Legal Question in Entertainment Law in California

Re: entertainment manager salary

If you're dealing with someone who doesn't know... I question the wisdom of having him/her as your manager.

Manager commissions typically range from 10%-20% depending on the experience, "clout" and effectiveness of the manager.

It sounds like you may already have the host gig in the pipeline... why would you choose to share a percentage with someone who had nothing to do with getting you to this point?

Also, you should know that managers aren't allowed to "procure employment" for clients. That requires a license as a talent agent. So again, I ask you, what does this friend really offer you? From your inquiry, it sounds like he/she doesn't have any real-world ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY experience. "Management skills" are not the same as industry experience IN THIS FIELD.

If you decide to proceed...beware... management contracts rarely include much to protect the artist. Don't sign without good legal advice.

Re: entertainment manager salary

There is more than one type of manager in the entertainment business, and it isn't clear which type you mean. Talent managers give career guidance and network to keep your name in front of the right people, but legally cannot procure work for you. Business managers handle money, pay bills, and look after the nuts and bolts of business stuff. Neither requires a license or any particular qualifications, other than you trust their abilities.

Talent managers typically get 15% off the top, but might work for less depending upon how many other clients they have and the amount of time they devote to you. Business managers more often get paid a monthly fee (which could be a percentage).

The important thing is that you have someone you trust to look after your interests. Their experience and connections are less important if you already have the job. Contrary to what some of the other responses say, many of the most successful people in this business were/are managed by family members who had no experience starting out. In any case, you should have a written contract that spells out the expectations on both sides, so that you avoid ugly disputes later.

Re: entertainment manager salary

If a television network were to become seriously interested in hiring you, you would need to contact an established talent agent or manager, not some friend of yours.

Unless you are already working as a television personality, for example in a local TV market, I would ditch the idea of a manager for now and produce your show on YouTube.

Re: entertainment manager salary

Evaluate your friend's qualifications, but the standard in the industry is 20% of your gross. This number can change depending on a number of factors (i.e. experience, contacts, etc.)