight? Replaceable.