My agent called this afternoon with the details of the “Bones” booking. Since I didn’t already have a Guest-star, one hour drama quote and my Guest-star, half comedy quote doesn’t quite translate I didn’t expect to get too much in the way of money for this job. Plus my half-hour Guest quote was for “Love Inc.” was on UPN and not one of the big four networks so, from negotiating standpoint we were pretty much starting from scratch. In the end I got everything I expected and a “little more”. The “little more” was my agent making sure I had the “nicest available trailer”. Cool.

I’ve had nice accommodations before, I think the nicest might have been…well the “nicest, nicest” was probably while flying to Tokyo, fully reclined at 38,000 feet over the Pacific Ocean, with this absolutely stunning Asian flight attendant taking my order for a 4-course meal to be served during the flight…her scent was like…her hands were so…anyway, back to reality, I think the nicest trailer was on “Ally McBeal”. It’s just good to have someone on your side to negotiate things like that for you because in many cases we actors just want the job.

Caleigh also told me that my co-star quote helped me get what I got for this guest-star role. I told her thanks and that the most important thing for me was the opportunity to work, furthering my relationship with a busy casting office, the main title credit, hopefully a nice piece of tape and the credit on my resume.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: “Cold Case” @ Shaner/Testa Casting. This is a great role I’m reading for today; 13 pages of sides. I think I’m really right for it too and my agent is excited to have gotten me an appointment.

The first time I read it for the CD I was doing a little too much “stuff” and I was giving the note. The character is doing “stuff” in the scene, but I guess I went a little too far. I did it again and was much more grounded and real. The second scene went pretty well; not great, but good.

After I was finished he took a close look at me and then my credits and then said he felt I looked too old for the character and requested that I read for another character. So I took time with those and went back in. I felt a bit too young for the character, but I think the read was good. My goal is to be someone he’ll bring back in future if not for this role. He shook my hand and I was on my way. I think callbacks are Monday and I don’t think I’m getting one for some reason.

When I think about how many drop-offs, postcards, workshops, classes and miles I’ve driven around this town I just shake my head. It’s been an overwhelming amount of work and I wouldn’t want to have to do it over again from scratch. The great thing is that I’m seeing direct results from the effort and creative approached I’ve developed. I must admit that it makes me feel great to have made some headway in such a difficult field.

The other day when I was at FOX Studios waiting to audition for “Bones” I was going over my lines and I saw a golf cart coming my way with two women in it. As they got closer I waved and smiled, not because I knew them, because I just like to greet others with a warm, open smile.

Truthfully, I wasn’t paying that much attention to them because I was working on my material and then I hear “Hey Stephon!” As they got closer I see that it’s a very important TV CD and her associate driving the cart. It caught me by surprise, because even though I have met and auditioned for them in the past I just rarely expect people to remember me.

I also recall when I was at the table read after booking “Criminal Minds” and CD Scott David made it seem like a no brainer that I would eventually get on the show. I was surprised by that for some reason. No brainer? I didn’t think he really remembered me specifically they way he made it seem. Maybe he remembers that at the workshop I attended of his that my scene partner slapped the heck out of me during the scene. I won’t call that scene partner “crazy”, but I will say she was “crazy adjacent” at least. The story……

Obviously, I know that all the work I’ve put in is paying off, but for some reason I’m still surprise that I get appointments. It’s still surreal to me for some reason.

Audition: “XXXXXX” @ Xxxxx Xxxxxx Casting. I hate doing that but they had me sign a confidentiality agreement to audition for this project and I don’t want any trouble! I remember dropping off for this film November 20th 2006 way out in Malibu. I got kinda frustrated because I couldn’t find the correct building and almost gave up, but I kept at it and finally found the right office. I never expect to hear anything from a drop-off I just wanna get my photo in the mix and see what happens…looks like something is happening.

I’m not positive it came from that drop-off way back when, but I think it might have have. I don’t think my agent submitted me for a role of just a couple of lines because they are trying to get me in for bigger stuff. When she called she wasn’t sure if I even wanted to read for it or not. I love that! I remember when a similar sized role came up for “Spiderman III” and she had the same reaction. “Stephon, I’m sorry it’s just a couple of lines, but it’s a big project…are you interested?”

For the record, my answer in these situations is almost always a cool “yes” on the outside, but on the inside it’s “YES!!!” It just shows how much my reps believe in me and want more for me, but I can work it from the other side, because everything gets run by me before decisions are made. It’s a really big project, with a really big director and I’m really right for this small role.

The casting office was not releasing any sides for the project so I was instructed to arrive early to go over the material. So I arrive early, park, get buzzed into the building, sign-in, get escorted into the elevator, go to the 3rd floor, sign the confidentiality agreement. Then and only did I get the on page of sides. Then I had to go back to the 2nd floor to audition.

I saw 3 other actors there that I knew and had worked with in the past. That always makes me feel good; it gives me the feeling that I’m on the right path. So after all of that the read went really. I did 3 different takes that were put on tape and that’s that. Oh yeah, when it was over the casting associate kept the sides.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: “Sony CyBravia” @ Plaster Casting. I got to play a waiter! It was fun and brought back some great memories because I was an excellent waiter if I say so myself. Who knows, maybe I’ll get a callback.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Wow, it’s been a busy 2-3 weeks. Cool, no complaints from me. My agent, Caleigh, left a message for me saying the she’d gotten feedback from “Bones” and to call her at the office. First, I have to say that it feels great to have an agent in the trenches with me hustling to get me seen.

She asked if I wanted the good news or the bad news first. I said I’ll take the bad news first, but I wanted to first thank her for her support, encouragement and always taking time for me.

