A client called me yesterday because he had landed an interview at two very prominent talent agencies in Los Angeles, for their agent training programs.
And, since he knew that my rise through the talent agency ranks had been meteoric, from talent assistant to head of television in 30 days, with NO agency experience, he wanted to ask my advice on a few things. (The fact that no one returned my calls during my first year on the job is a whole other story!)
Towards the end of our conversation, the topic of wardrobe came up and he told me that he was going to wear khaki pants, a navy blazer, a white shirt with a red tie and nice shoes. Then he asked me what I thought...
I told him he needed to wear a suit.
His response was that he was going to wear khaki pants, a navy blazer and a really great red tie, and that he thought this was a really nice outfit. Again, I told him he needed to wear a suit.
This went on for four or five more minutes, back and forth, telling me how nice the khaki pants were; that they weren't chinos, but really nice pants, and would that be okay?
Once again, I told him that ... HE NEEDED TO WEAR A SUIT!
It wasn't until this afternoon that I wondered why he asked for my opinion in the first place, since all he really wanted me to do was agree that his outfit was okay for these interviews.
The only problem was that it was not okay. He needed to dress for the job he wanted (future talent agent), not the job he currently has (waiter).
I recently had the chance to catch one of my favorite movies on TV: Working Girl, with Sigourney Weaver and Melanie Griffith.
At one point in the movie, Sigourney's character makes this comment to Melanie's character: Dress shabbily, they notice the clothes. Dress impeccably, they notice you.
In order for my client to compete at the level he wants to compete at, he has to dress the part; and the agents at both of these agencies wear full suits - not khaki pants.
So what, exactly, is the point of this story?
I guess it's this:
There are a lot of people in this business who are more than willing to share their knowledge with you. However, if you have the good fortune to meet one of us, and you ask us for our opinion, or our help with something, then at least be willing to listen to what we have to say!
However, if the only thing you want is for us to agree with you on a particular issue, then please DON'T ask for our opinion. Or, if you do ask, please don't argue with whatever information we offer.
Honestly, it really doesn't matter to me what clothes my client wears to these interviews. He could wear jeans for all I care, because I'm not the one he needs to impress, and I'm not the one interviewing for the job. But, I'm also done offering my opinion more than one time, when asked, because it seems to go in one ear and out the other.
My grandmother once told me that you should never argue with a child because you're never going to win...
Grandma was right!
To Your Success,
Sharon
www.TheIndustryCoach.com
www.101TipsForActors.com
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Sunday, December 9, 2007
101 Tips for Actors
Hi Everyone!
After a very long incubation period, I wanted to let you know that I have finally finished my book, "101 Tips for Actors: Secrets for Success Every Actor Must Know," and it's now for sale.
The book is for all actors, from the novice to the professional, and is designed to give them insider secrets about this business, in order to help them move forward in their careers.
The website for the book is: www.101TipsForActors.com
I’m even offering FREE HOLIDAY SHIPPING to family and friends … as well as friends of friends! So, if you know anyone who is pursuing an acting career, regardless of their skill level, I would ask you to please forward this message on to them!
The SPECIAL HOLIDAY CODE to receive free shipping is: 121507 and is good on all orders placed by midnight on Saturday, December 15th.
Here's hoping that 2008 is your most prosperous year, yet!
Happy Holidays,
Sharon
www.TheIndustryCoach.com
After a very long incubation period, I wanted to let you know that I have finally finished my book, "101 Tips for Actors: Secrets for Success Every Actor Must Know," and it's now for sale.
The book is for all actors, from the novice to the professional, and is designed to give them insider secrets about this business, in order to help them move forward in their careers.
The website for the book is: www.101TipsForActors.com
I’m even offering FREE HOLIDAY SHIPPING to family and friends … as well as friends of friends! So, if you know anyone who is pursuing an acting career, regardless of their skill level, I would ask you to please forward this message on to them!
The SPECIAL HOLIDAY CODE to receive free shipping is: 121507 and is good on all orders placed by midnight on Saturday, December 15th.
Here's hoping that 2008 is your most prosperous year, yet!
Happy Holidays,
Sharon
www.TheIndustryCoach.com
Saturday, October 20, 2007
My Book is Done!
Just a quick note to let you know that my book, 101 Tips For Actors: Secrets for Success Every Actor Must Know, is finally done!
So mark your calendars for November 18th, because that is the official date of the book launch and you definitely WON'T want to miss it!
Inside 101 Tips for Actors, you'll learn:
- The Easiest Way to Get Your SAG Card
- The Best Time to Visit Your Agent
- What Happens When Your Agent Runs Out of Your Pictures
- Who the "Real" Hollywood Players are
- And much, much more!
