Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
The Firm
201-896-4100 info@sh-law.comFirm Insights
Common Contract Mistakes Made in Hollywood
Author: Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
Date: April 2, 2014
Key Contacts
Back
Hollywood Contracts
Whenever an actor signs on to a movie, television show, commercial or other project, both parties have to come to a contractual agreement. The following are some of the most common mistakes made when signing a contract:
Not securing the opinion of an attorney
Whenever an actor is coming to a contractual agreement, it is recommended to seek the advice of an entertainment attorney. Studios, networks and producers will have a lawyer of their own in on the deal, which is why it is smart for actors to have one as well. An attorney can help actors better understand all the obligations they are agreeing to – which is valuable information that an agent may not be able to provide.
Not reading the document
One of the biggest mistakes an actor can make with contracts is not reading the full document before signing the dotted line. Failing to read a contract could lead to an actor signing one that comes with unfavorable conditions. For example, there could be a clause that they don’t fully understand or agree to, such as a royalties clause for reality TV stars, which gives the studio or network a percentage of a person’s earnings for appearances after the show is over.
Union status isn’t confirmed
When signing a contract, actors need to be sure to confirm union status. The agreement should be covered by the Screen Actors Guild, the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists or Actors’ Equity Association. For independent films, a call should me made to SAG to check if the producer of the project is a signatory for the organization.
Contract negotiations aren’t something that should be taken lightly, and actors should keep an entertainment attorney involved in all aspects of the agreement.
- Industries: Entertainment & Media
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Related Posts
See all
New Jersey’s Revised UHAC Regulations: What Residential Developers Need to Know About Affordable Housing Commitments
New Jersey residential developers with affordable housing obligations should carefully review their existing approvals, development agreements, and proposed deed restrictions in light of the State’s revised UHAC regulations (Uniform Housing Affordability Controls). The regulations, which took effect on November 6, 2025, significantly change the administration and physical requirements for affordable housing units. For developers with […]
Author: Wendy Rubinstein Quiroga
“No Comment” Culture: Why Silence Is Often the Riskiest Legal Strategy
A “no comment” response is sometimes the right call when a legal problem arises. As a blanket policy, however, it lets allegations go unanswered, deadlines pass, evidence disappear, and manageable disputes grow into expensive litigation. The businesses that fare best are usually the ones that say little publicly while acting decisively behind the scenes. When […]
Author: Sean M. Pena
Utility-Scale Battery Storage Projects: A Legal Roadmap for Developers, Property Owners and Other Stakeholders
Utility-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) are becoming an increasingly important component of the electric grid throughout New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. As renewable generation expands, electricity demand increases and grid operators seek greater flexibility, battery storage can help balance supply and demand while providing additional capacity and reliability. For developers, battery storage presents […]
Author: Nicholas Wall
Navigating Disputes: Hire a Partnership Dispute Lawyer
A falling out between partners can be disastrous for any business. In many cases, the partnership will not survive. If you are in an unworkable situation with your partners, it may be time to consult a partnership dispute lawyer experienced in handling partnership breakups and dissolutions before the situation deteriorates any further. It is easy […]
Author: Jay McDaniel
Section 363 Sales in Bankruptcy: What Businesses, Lenders, and Buyers Need to Know
When a company enters Chapter 11 bankruptcy, many assume the process will culminate in a lengthy reorganization plan. However, distressed businesses are increasingly being sold through a different mechanism — a sale under Section 363 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. A Section 363 sale allows a company, as a debtor-in-possession in bankruptcy, to sell […]
Author: John D. Giampolo
Zoning Laws Explained: What You Need to Know Before Buying Property
Before buying property, it is critical to determine whether local zoning laws may affect your plans. If you plan to redevelop the property, you will want to confirm that local zoning regulations permit development as intended. If acquiring property that is already developed, you must verify that the use is permitted in the underlying zoning […]
Author: Wendy Rubinstein Quiroga
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.