So on to the bad news. The bad news was that I didn’t book the Guest leading role that I had the appointment for yesterday. Before I could tell her that I didn’t actually read for that role she flowed right into the good news. The good news was that I booked the role that they added just a few hours before my appointment. She said I am “the choice” and that FOX had already approved me. Needless to say I was shocked; totally shocked. I expected the good news to be along the lines of “we liked him, but he’s not right for this – we’ll bring him back”. The interesting thing is that this role is 10-15 years older than what I normally play. So we have to establish a quote and make the deal...wow.

This evening my commercial agent informed me that I had been released from my avail for the “AT&T” spots @ Ross Lacy Casting. I didn’t even know I was on avail. I hope I don’t continue my trend of commercial avail releases from the last year.

I was out doing drop-offs a couple of days ago and stopped by a casting office that I have a relationship with. I just put my photo in the box and was leaving, but then I saw a young guy and asked him if they were in. He wasn’t sure, but told me to go on back if I wanted to. I hesitated, but then went on back and the casting director and associate were there. They greeted me with hugs and asked what I’d been up to. They also told me about their current projects and made it clear to me that there was one I hadn’t been submitted for by my agent. I admittedly was a little surprised, by not worried or annoyed. I assume that happens from time to time and that’s why I’m out in the streets hustling, doing my part.

I called my agent and told her about the project and the roles the CD said I was right for. The CD said they’ll start reading actors in a couple of weeks and I’ll be brought in. Gotta stay on the grind.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

I'm sure most of us remember where we were when the news broke of the WTC bombings 6 years ago today. I sure do. When I saw it on the news I couldn't believe my eyes.

A New York actor friend of mine, Dorian Missick, stayed with me while in Los Angeles a few weeks earlier taking meetings and booked an episode of "NYPD Blue" to shoot here in LA. He was supposed to return to shoot on September 11th '01. I feverishly started dialing his contact numbers trying to confirm that he was okay.

I finally caught up with him; he was at the airport in Newark in preparation to fly here before all flights were grounded. Fortunately, he was able to eventually get to Los Angeles shoot the episode.

Callback: “AT&T” @ Ross Lacy Casting. Bright and early this morning I made my way out to Santa Monica for a callback that I thought happened last week. Turns out I was being brought straight to producers for an entirely different series of spots. Cool. The spots were really funny, small and subtle. I also got to actually see Ross and thank him for the countless opportunities he has given me over the years. The audition went well and maybe I’ll hear something later today.

Audition/Producers: “Bones” @ Rick Millikan Casting. This is great news for a couple of reasons. One, is that I auditioned for Rick’s other show, “Shark” about 5 weeks ago and it went really, really well. I think I was a little young for the part, but I think Rick liked what he saw in my work. One other reason is that this is a Guest lead of this episode, 3 scenes and 8 pages of sides.

Believe it or not I think I’m a little young for this one too, but “really right” for it. I’ll let the producers/director make that decision. So after working on it for hours I felt ready to deliver the goods.

THEN….

A couple of hours before my appointment I get a call from my agent saying that casting had called and wanted me to read for another role as well. I was immediately familiar with the role she was talking about because I’d read all of the other available sides. Get this – this character is even older than the original one I was to read for, by 5-7 years. What?! Oh well. I felt I was “really right” for this one too just maybe too young according to the specs. Again, I’ll let the producers/director make the decisions.

So I get to FOX studios and there are quite a few actors waiting to read and they haven’t started. So I found a place to warm up the scene and focus. Since it was really taking a while to start I decided to call my agent for two reasons. First, to thank her for “saving me from myself” concerning “Journeyman” (kind of long story) and to ask if they had booked the role I went to producers for. I was going to wait to call her later, but the end of the day was rapidly approaching.

Since I hadn’t heard anything I figured they had booked another actor on “Journeyman” and I was right. Caleigh didn’t want to give me the news until after my audition so it wouldn’t mess my head up, but I was okay. Actually, I felt great. No, I didn’t get the whole dealio with the booking, but I got the vast majority of a really good deal. On to the next!

After some time the session started and Rick greeted me. He asked what character I had and told him the original character and that they added another just a few hours ago. He said, “okay, we’ll just read that one for time”. I said, “okay cool”. This was the smaller role and the one that was way older than what I play – at least I think so.

I get in the room, give a quick wave to the producers/director, take my place and get ready to work. Right then, director Chad Lowe, says and waves “Hi” to me in a way that made feel like I’d met him before – I hadn’t. I guess he’s just really nice to actors which I think is great.
The scene went “smoove like butta!” I took my time and felt the levels. When I got up to leave, Chad, again, was super nice and waved good-bye. He seriously made me think about if I’d worked with him in the past. Nope, but hopefully I’ll work with him in the future.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Callback: “Journeyman” @ UDK Casting. I am so perfect for this role it’s not funny. The callback went really well, just like the pre-read; actually I got the feeling that the pre-read was really a “work session”. I took that to mean he was already planning to bring me back for a callback.

Anyway, I got in the room with CD Robert Ulrich and director/writer/producer Alex Graves. I did it once, said my good-byes and walked off the FOX studio lot feeling great about my performance and that my work is done.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Me with two of my favorite people in the whole
world - my 'lil bro Todd & my 'lil sis Avis.

Audition: "October Road" @ Donna Rosenstein Casting. My agent called with this one and wasn’t sure if I’d want to pass on it or not – it was just a few lines. I returned the call to let her know I wanted to go in for a couple of reasons; one of which is that I need and want to work, but the other reason is that the character is drunk. I wanna play drunk again! I played drunk in a play a couple of years ago.