After working as an actor and spending 5 years as an agent, I KNOW what it takes to be a successful actor, and now I'm ready to share it with you!
Don't forget: November 18th is the day when you, too, can find out all the insider secrets that will help you take your career to the next level!
101 TIPS FOR ACTORS: SECRETS FOR SUCCESS EVERY ACTOR MUST KNOW
I can't wait to share my secrets with YOU!
Sharon
So mark your calendars for November 18th, because that is the official date of the book launch and you definitely WON'T want to miss it!
Inside 101 Tips for Actors, you'll learn:
- The Easiest Way to Get Your SAG Card
- The Best Time to Visit Your Agent
- What Happens When Your Agent Runs Out of Your Pictures
- Who the "Real" Hollywood Players are
- And much, much more!
After working as an actor and spending 5 years as an agent, I KNOW what it takes to be a successful actor, and now I'm ready to share it with you!
Don't forget: November 18th is the day when you, too, can find out all the insider secrets that will help you take your career to the next level!
101 TIPS FOR ACTORS: SECRETS FOR SUCCESS EVERY ACTOR MUST KNOW
I can't wait to share my secrets with YOU!
Sharon
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Nicole Richie ... In & Out!
Just heard that Nicole is already out of jail ... Wow!
Okay, Girlfriend, now it's time for you to stay safe and stay sober because you've got a little one on the way and a new life ahead of you, providing you with the opportunity to make different (and better) choices!
Best Wishes,
Sharon
Okay, Girlfriend, now it's time for you to stay safe and stay sober because you've got a little one on the way and a new life ahead of you, providing you with the opportunity to make different (and better) choices!
Best Wishes,
Sharon
Nicole Richie in Jail!
E! Entertainment just announced the Nicole Richie turned herself into jail this afternoon (reporting to the same facility that Paris Hilton was in), ready to serve her 90 hour sentence.
Kudos to you, Nicole, for facing up to your mistakes, and for taking control of the situation and reporting early, instead of waiting until the last possible moment. The word on the street is that you may only be in jail for 12 hours, due to overcrowding, but I admire you for taking the bull by the horns and getting it over!
Be strong, girl - You're going to be fine!
Godspeed,
Sharon
Kudos to you, Nicole, for facing up to your mistakes, and for taking control of the situation and reporting early, instead of waiting until the last possible moment. The word on the street is that you may only be in jail for 12 hours, due to overcrowding, but I admire you for taking the bull by the horns and getting it over!
Be strong, girl - You're going to be fine!
Godspeed,
Sharon
Monday, August 13, 2007
Steven Spielberg "Transforms" Josh Duhamel
As The Industry Coach, I am constantly dealing with clients whose only goal is to become a huge movie star.
Personally, I have no problem with anyone who desires stardom on the big screen. That said, however, I do have a problem with any actor who snubs the small screen (i.e. Television) and only wants to go out on movie auditions.
The truth of the matter is that there are far more acting jobs available in television than there are in movies. Additionally, and maybe even more importantly, many of today's movie stars started on the small screen, before becoming the "stars" they are now, including: George Clooney, Michelle Williams, Paul Walker, Jason Biggs, Demi Moore, and Health Ledger, just to name a few.
Josh Duhamel is the latest actor to join the movie star ranks for one simple reason: Steven Spielberg saw him on an episode of Las Vegas (NBC) and pushed for him to join the cast of Transformers. It was that simple. Can you imagine?!
There's an old saying in Hollywood that goes like this: "There are no such thing as small parts, only small actors."
As an actor, it's important for you to give it everything you've got, no matter what the circumstances, because you just never know when Steven Spielberg might come knocking on your door, offering YOU the part of a lifetime!
Wishing You Success,
Sharon
Personally, I have no problem with anyone who desires stardom on the big screen. That said, however, I do have a problem with any actor who snubs the small screen (i.e. Television) and only wants to go out on movie auditions.
The truth of the matter is that there are far more acting jobs available in television than there are in movies. Additionally, and maybe even more importantly, many of today's movie stars started on the small screen, before becoming the "stars" they are now, including: George Clooney, Michelle Williams, Paul Walker, Jason Biggs, Demi Moore, and Health Ledger, just to name a few.
Josh Duhamel is the latest actor to join the movie star ranks for one simple reason: Steven Spielberg saw him on an episode of Las Vegas (NBC) and pushed for him to join the cast of Transformers. It was that simple. Can you imagine?!
There's an old saying in Hollywood that goes like this: "There are no such thing as small parts, only small actors."
As an actor, it's important for you to give it everything you've got, no matter what the circumstances, because you just never know when Steven Spielberg might come knocking on your door, offering YOU the part of a lifetime!
