Dear Addison,

A client of mine sent me an email today, which was the inspiration for my blog.  This client has been in the business many years, and I found it interesting that this particular subject had never been explained to her before.  I thought that if this veteran actress did not know the answer, there must be other actors who don’t know either…

Question:

Any word at all on whether my (blank) spot is going to run?

Answer:

The way you find out whether or not your spot is going to run is by contacting the ad agency.  In general ad agencies are more open to answering such questions when they come from the actor, or the guardian of the actor, as opposed to a talent agent.  The same holds true when requesting copies of commercials and/or voice-overs. 

I have my own theories as to why ad agencies are more receptive to actors as opposed to agents.  Agents are your liaison between the ad agency, the production company, etc.  It is our job to play hardball, not yours.  When you reach out to them, they are less likely to be concerned that there is going to be a conflict, and are therefore more likely to help you complete your task.  They also feel better about themselves as they have done a personal favor for you. 

The easiest way to locate the ad agency is to check your call sheet.  It is best when you shoot a commercial to keep a copy of your call sheet, as this will prove to be an infinitely useful tool.  Alternatively, you can find the name of the ad agency on your pay stub. 

Contact the ad agency and ask for Broadcast Services, the Traffic Division, or whoever is responsible for purchasing time.  In most cases you will be directed to the appropriate party. 

Once you reach that person ask them what their media buy is, and if they have not purchased, do they intend to purchase?  Airtime is usually purchased a few months in advance, so it is possible that even though they say they have not purchased, that is not always an indication they will not purchase in the future.  Many spots are shot and held over a year in advance. 

Keep track of your pay stub, and when your holding fees are due, and if they keep coming in, there’s a good chance eventually airtime will be purchased.      

Please feel free to comment, or ask questions.

Until next time, I remain your humble and obedient servant. 

-Addison DeWitt