Oh yeah, another reason (that I didn’t tell my agent) is that this is the casting associate that I had the long conversation with at the surprise birthday party earlier in the week. Cool. Maybe I’m learning to network!

The audition was on tape for producers and it was quick-fast, in and out. I’ve been trying to get into this office for years. Funny how things work sometimes.

Audition: "Journeyman" @ UDK Casting. This is the type of role that I really fit on many of the 1 hour dramas currently on TV. The character is a crime lab analyst; ya know the nerdy type guy who speaks intelligently, but is “TV cool”. This role fits me perfectly, not that I’m even “TV cool” but…. It’s a one-day Guest-Star, that is possibly recurring.

It’s funny, UDK is one of the busiest TV offices in the country and I wish I had the opportunity to audition there much more often than I do, but I do get in on occasion. I booked “CSI” there years ago and I know all of the partners. I know this particular partner for this audition better than the others, to the point of being able to call him directly if there is something I want to be seen for. In all of these years I’ve known him I’ve never called him once. I have called my agent that covers that office before about roles in the past, but they didn’t think those roles where right enough to put in a call; which is great because sometimes I need my agents to “protect me from myself”.

When we see each other or talk, which isn’t too often, there is usually a bit to catch up on and we do it at a frenetic pace. Fortunately, when I was brought in the room, he was just beginning to talk, but caught himself and then said “we’ll talk afterwards”. This was good because I was really prepared, the role is perfect for me and I just wanted to get to work.

The audition went perfectly; matter of fact I think it was the best theatrical audition I’ve ever had. Yeah; definitely. I did everything I wanted to do the exact way I wanted to do it. When I was finished he too said it was perfect and asked me to come back for producers on Monday. We then proceeded to catch up for the next 10-15 minutes. Yeah!

I then called my agent, Caleigh, to let her know how it went and she was thrilled. She told me that it has definitely been a priority of hers to get me in for more substantial roles and I have noticed it. We talked about the “co-star thing” for a bit as well. I’m in a great position in that I have these wonderful agents around me that continually believe in me and my talent.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition/Producers: "Cane" @ LaPadura/Hart Casting. This was a producer session for the role of US Attorney. I read it once and was redirected to do it again. I was really happy with the outcome. I was also happy that, personally, I fully embraced the notion of being believable as an attorney - I'm growing up.

Rehearsal: "Darfur Stories: Tell Them". This is for a staged reading at the University Synagogue. It was fun; I got to work a small group of talented actors including Nicole J. Butler, Emma Jacobson-Sive and Charley Rossman (who couldn’t make this rehearsal because he was shooting in Canada). We are all reading at least 6-7 parts so it was a little chaotic at times, but fun to be up on our feet collaborating and acting. The actual performance is Saturday evening.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: “Boston Legal” @ Valko/Miller Casting. This is a small, recurring role a clerk of the court. I’ve read for this office many times over they years, but haven’t booked since the first time I read for them for “Ally McBeal” – a long time ago. But they keep bringing me back and that is a good thing.

I was ready and the read went well. Ken Miller the CD gave me some direction and I took it; he asked me to come back for the producers/director later in the afternoon. He re-iterated that this role will, most likely, appear throughout the season.

Since I didn’t have anything else going on I hung out down in Manhattan Beach for a couple of hours until the producer session. The producer session went just okay I felt. I mean, it wasn’t bad; it’s just that I like to get right to work when I enter the room. After 9 years in Los Angeles I’ve worked with many of these producers/directors/writers in the past. So when you enter the room you don’t know if they remember you or not; so I was trying to concentrate on the work, but not be rude at the same time since everyone was being introduced to me.

Sure enough, the director I worked with on “Monk” was in the room. So in a split second my mind wondered if I should acknowledge him or treat him as just another face in the crowd. No worries, it just stayed in my head for a split second. So, we’ll see what happens. Ken Miller and Nikki Valko are great people to have in your corner and I’ll book for them again soon. I really want to be on “Boston Legal”.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Tonight my friend Denice Sealy invited me to attend a surprise birthday party for a casting associate at a really important TV office in town. I know this associate and have booked for the office, but I don't know him "like that" - obviously Denice is part of the "in crowd". I'm used to being left out and it’s okay – I’m pretty boring, lol!

Anyway, when the associate arrived he was really, really surprised to see everyone. We had a great time and had some great conversations about classic rock bands, Heart, Rush, Pat Benatar, Kansas, etc. Denice and I also spoke for a good while with a casting associate from another busy TV casting office in town. It’s always interesting to hear their perspectives on things. It was a great evening, surrounded by great people in a great house in Los Feliz – with a great view.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: “The Shield” @ FMW Casting. I got a last minute, same-day call for this one and it’s about the same time as my commercial audition for today. I’ll try to go to the commercial one a little later if there is a time-frame window.

The audition for “The Shield” goes well, not as well as some of my other recent ones, but well enough. I think I could have taken the direction better in the re-direct. Lesson learned. I think it’s the 5th time I’ve auditioned for the show. This is the last season and I would really like to get on it before it’s over; maybe this will be the charm.


All eyez on me! Back in the day! Class is in session!
I smile EVERYTIME I look at this photo. I just love riding my bike.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "Holiday-Inn" @ Joe Blake Casting. I'm not really sure how this one went. The session runner wanted a lot of energy and me and the other two actors thought we gave it to him, but while, ya know, "keepin' it real". He let us know that he wanted more energy and more volume. We did that in the 2nd part of the audition and it felt forced, fake and not so real, but the session runner seemed to like it. Maybe there's a callback in there somewhere – I don’t know. Oh yeah, it shoots in New York.