Wishing You Success,
Sharon
Friday, August 3, 2007
Six Degrees of Martina McBride
I have a confession to make. I've never been a huge fan of country music. My grandmother, however, loved it ... especially the "old" country songs about cowboys and horses, lost loves and broken hearts.
Then along came Faith Hill and Shania Twain and that's when everything changed for me, because even though their music was still "country" (at least to some people), it had enough pop to it, that I was able to enjoy it, too.
Now that I divide my time between California and Montana, my taste for country music is slowly growing, and I've since become a fan of Martina McBride, LeAnn Rimes, Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Vince Gill, and Rascal Flatts, just to name a few. So, the other night when ABC aired the TV special, "Six Degrees of Martina McBride," I was curious enough to sit down and watch the show. I've always loved the "Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon" Visa Commercial, so I knew this would be an interesting project.
So what does this have to do with working in the entertainment industry? EVERYTHING!
As The Industry Coach, I am forever telling (or reminding) my clients that in this business, or in any business for that matter, but especially in the entertainment industry, "it's not what you know ... it's WHO you know!" And the Martina McBride project is proof of how important the concept of networking really is.
If you didn't see the show, the premise was this: if six aspiring country singers, without any connections to Martina McBride, could actually find her and meet her in person, using their own connections with up to six other people, they would have the opportunity to win a recording contract with Martina's record label, Sony BMG.
Believe it or not, all six of them succeeded at this task; they all met Martina and one lucky woman really did win a recording contract. So who was this woman and who did she know? While I don't remember how her chain-of-command went, I will tell you this: her first phone call was to a man from whom she bought a pickup truck!
If she can do it, you can too, because the truth of the matter is this: We are all just 6 people away from achieving our dreams. However, most of us don't take the time to sit down and work through our address book, or, we're afraid to ask for help. Either way, unless we're willing to change our behavior and become fearless in the pursuit of our dreams, we will always be six degrees away from what we truly want.
In closing, I want to leave you with these thoughts:
1) What do you really want?
2) Who do you know who can help you get started?
3) Are you ready to go for it?
You can do it - I know you can!
Cheers,
Sharon
Then along came Faith Hill and Shania Twain and that's when everything changed for me, because even though their music was still "country" (at least to some people), it had enough pop to it, that I was able to enjoy it, too.
Now that I divide my time between California and Montana, my taste for country music is slowly growing, and I've since become a fan of Martina McBride, LeAnn Rimes, Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Vince Gill, and Rascal Flatts, just to name a few. So, the other night when ABC aired the TV special, "Six Degrees of Martina McBride," I was curious enough to sit down and watch the show. I've always loved the "Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon" Visa Commercial, so I knew this would be an interesting project.
So what does this have to do with working in the entertainment industry? EVERYTHING!
As The Industry Coach, I am forever telling (or reminding) my clients that in this business, or in any business for that matter, but especially in the entertainment industry, "it's not what you know ... it's WHO you know!" And the Martina McBride project is proof of how important the concept of networking really is.
If you didn't see the show, the premise was this: if six aspiring country singers, without any connections to Martina McBride, could actually find her and meet her in person, using their own connections with up to six other people, they would have the opportunity to win a recording contract with Martina's record label, Sony BMG.
Believe it or not, all six of them succeeded at this task; they all met Martina and one lucky woman really did win a recording contract. So who was this woman and who did she know? While I don't remember how her chain-of-command went, I will tell you this: her first phone call was to a man from whom she bought a pickup truck!
If she can do it, you can too, because the truth of the matter is this: We are all just 6 people away from achieving our dreams. However, most of us don't take the time to sit down and work through our address book, or, we're afraid to ask for help. Either way, unless we're willing to change our behavior and become fearless in the pursuit of our dreams, we will always be six degrees away from what we truly want.
In closing, I want to leave you with these thoughts:
1) What do you really want?
2) Who do you know who can help you get started?
3) Are you ready to go for it?
You can do it - I know you can!
Cheers,
Sharon
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Lindsay Lohan ... Arrested Again!
When I read a story about Lindsay Lohan being arrested this morning, I was confused. I thought she turned herself in 3 days ago and was released on bail. I didn't realize that today's incident was brand new.
The problem is now that she's 21, she's an adult and is completely responsible for her own life. Her parents can't intervene because they have no legal jurisdiction over her. Her lawyer, manager, agent and publicist can't do much, and what they can do (i.e. drop her as a client), would probably do more harm than good. So who's left?
According to her attorney, she's "safe" and back in rehab. Well, we all know how that's worked out for her in the past, don't we!
I don't mean to be rude here, but something has got to give or she's going to end up dead, just like Anna Nicole Smith. Her continuous partying is a huge cry for help that no one seems to be paying attention to, because they're too busy riding on the coattails of her celebrity.
