April 12, 2006

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox today is warning parents not to fall victim to model and talent search agencies who promise to make your children stars – but not until you spend hundreds of dollars first. 

Talent Agencies like Aquarian Associates of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, promise the opportunity to meet film directors, producers, model agents, and ad agencies at various "free" events – in the case of Aquarian Associates at the "Great American Model Search." After the event, parents complain that nothing happens at the "free evaluation" because the true evaluation (attended by casting agents and other talent scouts) only takes place in Pittsburgh.  That event, the Great American Model Search, costs at least $525 to attend plus lodging, transportation, and other costs.

            “As parents, we wish nothing more than success for our children,” said Cox.  "Talent agencies that charge hundreds of dollars to post your child's picture on a Web site are only doing a disservice to both you and your children.  If you get a postcard announcing an open call for model and talent search and you plan to attend, do some research first.  In the case of Aquarian Associates, a simple Internet search will reveal a New York State Consumer Protection Board warning, as well as complaints by parents who felt they were misled, and critical news articles.”

In a consumer alert entitled, “Talent Scouting Services,” the Attorney General provides several tips to consider before signing on any dotted line with a talent agent:

1.                  Research a company's background and compare it with other talent scouting agencies before signing on any dotted lines or shelling out hard-earned cash.

2.                  Never pay large up-front fees.  Legitimate talent and modeling agencies will not take money from you until they find your children a modeling job.  Scam companies will charge you a lot of money to place your photographs on a Web site.  Obtain a detailed explanation of what any money you do pay will be used for.

3.                  Most legitimate agencies do not advertise in newspapers, solicit through the mail, or "scout" for talent in malls and other public places.  There are genuine companies that offer workshops in a classroom setting, during which traditional acting instruction is offered, with no promise of work as an enticement to open your wallet.

4.                  Your child does not need a large and expensive photo package or Web site to become a model.  Companies that hire models only need one good photo to judge your child's appearance.  It's better to get one good photo and mail it to many agencies instead of spending a lot of money at just one company.

5.                  Make sure to get your agreement in writing.  Even if an agreement is reached verbally, get it in writing before agreeing to any terms.

If you think you have been the victim of a modeling or talent scam, contact the Michigan

Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division at:

Department of Attorney General 
Consumer Protection Division
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
www.michigan.gov/ag
517 373-1140
877-765-8388 (toll free) 

Consumers interested in receiving electronic mail notification of Attorney General Consumer Alerts can sign up on the Attorney General's home page (www.michigan.gov/ag) by accessing the "Join the AG Mailing List" icon.  Consumers may also elect to receive electronic notices of press releases and formal opinions. 

For more information, contact Rusty Hills or Nate Bailey, Attorney General's Office, at (517) 373-8060.

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