Audition: "Bud-Light" @ ASG Casting. This was a simple one, completely opposite of the first one today and it was good and fun. I booked my first commercial in Los Angeles at this office.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition/Producers: "Woman's Murder Club" @ Megan Branman Casting. I read for the role of a doctor. I'm gonna book one of these soon. I WILL! I don't mean the role of a doctor I did that in the pilot of "Hot Properties" a while back. I mean booking a role at all, lol!

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition/Producers: '"Til Death" @ Susan Vash Casting. I was in for this office just 2 weeks ago and I'm thrilled that I'm being brought back for another guest-star/possibly recurring role. I felt right for it and I’m losing a lot of my aversion to working on an AFTRA show – I think.

How crazy is this? Well, maybe it's not that crazy at all. Anyway, I thought it was at least interesting and you know me; I’ll watch paint dry just to make sure nothing happens.

Fred Thompson, who is all but in the race for the Republican nomination for the Presidency, is a well-known actor. Among other things he has appeared in well over 100 episodes of the "Law & Order" franchise.

Most candidates or potential candidates have formally announced whether or not they plan to run for their respective party’s nomination. At least one has already dropped out the race.

You might be wondering where the heck I'm going with all this. Or maybe you aren't. What does this have to do with actors?

The moment Fred Thompson officially declares his Presidential candidacy for the Republican nomination is this moment that all of his episodic runs and re-runs have to be pulled from the network schedules.

Why? Because any and all of his competitors can request equal time for the amount of time he's actually on the screen in any episode on broadcast television. I don't think the equal time provision extends to cable television, but the cable networks would probably pull the episodes too. I don't know, I thought it was interesting. That wouldn’t be good news for actors who worked in episodes with him, but great news for actor didn’t work in his episodes. Was that interesting?

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition "Bud-Light" @ Craig Colvin Casting. Funny spot, fun audition. It almost made me want to start drinking beer. It just looks and sounds cool to “get a coupla cold ones” or “bring some brewskis”. It just looks cool; I can’t even hold a beer the correct “cool way”. I always feel that you could tell that I was a “beer virgin”. I sorta regret not having that Heineken when I was 19? Well, not really. I had it all the way to my lips and then I couldn’t do it for the crowd around me.

Anyway, so I went back to "job job" to see what the dealio is. This time I put a little more pressure on; I went in to ask to speak to the gentleman. He was in a last minute meeting so I didn’t get to talk to him, but he said to call to tomorrow.

It’s funny, I’ve had to beg, borrow and steal to get every job I’ve had – well not every one, but most of them. In New York I went to that restaurant 3 different times, at Old Navy at least 4 times, The Hollywood Standard at least 3 times. It should be interesting.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

I stopped by the "job job" place to see if I can get some insight as to what my status might be following the interview last week. This is turning in a little project and its kinda fun.

I spoke to the receptionist, but I didn't want her to bother the manager I interviewed with. I was just taking the temperature of my situation. It sounds like the gentleman is super busy and hasn't gotten back around to me yet.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "Chevy" @ Cathi Carlton. Ah, this went okay. I felt really stiff for some reason. This spot was going to be with kids and I'm GREAT with kids, but I don't see a callback in my future for this one.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

The manager called yesterday for the "job job" interview this morning. It went well I think; I was very honest about why I was there and the fact that I'm an actor. The gentleman explained that they were looking for people that would/could grow with the company. I don't know that I'm looking to be a "company man", but at minimum I'm an excellent employee. The funny thing it’s something that I’m really, really interested in learning...oops. Am I planning an exit strategy from acting unbeknownst to me? I don’t think so; I’m just interested in nearly everything that’s all.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "Hyundai" @ Ross Lacy Casting. Ah, this went alright; I might have pushed it just a tiny bit too much...or maybe not...it's been a minute since my last commercial callback and I don't think this is gonna be the first one to start things off again. Gotta get ‘em next time.

My theatrical agent called this afternoon with a request from "Brothers & Sisters" to use footage from my appearance on the show for some sort of special episode - for a fee of course.

So it kinda equates to having booked another day on the show and I'll get paid everytime they use it. That's cool, I just had to stop by the office to sign the contract.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Print Go-see: "IBM" @ Ben Sealy Casting. You know how these go - quick, fast, in and out.

Last night I cooked up a normal, real-world work resume - boy, that was weird. It showed me how much training I "don't have", but I have a healthy amount of confidence and I feel I can learn many things and do an exceptional job. I went to drop it off at a place I think might work for me and my schedule and the availability I need. I actually ran into the exact person that I needed to talk to. I got a good feeling from him and he said he'd call me for an interview sometime this week. It's really weird to feel that I hope he calls. WHAT?!?!

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "Home Depot" @ Craig Colvin Casting. I've never booked for Craig, but I've been called back and placed on avail several times.

Also, I heard back from my agent about the "Shark" audition. They liked me, but I wasn't what they were looking for...I actually believe them too. Hopefully, I'll get back in that office soon. I've been feeling very confident in the audition room lately, not all the time, but more often than not.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "McDonald's" @ Jessica J. Casting. I'm perfect for it and it went perfectly. I've never done a "Mickey D's" spot before.

What to do, what to do... The more I read about the state of the entertainment industry the more I feel I need to prepare for a stormy road ahead.

There is constant talk of a possible work stoppage for us actors, writers and/or directors over the next year or so. As a result the studios/networks are stockpiling content so they won't get caught looking the other way if there is an actual halt in production. I don't want to get caught looking the other way either.