Will someone please, PLEASE, step up to the plate and help this young woman, before it's too late?
I realize that "you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink," and that she has to want to help herself get better. But if her family and those people on her management team don't do something and figure out a way to help her RIGHT NOW, eventually they won't have to worry about her at all, because she will no longer be a client. Instead, Lindsay Lohan will just be another statistic: one more young Hollywood star whose life was cut short because of drugs and alcohol, joining the ranks of River Phoenix and John Belushi, among others.
Please don't let that happen. If anyone reading this is someone who actually has the ability to do something, and help Lindsay, then please do it now because everyone's life has value, including yours, and you just never know when you might need someone to return the favor to you.
We're all in this together, and together we can make a difference.
Sharon
The problem is now that she's 21, she's an adult and is completely responsible for her own life. Her parents can't intervene because they have no legal jurisdiction over her. Her lawyer, manager, agent and publicist can't do much, and what they can do (i.e. drop her as a client), would probably do more harm than good. So who's left?
According to her attorney, she's "safe" and back in rehab. Well, we all know how that's worked out for her in the past, don't we!
I don't mean to be rude here, but something has got to give or she's going to end up dead, just like Anna Nicole Smith. Her continuous partying is a huge cry for help that no one seems to be paying attention to, because they're too busy riding on the coattails of her celebrity.
Will someone please, PLEASE, step up to the plate and help this young woman, before it's too late?
I realize that "you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink," and that she has to want to help herself get better. But if her family and those people on her management team don't do something and figure out a way to help her RIGHT NOW, eventually they won't have to worry about her at all, because she will no longer be a client. Instead, Lindsay Lohan will just be another statistic: one more young Hollywood star whose life was cut short because of drugs and alcohol, joining the ranks of River Phoenix and John Belushi, among others.
Please don't let that happen. If anyone reading this is someone who actually has the ability to do something, and help Lindsay, then please do it now because everyone's life has value, including yours, and you just never know when you might need someone to return the favor to you.
We're all in this together, and together we can make a difference.
Sharon
Friday, July 6, 2007
Letter to Isaiah Washington ...
Dear Isaiah,
There are two sides to every story and then there’s the truth. And, when it comes to the situation with Grey’s Anatomy, none of us are every going to know what really happened that day … No matter how many people you talk to!
There’s no question that you’re angry about being released from the show. That’s obvious by the fact that no matter which way I turn, there you are, speaking with everyone and anyone who will listen, trying to tell them your side of the story. And while I’m sure that anyone in your shoes would feel the same way you do right now, nothing is going to change the situation. At this point in time, the only thing that can change is you and your attitude.
The time has come for you to STOP TALKING! Life is unfair and sometimes stuff happens over which we have no control. However, the more you keep talking, the deeper the hole you dig, because now you just look like someone who’s difficult to work with; someone who causes trouble, has anger management issues, and is a potential liability on any project.
And, while I don’t know who your “team” is and how they’re advising you right now, if you were my client, the first piece of advice I would give you is to LET IT GO.
It’s time for you to salvage what’s left of your dignity and your career and move on. Go on vacation and take some time to figure out what your next move is. Re-evaluate your team (i.e. agent, manager, publicist, etc.) and decide it they have your best interest at heart, or if it’s time to explore putting together a new team. Forgive your fellow cast members and remember that they weren’t the ones who fired you. Forgive yourself for your error in judgment. It happened and you can’t undo it, so get over it and get on with your life.
The decision is yours to make, so make this one count.
Sharon
There are two sides to every story and then there’s the truth. And, when it comes to the situation with Grey’s Anatomy, none of us are every going to know what really happened that day … No matter how many people you talk to!
There’s no question that you’re angry about being released from the show. That’s obvious by the fact that no matter which way I turn, there you are, speaking with everyone and anyone who will listen, trying to tell them your side of the story. And while I’m sure that anyone in your shoes would feel the same way you do right now, nothing is going to change the situation. At this point in time, the only thing that can change is you and your attitude.
The time has come for you to STOP TALKING! Life is unfair and sometimes stuff happens over which we have no control. However, the more you keep talking, the deeper the hole you dig, because now you just look like someone who’s difficult to work with; someone who causes trouble, has anger management issues, and is a potential liability on any project.
And, while I don’t know who your “team” is and how they’re advising you right now, if you were my client, the first piece of advice I would give you is to LET IT GO.
It’s time for you to salvage what’s left of your dignity and your career and move on. Go on vacation and take some time to figure out what your next move is. Re-evaluate your team (i.e. agent, manager, publicist, etc.) and decide it they have your best interest at heart, or if it’s time to explore putting together a new team. Forgive your fellow cast members and remember that they weren’t the ones who fired you. Forgive yourself for your error in judgment. It happened and you can’t undo it, so get over it and get on with your life.
