Finding the right talent agency can be a game-changer if you're an actor looking to take your career to the next level. An acting agent can help you open new doors, secure more auditions and negotiate contracts. Just remember, before you can start firing off applications you'll need a professional headshot, a well crafted and up-to-date CV, and a killer showreel to demonstrate your acting prowess.
The best London acting agencies have a vast network of industry contacts, allowing them to match their clients with the roles that align best with their abilities and career goals. In this guide we cover the top acting agents in London that can help you get discovered, land more gigs, and advance your acting career.
Contents
- Curtis Brown
- Conway van Gelder Grant (CVGG)
- Hamilton Hodell
- United Agents
- Independent Talent Group
- Markham, Froggatt & Irwin
- Tavistock Wood
- The Artists Partnership
- The B-Side Management
1. Curtis Brown
Overview:
This London talent agency was founded in 1899 as a literary agent by Albert Curtis Brown, and since then has become home to many other world class divisions including one of the UK's most prestigious acting agencies.
Curtis Brown was acquired by global agency United Talent (UTA) in 2022, so with these international connections, agents can provide clients with overseas support and opportunities as well.
Who they represent:
High profile clients include Dev Patel, Nicola Coughlin, Robert Pattinson, and Kaya Scodelario.
How to apply for representation:
Send through your headshot, CV and a link to a showreel (or recent work) to actorsagents@curtisbrown.co.uk.
If you are approaching an individual agent, please state their name clearly in your subject line. For a general submission, simply mark your email for the attention of ‘all agents’.
2. Conway van Gelder Grant (CVGG)
Overview:
CVGG is located in the heart of Soho and with over half a century in the business, it's known for its great contacts in the film industry. While other London talent agencies represent a full range of performers from musicians to speakers, CVGG agents specialise in acting and pride themselves on providing high-caliber career guidance.
Who they represent:
High profile clients include Benedict Cumberbatch, Helena Bonham Carter and Callum Woodhouse (All Creatures Great and Small).
How to apply for representation:
Send your headshot, CV, showreel and a short covering letter via email, directly to the agent you are interested in working with. A list of the agents' email addresses can be found under the website's 'About Us' section.
3. Hamilton Hodell
Overview:
This renowned agency makes no secret of its pursuit of exceptional talent backed by an impressive track record by launching the careers of numerous rising stars. Securing representation from this industry leading acting firm could open doors in the UK and beyond.
Who they represent:
High profile clients include Emilia Clarke, Tom Hiddleston and Leo Woodall (One Day).
How to apply for representation:
Send your headshot, CV, covering letter and showreel via email to representation@hamiltonhodell.co.uk. Please mark your submission for the attention of an individual agent, by clearly stating their name in the subject line and covering letter.
4. United Agents
Overview:
United Agents was established in 2007 following a merger of several established agencies. This brought together a wealth of experience and a diverse client roster, establishing United Agents as a powerhouse in the talent representation industry. United Agents covers a wide array of creative fields, making it a comprehensive agency for talent across the entertainment industry.
Who they represent:
United Agents represent a mix of seasoned actors and new talent. High profile clients include Kate Winslet, Ricky Gervais and Keira Knightley.
How to apply for representation:
Send your submission via email directly to the agent you are interested in working with. A list of actors agents and their contact details can be found here.
5. Independent Talent Group
Overview:
ITG not only represents actors but is a full-service agency, managing directors, writers, producers and casting directors. This means ITG has a large influence across the entertainment industry and can help to make introductions with important decision makers.
Who they represent:
High profile clients include David Tennant, Felicity Jones and Sophie Turner.
How to apply for representation:
Send your headshot, CV, cover letter, and showreel (or recent work) via email to actingrepresentation@independenttalent.com. Please make it clear whether your submission is for the attention of all agents or an individual agent.
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6. Markham, Froggatt & Irwin
Overview:
This London acting agency is owned by experienced senior talent agent Alex Irwin. In 2020 she negotiated a merger with Curtis Brown Group to expand the opportunities for her clients.
The agency has a diverse range of acting clients and a good reputation for nurturing new talent.
Who they represent:
High profile clients include Jessica Gunning (Baby Reindeer), Damian Lewis, Theo James and Rachel Griffiths.
How to apply for representation:
Send your headshot, CV and a link to a showreel (or recent work) via email to admin@markhamfroggattirwin.com.
7. Tavistock Wood
Overview:
Tavistock Wood is another well-renowned London acting agency that joined the Curtis Brown Group in 2018. They pride themselves on retaining their boutique identity and client focus while combing resources and infrastructure with the larger group.
Who they represent:
High profile clients include Lily James, Elizabeth McGovern and Dominic West.
How to apply for representation:
Send your headshot, CV, and cover letter to the offices (Tavistock Wood, 15 Regent Street, London SW1Y 4LR) or via email to info@tavistockwood.com.
8. The Artists Partnership
Overview:
With its small team of under 20 agents, TAP is renowned for delivering highly personalised service. The agency represents a diverse array of talent, from actors to acclaimed writers, directors and social media influencers. By offering a "full service environment," TAP helps actors, establish and maintain long-lasting, successful careers.
Additionally, the agency has a dedicated voice division called Be Heard Voices, with some actors represented by both the main agency and the voice division.
Who they represent:
The agency proves its commitment to taking on new talent by attending drama school and university graduation shows.
High profile clients include Emily Blunt, Idris Elba and Ambika Mod (One Day).
How to apply for representation:
Send your headshot, CV, cover letter and a link to any Spotlight Pin or online showreel via email to representation@theartistspartnership.co.uk.
If you are approaching a specific agent, please state their name clearly within the subject line. For a general submission, please put ‘FAO All Agents’ and what kind of representation you’re seeking in the subject line. Please do not send the same email to each agent individually.
9. The B-Side Management
Overview:
The team at B-Side provides personalised management services to actors, collaborating closely with their production company, B-Side Production. B-Side Production focuses on developing film and TV projects that showcase emerging talent and underrepresented voices.
Who they represent:
High profile clients include Alan Cumming, Daniel Kaluuya and Matt Smith.
How to apply for representation
Send your CV and a link to a showreel via email to hello@theb-side.co.uk.
That's a wrap
For any actor serious about making it in this highly competitive field, signing with the right agency can be a game-changer. By leveraging their resources and industry connections, London acting agencies are instrumental in nurturing and elevating the careers of the actors they represent, opening doors that may have otherwise remained closed.
Finding the right acting agent can take time, so don't give up if it doesn't happen right away. This journey requires patience and perseverance because, unfortunately, due to the large quantity of submissions agencies receive, they generally can't respond personally to every applicant. But don't worry, agencies will review every application they receive, and if they are interested in having a meeting, they will contact you.
If you are looking to build out your acting CV, you could try filmmaking courses at London's 10 best film schools, or submit your own film to top UK film festivals.
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