I don't know what to think. Will there be a strike or strikes? It could come close for any or all of the 3 Guilds. I'd like to think that none of the parties involved, WGA, SAG or PGA, want to see a work stoppage, but I went through the 2000 6-month commercial strike so I know that it can actually happen. That work stoppage definitely had an effect on my financial bottom line. I wasn't nearly as informed then as I am now and I don't wanna get "caught out there" again.

What I do feel strongly about is this. There will be at least a de facto strike. Overall 2007 2nd quarter Film/TV production was up 21% over the same period in 2006. Even if there isn't an actual work stoppage, most likely, there will be a slowdown because so much product will be on the shelves.

....hmm....

I don't wanna rely on residuals - they've been good to me over the years, but I can't live on them forever.

So that leaves me trying to beat "reality" to the punch...maybe a "job job" is in my future....perhaps. It's not the worse thing in the world, but my palms are sweating just thinking about it. I haven't applied for a job in almost 10 years – well, other than auditioning for TV/Film and commercials, etc. It could be exciting though; I loved everyday of my job in New York waiting tables. Well, maybe not everyday, but 90% of it.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "Shark" @ Rick Millikan Casting. This is a one-day guest star role. I was really happy with how it went. It was great to work on a role with a little bit to it.

I think I might have been typed out as soon as I hit the door. Why? Too tall. I know funny, huh? No, seriously, the script had a few references as to how short and small the character is. I'm definitely a small framed man, but I'm not overly short or small. I was the tallest guy there!

In the end, I think CD Rick Millikan was pleased with my work – at least I hope he was. That is a good thing since the season is young and he is also the CD for "Bones".

Audition: "'Til Death" @ Susan Vash Casting. When I arrived at the casting office Susan greeted me with hug; Susan booked me on "Love, Inc." a couple of seasons ago.

Star Brad Garrett was there along with several writer/producer types. I got a couple of laughs and left the room. That's it.....oh yeah...the next guy reading was also African-American and he got a hug too. Yeah, I felt a little less special, but I still really like Susan and associate Reyna Karp they're good people and a pleasure to read for.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Today is my 9 year anniversary of moving to Los Angeles. Geez, where does the time go?

I have to say that I'm really proud of my accomplishments. I truly feel that I have something to show for these past 9 years. No, everything isn't perfect, but I'm moving in the right direction and poised for a breakthrough.

It's been almost a decade of pursuing this dream in the Superbowl of my chosen profession - Hollywood. This is the biggest of the big leagues. I beam when I think back of getting the news of going to Spain and Japan; of booking my first TV job and first studio film, my first residual check, qualifying for insurance, performing in my first play at The Kennedy Center in Washington, DC…. I may not be a starter in the big game, but I've definitely played in the big game - numerous times.

I've learned a lot and I've given back a lot - that's something I learned from my mother.

This career can really take a toll on the body, mind, spirit, soul, car, etc. The constant hustle has been a test for me because I don't think of myself as this super resilient human being. BUT - As they say, "the proof is in the putting" and I have definitely been "putting" in the work. In my years in LA and NY I've seen many come and go and I have a tremendous amount of respect for those who "have had it" and decide to shift gears and truly move on with their lives in another direction.

On the whole I'm excited about the future, but I have a lot of work to do; both in the business and out. 9 years in LA? What the heck was I thinking? …I wasn’t thinking – I just did it…

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

The Business of the Business. That is what we actors are staring in the face right now. It’s tough for the rank and file performer and it doesn’t seem like it’s going to get any easier. One encouraging thing is that we are led by a more effective SAG leadership, in my opinion, than in recent years, but we are also dealing with huge, multi-billion dollar, international conglomerates. These conglomerates are trying their best to restructure the system of paying residuals - as in get rid of the system entirely.

With all of the contract negotiations going on now and into the near future it makes me wonder if I'll be able to continue making a living in the business - or if I want to. The question of "making a living" is an interesting one. Sure, I've made my sole living as an actor for several years and it feels great to present my tax preparer with the W-2's to prove it, but the uncertainty of earnings can be trying at times.

I've admittedly put a lot of pressure on myself for a long time and it may or may not be the best way to go about things. I know that a major part of it is that I'm not crazy about living in Los Angeles. LA has been very good to me, but living here has turned into quite the challenge - daily.

What I need to do is listen to more music and less talk radio, LOL! Some Led Zeppelin, Teena Marie, Alanis Morisette, Pat Benatar, Mariah Carey, Jay-Z, Gangstarr, Jamie Green or Lynyrd Skynyrd definitely gets my spirit moving. I love music, but I have a need to know what is going on around me – politics, local living, education, business, real estate – reality, and frankly it’s depressing in many ways, but I’m addicted to it. So I’m trying to do less AM Talk and more music and National Public Radio these days. I’m an information junkie and I have to get my fix, but too much NPR gets to me after a while too. The thing is that I’m so curious about so many things – it’s a problem. I think I'm due for some restructuring in some areas.

Usually, when I return from my summer sabbatical I'm eager to get back in the rat race. Not so much this time; I hadn't even been back in Los Angeles 24 hours when I had the feeling that I wanted to be somewhere else other than LA. I've thought long and hard about how I can improve my outlook about being here and I think I have some ideas.

Crazy enough, sometimes I think it would be easier to leave LA if I didn't have the foundation that I do concerning my acting career. I've made a bit of headway and have a solid team that believes in me - I'd be silly to leave and divest in what I've worked so hard to build. There's also the fact that I absolutely love working as an actor and the entire process of making films, TV shows, commercials, etc. - plus, being on set is a great, magical feeling.