The decision is yours to make, so make this one count.
Sharon
Friday, June 22, 2007
Paris and Lindsay Go Home...
In the next few days, Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan are scheduled to be released from their respective locations (jail and rehab). So what happens now?
As a life coach who works with both celebrities and non-celebrities alike, my recommendation to each of these girls would be this:
1) Go home and get settled
2) Start changing your routine
3) Find a trusted advisor and decide what your next step is
4) Lay low - only making one or two public appearances a week
5) Decide and then commit to start making better decisions
6) Take it one day at a time
If you ever wanted the chance to "start your life over," you have the opportunity to do so right now. It's not often that people get the chance to start fresh, but you have been given this gift. What you now choose to do with it is up to you.
Good luck and Godspeed,
Sharon
As a life coach who works with both celebrities and non-celebrities alike, my recommendation to each of these girls would be this:
1) Go home and get settled
2) Start changing your routine
3) Find a trusted advisor and decide what your next step is
4) Lay low - only making one or two public appearances a week
5) Decide and then commit to start making better decisions
6) Take it one day at a time
If you ever wanted the chance to "start your life over," you have the opportunity to do so right now. It's not often that people get the chance to start fresh, but you have been given this gift. What you now choose to do with it is up to you.
Good luck and Godspeed,
Sharon
Friday, June 15, 2007
Kudos to Barbara Walters and Paris Hilton
Well, it's about time!
After thousands upon thousands of interviews, Barbara Walters has finally earned her place in Hollywood. Yesterday, she was awarded the 2,340 star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (which also happened to be my parents 38th wedding anniversary. Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad ... I love you!).
I also want to congratulate Paris Hilton on surviving 13 days in jail. I know it hasn't been easy on you, or your family, and I know that your jail sentence has caused a huge uproar throughout the entertainment industry. That said, however, you are now accepting responsibility for your choices and facing your jail sentence with more courage than any of those who ridicule you may ever possess in their lifetime. You should be proud of yourself, because you are stronger than you probably ever thought you were and no one can take that away from you. You go, girl!
Congratulations to all of you on a job well done!
Honoring Your Success,
Sharon
After thousands upon thousands of interviews, Barbara Walters has finally earned her place in Hollywood. Yesterday, she was awarded the 2,340 star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (which also happened to be my parents 38th wedding anniversary. Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad ... I love you!).
I also want to congratulate Paris Hilton on surviving 13 days in jail. I know it hasn't been easy on you, or your family, and I know that your jail sentence has caused a huge uproar throughout the entertainment industry. That said, however, you are now accepting responsibility for your choices and facing your jail sentence with more courage than any of those who ridicule you may ever possess in their lifetime. You should be proud of yourself, because you are stronger than you probably ever thought you were and no one can take that away from you. You go, girl!
Congratulations to all of you on a job well done!
Honoring Your Success,
Sharon
Friday, June 8, 2007
Your Acting Career
The first time one of my acting clients told me that she doesn't watch TV, I almost fell out of my chair!
We'd been working together for about 4 months, planning strategies for her career, and I (obviously) made the mistake of assuming that she watched television, especially since she told me that she wanted to land a series regular gig on a particular show on ABC. When she told me that even though she wanted to land a job on "show X," she didn't watch that show on a regular basis, I almost dropped her as a client. All I kept thinking was "How can you not watch it?"
After that conversation, I really had to wonder how much she wanted to be an actor and how dedicated she was to her acting career. Or, was she just talking a good game? It was only at that time when I discovered how many of my other clients were in the same boat.
As The Industry Coach and President of the Actors Resource Center, one of the things I do is work with actors to help them move forward in their careers. My clients have included those just starting out in the business, as well as those on Hollywood's A-List, and the truth of the matter is this: no matter where you are in your career, if you really want to be successful you need to walk the walk, not just talk the talk.
If you want to be a television actor, you need to watch television. If you want to do movies, you need to watch movies. And, if you want to do theatre (and every actor should do theatre at some point in their career - it will help them with their craft), then you need to go to the theatre and read plays on a regular basis.
Today is a new day ... What are YOU going to do for your career?
Cheers,
Sharon
We'd been working together for about 4 months, planning strategies for her career, and I (obviously) made the mistake of assuming that she watched television, especially since she told me that she wanted to land a series regular gig on a particular show on ABC. When she told me that even though she wanted to land a job on "show X," she didn't watch that show on a regular basis, I almost dropped her as a client. All I kept thinking was "How can you not watch it?"
