Actors who choose to represent themselves are known as self-managed or unrepresented actors. While it is possible to find work as an unrepresented actor, it can be more challenging and requires the actor to take on additional responsibilities and tasks traditionally handled by an agent.
Self-managed actors must actively seek out and secure their own auditions, handle contract negotiations, and manage their own public relations efforts. They may need to spend a significant amount of time on administrative tasks and may have limited access to certain opportunities that agents can provide.
Additionally, unrepresented actors may have less bargaining power when negotiating contracts and may not receive the same level of support and guidance as actors represented by agents. They may also find it more difficult to navigate the entertainment industry and may miss out on opportunities due to lack of industry connections or awareness of upcoming projects.
For actors who are considering becoming self-managed, it's important to carefully weigh the pros and cons, assess their abilities and resources, and consider whether they have the time, skills, and knowledge necessary to successfully manage their own careers.