I just wanna work and make a decent living; I don't dream about "blowin' up", "setting it off" or having people scream my name while crossing the street or shopping at the 99 Cents Only store. Although I think I would handle that stuff responsibly I'd rather ride my dirtbike or go skiing with my family. So, I have a plan to shake things up a bit.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition "Toyota" @ Ross Lacy Casting. I'm tempted to say "It went great and I'm really right for it!", but I'll spare you, BUT "it went great and I'm really right for it!" I know I get tired of hearing it too.



With my little brother Todd after catching some waves in Virginia Beach...Back when I was young and thin...19??

I gained some weight during my vacation...4 lbs. I'll hit the gym and get back to my fighting weight in a couple of days.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition "XXX" @ XXX Casting. I had to sign a two-page non-disclosure agreement to even audition for the spot. So I guess I should shut up now.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "Best Buy" @ Ross Lacy Casting. This goes really well. I was paired up with friend Yvette Nicole Brown as my wife and I think it worked. We came off as the "sitcom husband & wife". Ya know, the wife knows everything and the husband knows nothing. I see Yvette on TV way more than I see her in person and it was great to get to read with her.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "Life" @ Mia Levinson Casting. This role seems like it could be recurring. She had me read for another role as well. So we'll what the producers think when they view the tape.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Time's up; my month long, sanity-saving sabbatical from Los Angeles and the entertainment industry is over.

Am I ready to go back? …tick-tock-tick-tock-tick-tock…

That's complicated. I'm definitely excited about auditioning, skateboarding, seeing my agents, riding my mountain bike, being on-set and working and seeing my God-daughter and friends, but not at all excited about my apartment and having to find a place to park my car on my block.

I just really like being with my family; my younger sister, Avis, that has Down's Syndrome is one of the funniest people I've met in my entire life - ever. She is incredible.

Avis, blessing me after I cut my dreadlocks off.

No, every aspect of my family isn't "peaches and cream". Matter of fact some of it straight up "salt & vinegar", but the parts that are good are really good.

I'm not complaining...I'm just saying... LA has been really good to me, but I just have other interest as well. At the end of day I'm really happy and fortunate that I truly have a career to return to...

So I arrive at the airport at 1:50pm for a 3:16 flight. We didn't board the plane until 4:30 and sat on the tarmac in a very small propeller-driven plane until 6:30....with no A/C. Finally we went back to the gate and got off the plane.

An hour later we were instructed to re-board for the flight to New York. I said 'no'; I didn't wanna take the chance of sitting on the tarmac for who knows how long and/or missing my connection to Los Angeles. I requested to be rebooked for the next morning and called my brother to pick me up. One more night with family and another home cooked meal!

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Okay, so I agree to go out in the kayak with my neighbor Ryan again. This time we go in much more open water; I felt I could handle it....until I actually saw it. For a second I was wondering what the heck I was getting myself into; then I rationally reasoned that Ryan must have confidence in his skills or he wouldn't be out here either.

I know it looks calm, but 5 minutes before

this it was CRAZY!!!! LOL!

Somehow the 2-man kayak felt much smaller than it did last week in the calm inlet. So we launch the vessel and are paddling furiously to get through the current and a wave crashes over the bow of the kayak getting me soaked. There was enough water in the vessel that Ryan had to scoop some of it out. This was within 2 minutes of getting in the water! I’m wondering what the heck I’ve done in being out there in the first place, but tried to be cool about it. Actually, it felt good to risk things a little – kind of like living in Los Angeles – what the heck was I thinking….

Ryan and Flounder

Anyway, we caught some fish, but let them go to live another day. I hooked a skate which is a stingray-like creature; that thing put up the fight of his/her life...and won. It eventually broke my fishing line and got away; which was good because when I saw it at the surface and how powerful it was I didn’t want no parts of it.

Life Jacket - CHECK!

Afterwards we went to another spot and damn near got stuck because the tide was still going out. At times we were in 4-5 inches of water and the kayak was scraping the bottom. Ryan had to get out and actually push me into deeper water. You gotta understand that we were back in like a marsh area – just us two – and sun was going down. It was a little spooky to say the least. I thought Jason from Friday the 13th was going to show up next. I was definitely out of my element, but it was good time and I learned a lot.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Yes! Another day at the motocross track for me and the boys. Things were going really well until I blew up the motor on my bike. That was not good news. Fortunately, the engine didn't quit on the face of a jump – me going over the bars could have been really bad news. So I rested up for a bit and then blasted around on my brother’s bike to get my motocross fix.

Later, my younger sister, Avis, joined us for fireworks.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

YES!!! I finally went dirt bike riding today. I have to say 'I still got it'. Don't get me wrong; I'm not saying “I’m the man”; but I feel like I’m the man – a little. Keep in mind that I only get to ride about 4 days a year. I get better and have more fun every time I get out there. One day I plan to have the means to have a motorcycle in Los Angeles and get to ride weekly.

My brothers don't ride as much as they used to, but my nephew knows that when I come home we are definitely gonna get a couple of days at the track. My nephew is completely amazing to watch; he has the balance of a cat and excels in whatever he does. Like me, he hadn't ridden his motorcycle since December, but also like me, he didn't waste any time getting back in the flow of things.

The last several times I've been home my brother Todd has had the upper hand on the track, but that is over! I had him under control for the most part - that felt good. So I guess I'm the MX champ in the family again. I love riding my motorcycle and I plan to do it for a long time to come.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

It's funny that I actually have neighbors when I go home to Virginia. It's not the neighborhood I grew up in, but I know them better than the people in my building in Los Angeles.