After that conversation, I really had to wonder how much she wanted to be an actor and how dedicated she was to her acting career. Or, was she just talking a good game? It was only at that time when I discovered how many of my other clients were in the same boat.
As The Industry Coach and President of the Actors Resource Center, one of the things I do is work with actors to help them move forward in their careers. My clients have included those just starting out in the business, as well as those on Hollywood's A-List, and the truth of the matter is this: no matter where you are in your career, if you really want to be successful you need to walk the walk, not just talk the talk.
If you want to be a television actor, you need to watch television. If you want to do movies, you need to watch movies. And, if you want to do theatre (and every actor should do theatre at some point in their career - it will help them with their craft), then you need to go to the theatre and read plays on a regular basis.
Today is a new day ... What are YOU going to do for your career?
Cheers,
Sharon
Monday, June 4, 2007
Thank You, Lifetime TV!
Attention Lifetime Executives ...
Last night I watched your new series, Army Wives. What a treat! Thank you so much for giving those of us over 35 something else to watch besides Desperate Housewives!
Don't get me wrong, I have clients on Desperate Housewives, and I watch that show, too. But the time has definitely come for the industry to start catering to its older female audience (i.e. the ones with the discretionary income who can afford the latest Gucci bag, or Manolo Blahnik shoes, WITHOUT going into debt), and Army Wives definitely fits into that category!
Here's wishing you much success with the new show ... I can't wait to see the next episode!
Grazie,
Sharon
P.S. I loved Write and Wrong, as well! It was great to see Kirstie Alley back on television ...
Last night I watched your new series, Army Wives. What a treat! Thank you so much for giving those of us over 35 something else to watch besides Desperate Housewives!
Don't get me wrong, I have clients on Desperate Housewives, and I watch that show, too. But the time has definitely come for the industry to start catering to its older female audience (i.e. the ones with the discretionary income who can afford the latest Gucci bag, or Manolo Blahnik shoes, WITHOUT going into debt), and Army Wives definitely fits into that category!
Here's wishing you much success with the new show ... I can't wait to see the next episode!
Grazie,
Sharon
P.S. I loved Write and Wrong, as well! It was great to see Kirstie Alley back on television ...
Friday, June 1, 2007
The Next Julia Roberts ...
Several years ago, whenever a young actress stood out in a movie role, she was almost always labeled as "The Next Julia Roberts." However, as we all know, there's only one Julia Roberts (although her adorable niece, Emma Roberts, is certainly garnering her fair share of attention these days).
There's also only one Sandra Bullock, one Cate Blanchett, one Renee Zellweger, and one Nicole Kidman. The question that keeps arising for me, however, is this one: "Who's next?"
Let's face it, sometimes it's hard to get older. At least it is for me. And it's even harder when I see my peers getting older, as well. For some reason, that's when it really sinks in: there will always be another generation behind us, waiting for their turn at the top.
And when it comes to the next generation of actresses, the challenge, as I see it, is that there seem to be very few women poised to begin taking the roles that Julia, Sandra, Cate, Renee, and Nicole are stepping out of or moving away from. So while these women (definitely women - not girls), are busy moving on to the next phase of their careers, who exactly is taking their place?
Sure, there's a couple of names that come to mind: Kate Winslet & Reese Witherspoon among them. But who else is out there? Who are those young women making up the next generation? And what are they doing to make a name for themselves?
When Meryl Streep, Kathy Bates and Glenn Close moved forward in their careers, the natural transition seemed to happen automatically with Julia, Sandra, Cate, et al. stepping into those roles. Unfortunately, that doesn't seem to be happening between them and the generation after them.
And when you read about the next, next generation (think Lindsay Lohan), it would appear that the door is really wide open. Sure, there's a few standouts (think Scarlett Johannson and Keira Knightly), and there's a long list of those with potential (including Lindsay), but I'm scared for this generation because no one appears to really be stepping up and standing out.
I'm not sure what has happened that has caused this new generation of young people to appear so lost. Has the business changed that much? Or, do these young actors just have too much time and money on their hands, and too little support from those people on their "business" teams? Either way, something needs to change.
What exactly that change looks like can be open to interpretation. For me, however, it involves two things: (1) This generation of actors accepting full responsibility for their lives and their careers, and (2) All of the agents, managers, lawyers et al., who represent these young actors, having the best interest of their clients at heart, instead of the best interest of their wallets.
Working together, I truly believe that we can help these young people step into their greatness and fulfill their potential, while succeeding in their lives and their careers at the same time.
Ciao,
Sharon
There's also only one Sandra Bullock, one Cate Blanchett, one Renee Zellweger, and one Nicole Kidman. The question that keeps arising for me, however, is this one: "Who's next?"