Anyway, one of the neighbors, Ryan, is an avid kayaker. For years I would see his kayak strapped to his car and I'd comment about how crazy I thought it was that he'd go out in the open water in the tiny vessel - and fish at the same time.

The other day, while joking around with him, he flipped the script and invited me to take a trip with him. It's probably not something I would have sought out to do, but I couldn't decline the offer and still hold my head high - I woulda felt like a chump.

So today Ryan took me out into a relatively calm inlet to get my feet wet. Admittedly, I was a little nervous because the thing was so small for two people. I found that the kayak was much more stable than it looked. I even caught a bluefish and saw some amazing homes on the water. It was fun and I'd do it again – thanks Ryan!

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

I like fishing; it was one of the many activities I enjoyed growing up, but I haven't been in a long time ago - probably 1991. So today my brother, his wife and the kid’s surprised me with a half-day trip on a 61-foot charter boat in the Chesapeake Bay. We had a blast and nobody got sick - thanks Dramamine!

We kept about 25 fish, but caught more - the others were too small to keep. My brother fried it up and I must say that his skills in the kitchen are coming together - I guess you have to learn to cook if you're married with two kids.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

YES! Today, me and the family and a few friends took our annual trip to the AMA National Motocross Championship Race at Budd's Creek in Maryland. This is the 5th year in a row we've attended the event and we always have a blast. I think the racing we saw today was the best we've seen, thus far.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

It worked; I can't believe it. Usually when I fly home I’m routed through Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Charlotte, etc. Well, this time I flew with Delta because the fare was considerably lower and one my choices for connecting flights was through JFK in New York. I chose that flight because I hadn't been to NYC since July 2003 and I really wanted to see my dear friend Genine who lives in uptown at 123rd & Madison.

I figured if by chance my connecting flight gets cancelled I'd rather be in New York than another, sorta random city. When I left LAX this morning I didn't really think much about it because I booked the ticket so long ago and I hadn’t heard any weather advisories....

Anyway, about 3/4 of the way through my LAX-JFK flight we were placed in a holding pattern and I got a great view of a couple of The Great Lakes.....for almost an hour. Which meant it was looking like I might not make my connecting flight.

We land nearly an hour late and I rush off of the plane...from seat 41A (I always pick seats with numbers of significance)...only to find that my flight to Virginia had been cancelled. I instantly became one of many, many people that would be staying in New York overnight.

Right about this time my commercial agent called…oops. What could this be? I wasn’t up for anything. So I answered and it was just telling me to disregard a commercial audition that had been email to me since they knew I was out of town. Cool, I’m on vacation…in an airport.

My mind started racing about what to do. Did I really "need" to get home to Virginia tonight? Nah. Did I really wanna see my friend Genine and New York? YES!!! So I surprised her with a call to tell her that I was in town and what my situation was. I didn't know what the airline would do other than book me on another flight. They wanted to book me in the morning to Atlanta to wait for hours to get back to Virginia……uhhh no! I wasn’t going to ride the train all the way to Harlem to rest for a few hours to get up to go to Atlanta when I’m really going to Virginia. That’s not gonna work for me.

So I made up a story and got them to book me on the last flight of the evening tomorrow so I:

wouldn’t have to get up really early in the morning.
could see Genine and have lunch with her tomorrow
could hang out in Manhattan for a good part of the day.

The only thing I forgot in my master plan of getting stuck in New York was that I didn’t really have anything decent to wear. I attempted to wait in line to get my checked bag, but then I thought about having to carry it around Manhattan with me. I abandoned that plan and rolled out with my backpack…at least I had my tooth brush.

OMG! It really showed that I hadn’t ridden the train in years; I felt like a tourist in the city that had been so great to me almost a decade ago. I rode the A train to the 6 to 125th Street. I was back in the Manhattan and it felt great! I even had a hooker whisper to me “what you wanna do boo?”, I was like “Nah, I’m good” and kept on walking. That was at 124th & Park Ave. I finally made it to my friend’s place and got some rest for the night.

The next day I met Genine at work for lunch and had a great conversation about several things as we usually do. It’s funny that my three brothers and I met Genine at a restaurant in Virginia Beach back in 1990 and she’s still a close friend of the family.

With the time I had left I went on little tour; things that I hadn’t thought about in years came back to me in an instant. I must say that it was a bit emotional at times. I walked by the first place I lived in New York, 450 W 46th St in Hell’s Kitchen – wow! Then I hopped on the M11 and went up to another place I lived at 244 W 61st St – wow again! From there I walked to where I used to work, The Harley-Davidson Café at 56th & 6th – it’s now a bank!

From there I made my way back through Times Square and thought about when I made a special trip to New York years ago to see myself on the Wrigley’s Jumbotron – in Times Square! That was a very special feeling because I used to walk through there all the time on my way to work and seeing myself on that screen gave me the chills.

So I made it back to JFK in plenty of time to catch my flight…little did I know I would be leaving 4 hours late. I was started to feel weird about having to rely on so many people – from getting a ride LAX, to having to call Genine at the last minute, to my brother that was supposed to pick me up last night, to not knowing if and when I was getting in tonight. So I talked to my brother and told I had no idea when I would really be arriving and if it’s too late I’ll just sleep in the airport and call him in the morning…what the Hell was I thinking? Actually, I was just trying to be super respectful of his time; he has a lot on his plate and work long hours. I got in after 1 am and slept under the courtesy phones for rental cars until 7am…well tossed and turned until 7am…in short sleeping on the floor in an airport sucks.