Let's face it, sometimes it's hard to get older. At least it is for me. And it's even harder when I see my peers getting older, as well. For some reason, that's when it really sinks in: there will always be another generation behind us, waiting for their turn at the top.
And when it comes to the next generation of actresses, the challenge, as I see it, is that there seem to be very few women poised to begin taking the roles that Julia, Sandra, Cate, Renee, and Nicole are stepping out of or moving away from. So while these women (definitely women - not girls), are busy moving on to the next phase of their careers, who exactly is taking their place?
Sure, there's a couple of names that come to mind: Kate Winslet & Reese Witherspoon among them. But who else is out there? Who are those young women making up the next generation? And what are they doing to make a name for themselves?
When Meryl Streep, Kathy Bates and Glenn Close moved forward in their careers, the natural transition seemed to happen automatically with Julia, Sandra, Cate, et al. stepping into those roles. Unfortunately, that doesn't seem to be happening between them and the generation after them.
And when you read about the next, next generation (think Lindsay Lohan), it would appear that the door is really wide open. Sure, there's a few standouts (think Scarlett Johannson and Keira Knightly), and there's a long list of those with potential (including Lindsay), but I'm scared for this generation because no one appears to really be stepping up and standing out.
I'm not sure what has happened that has caused this new generation of young people to appear so lost. Has the business changed that much? Or, do these young actors just have too much time and money on their hands, and too little support from those people on their "business" teams? Either way, something needs to change.
What exactly that change looks like can be open to interpretation. For me, however, it involves two things: (1) This generation of actors accepting full responsibility for their lives and their careers, and (2) All of the agents, managers, lawyers et al., who represent these young actors, having the best interest of their clients at heart, instead of the best interest of their wallets.
Working together, I truly believe that we can help these young people step into their greatness and fulfill their potential, while succeeding in their lives and their careers at the same time.
Ciao,
Sharon
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Letter to Lindsay Lohan ...
Dear Lindsay,
I just read about your suspected DUI arrest yesterday and I hope that you're out of the hospital and feeling better soon.
Being famous is not easy, especially at your age when every single move you make is chronicled by the press and the rest of the world, because it seemingly leaves you no room to grow up and make the kind of mistakes everyone else your age is making without paparazzi coverage. That's a hard place to be and a hard thing to deal with - especially on a daily basis.
I know that things with your father are strained and that your mother is your best friend, but right now, at this difficult time in your life, you need two things: (1) a mother who is a parent first and best friend second, and (2) a safe place (whether it's rehab or somewhere else) to get away from the craziness of Hollywood and the entertainment industry, and spend some time finding your footing and getting grounded. And while I realize that the idea of taking time off from the business for a few months (I would recommend at least 4 months, preferably 6), is probably extremely scary to you, I also know that no one is going to forget about you in that short period of time. In fact, they will probably respect you more because of it.
Life is too short to be messing around with drugs and alcohol, especially in this business. And while it may be getting you great press coverage, it's certainly not doing anything for your career. The worse your behavior gets, the less people are going to want to work with you because the truth of the matter is this: the entertainment industry is a business first and foremost; a business about making money. If you're not able to work, or if you start causing production delays because of your behavior, you're costing people money and the more money you cost them, the less they are going to want to hire you. Is that what you really want? Or, do you really want to win an Oscar, which is what you keep saying? You can't have it both ways.
I understand how hard this business is and how scary it can be when you don't know where to turn or whom to trust, but let me tell you, there really are people out there who are willing and who want to help you through this difficult time in your life. I say this because I'm one of them and I would absolutely love to see you live up to your full potential as an actor and a human being. What a great example you could set for the hundreds of thousands of preteen and teenage girls who look up to you and who want to be just like you, especially your little sister, because I'm willing to bet that you don't want her to travel down the same road you're traveling down right now.
I'm 100% certain that if you can find a safe place to go and safe people to work with and to trust while you try to get your feet back on the ground, you can completely turn your life around and start walking down that "Oscar" road.
I believe in you,
Sharon
www.TheIndustryCoach.com
www.ActorsResourceCenter.com
I just read about your suspected DUI arrest yesterday and I hope that you're out of the hospital and feeling better soon.
Being famous is not easy, especially at your age when every single move you make is chronicled by the press and the rest of the world, because it seemingly leaves you no room to grow up and make the kind of mistakes everyone else your age is making without paparazzi coverage. That's a hard place to be and a hard thing to deal with - especially on a daily basis.
I know that things with your father are strained and that your mother is your best friend, but right now, at this difficult time in your life, you need two things: (1) a mother who is a parent first and best friend second, and (2) a safe place (whether it's rehab or somewhere else) to get away from the craziness of Hollywood and the entertainment industry, and spend some time finding your footing and getting grounded. And while I realize that the idea of taking time off from the business for a few months (I would recommend at least 4 months, preferably 6), is probably extremely scary to you, I also know that no one is going to forget about you in that short period of time. In fact, they will probably respect you more because of it.
Life is too short to be messing around with drugs and alcohol, especially in this business. And while it may be getting you great press coverage, it's certainly not doing anything for your career. The worse your behavior gets, the less people are going to want to work with you because the truth of the matter is this: the entertainment industry is a business first and foremost; a business about making money. If you're not able to work, or if you start causing production delays because of your behavior, you're costing people money and the more money you cost them, the less they are going to want to hire you. Is that what you really want? Or, do you really want to win an Oscar, which is what you keep saying? You can't have it both ways.
I understand how hard this business is and how scary it can be when you don't know where to turn or whom to trust, but let me tell you, there really are people out there who are willing and who want to help you through this difficult time in your life. I say this because I'm one of them and I would absolutely love to see you live up to your full potential as an actor and a human being. What a great example you could set for the hundreds of thousands of preteen and teenage girls who look up to you and who want to be just like you, especially your little sister, because I'm willing to bet that you don't want her to travel down the same road you're traveling down right now.
I'm 100% certain that if you can find a safe place to go and safe people to work with and to trust while you try to get your feet back on the ground, you can completely turn your life around and start walking down that "Oscar" road.
I believe in you,
Sharon
www.TheIndustryCoach.com
www.ActorsResourceCenter.com
Friday, May 25, 2007
Surprise, Surprise ... Rosie Leaves "The View!"
Well, it's official ...
Not only is Rosie O'Donnell leaving "The View," she's decided to leave the show as of TODAY! Gee, what a surprise! Whether you love her or you hate her, it seems that no matter where Rosie goes, controversy seems to follow ... Of course, Donald Trump must be having a field day with this one!
Then we have Jessica Biel, who mentions in a magazine interview that she's not being offered the roles she'd like, such as "Girl with a Pearl Earring" (that went to Scarlett Johansson). As The Industry Coach®, I can certainly empathize with her plight. Many of my clients feel the exact same way that she does, and I would offer her the same advice I offer them: Instead of taking roles in movies like "Summer Catch" and "Stealth," tell your agent to start going after those small roles that will enable Hollywood to start viewing you in a different light.
The same holds true for Lindsay Lohan, who says she wants to win an Oscar. Although I haven't seen "Georgia" yet, I would offer you this one piece of advice: Yes, you may only be 20 (going on 21), and still need to have fun and enjoy your youth. However, until you start taking yourself seriously, the rest of Hollywood isn't going to, either. You can still be young and have fun, but if you really want to be taken seriously as an actress, then it's time for you to start making different choices.
And, one last word of advice to Paris Hilton regarding your jail sentence. I have no doubt that you're scared about going to jail. That's completely understandable. However, I would also bet that you are probably a lot stronger and tougher than you (or anyone else for that matter) give yourself credit for. Now it's time for you to show the world what you're really made of! You can do it ... I know you can!
Ciao,
Sharon
www.TheIndustryCoach.com
Not only is Rosie O'Donnell leaving "The View," she's decided to leave the show as of TODAY! Gee, what a surprise! Whether you love her or you hate her, it seems that no matter where Rosie goes, controversy seems to follow ... Of course, Donald Trump must be having a field day with this one!
Then we have Jessica Biel, who mentions in a magazine interview that she's not being offered the roles she'd like, such as "Girl with a Pearl Earring" (that went to Scarlett Johansson). As The Industry Coach®, I can certainly empathize with her plight. Many of my clients feel the exact same way that she does, and I would offer her the same advice I offer them: Instead of taking roles in movies like "Summer Catch" and "Stealth," tell your agent to start going after those small roles that will enable Hollywood to start viewing you in a different light.
The same holds true for Lindsay Lohan, who says she wants to win an Oscar. Although I haven't seen "Georgia" yet, I would offer you this one piece of advice: Yes, you may only be 20 (going on 21), and still need to have fun and enjoy your youth. However, until you start taking yourself seriously, the rest of Hollywood isn't going to, either. You can still be young and have fun, but if you really want to be taken seriously as an actress, then it's time for you to start making different choices.
And, one last word of advice to Paris Hilton regarding your jail sentence. I have no doubt that you're scared about going to jail. That's completely understandable. However, I would also bet that you are probably a lot stronger and tougher than you (or anyone else for that matter) give yourself credit for. Now it's time for you to show the world what you're really made of! You can do it ... I know you can!
Ciao,
Sharon
www.TheIndustryCoach.com
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