I left LAX at 9:30 Tuesday morning and didn’t get to home until 7:30 Thursday…and it was worth every minute to not be in LA right now AND I got a taste of New York for free. I still can’t believe my plan worked.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

This evening, as a sponsor of The Cricket Feet Casting Actors Showcase, I spoke to some of the actors for a couple of hours about The BUSINESS of the Acting Business. I must say it feels great to be able to add new ideas to another’s approach about something I’ve gain knowledge in.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Tonight I attended The Upfront Network Preview at The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. Attending this event is always inspiring for me to want to work in front of the camera more and it’s great to see people I know in the pilots and/or have worked with in the past. As far as the shows go, I saw some interesting things. I’m not the greatest judge on writing and stuff like that, but I like seeing actors with jobs. One year I even saw myself in two of the pilots shown.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Finally! I played tennis today. I got my a** kicked by a woman I met online, but it was a lot of fun. I've wanted to play for a good while. Sometimes you can catch me hitting the ball against the Smart & Final on my street. It's not very smart because most of the "court" is in the street. I must admit that it's a blast and passing motorists get a kick out of it. I have to keep reminding myself that I'm not 15 anymore.

Speaking of 15; I've been working out at the gym a lot lately. Not that I feel 15 or particularly enjoy it; but it keeps me busy and I'm probably in the best shape of my adult life. I'm fortunate that I'm pretty athletic, eat relatively healthy and have a metabolism that works me.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "Hewlett-Packard" @ Joe Blake Casting. I may be a little young for this spot according to the specs, but it went great. This should be my last audition for a while; I'm due for a break and I need to, want to and can’t wait to get out of LA for a bit.

Tonight I participated in a staged reading for a casting director who specializes in low to medium budget films. It had been quite some time since I had been a part of one and it was again a cool experience. Not to sound "connected" or "exclusive", but I probably shouldn't mention the project by name since the director and writers' name were not on the script and I heard the director say that they were trying to keep on the DL. I'll say this; the director is the son of a very, very well known actor.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

It's back. What? This eye twitch that I get periodically. When I've asked my doctors in the past about it they say it's just stress. Admittedly I'm putting quite a bit a stress on myself these days. Non-acting stuff. Maybe "stress" isn't the right word; how about "new challenges". Yeah, I like the sound of that.

Actually I've been in the classroom for the past two Saturdays and have really enjoyed it. Again, non-acting. I like learning about almost anything; I think I'm the most curious person in the world. I think I'd like to take a ceramics class and a typing class in the near future.

I finished my 5-week voiceover class last week. I learned a lot; mostly that I have more work to do before I am ready to compete in the commercial voiceover world - I expected that. It's not easy to do well; it's a craft and a skill.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Rerun: “Weeds” eps: “The Punishment Lighter” @ 9pm and 9:30pm on Showtime.

To all of the men, women, aunts, uncles, sisters, brothers, mothers and fathers serving in the armed forces - thank you! Los Angeles National Cemetery

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Rerun: “Monk” eps: “Mr. Monk Is On The Air” @ 10pm on USA Network.

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Rerun: "Frasier" eps: "Love Stinks" on Lifetime @ 10am.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: “Toyota Prius” @ Joe Blake Casting. This is a spec spot for a director’s reel. It was fun and I’m right enough for it – I think.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Today I'm scheduled to speak @ The Actorsite – open to non-members and free to the public. I’ve spoken to hundreds of actors over the years so you might think I’d be used to it by now, but the fact of the matter is that I’ve get unbelievably nervous in the days leading up to it. I don’t know why, but I do. In the end they always go very well and I walk away feeling like I’m making a difference – and that is a good feeling.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: “Skittles” @ Francene Selkirk Casting. This is a really funny spot and I had a great time reading for it. It's always funny auditioning here because Francene, the casting director, knows that I write about her in my blog. I "have" to write about Francene because she brought me in for my first audition ever in Los Angeles - one day I'll actually book something for her! She's cool and very actor-friendly.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "Comcast" @ Kathy Knowles Casting. Good stuff; I get a fair amount of callbacks and avails at this office. It took me almost 2 hours to get home from Santa Monica from this audition and it nearly drove me crazy. I’m usually pretty even-tempered about most things, but for some reason I about lost my mind today over traffic. I actually had to ride my bike to my voiceover class tonight so I could calm down. If I had to drive there I would have ditched class. Maybe riding my bike is my form of yoga.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Yesterday was Mother's Day and I really wish I could have picked up the phone and talk to my mom, but I can't. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t envious of those that are able to do that.

Audition: "Campbell's" @ Deborah Kurtz Casting. Funny spot and I'd love to be a part of it.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition “Thunder Geniuses” @ Neely Gurman Casting. I read for the director for this Ultra low budget feature. The director seemed really happy with what he saw, but I have a feeling that he was just really nice and appreciative to everyone – kinda hard to read. It was one of those where I made some different choices that weren’t on the page – it took some chances, but I’m not sure they translated.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Twelve years ago today @ 6:30am Eastern Standard Time I arrived on the island of Manhattan a.k.a. New York City from the suburbs of Virginia Beach, VA. In my wallet was $196 and not much else.

I spent the next 4 months living in the Hell's Kitchen area of Manhattan at 46th & 9th Avenue. Hell’s Kitchen was very different in '95 than it is today. Now it's a much, much nicer place to live. My arrival in New York wasn't my first time there, but I hadn't ever spent more than 3 days there at one time. I really had no idea what to expect; I didn't know if I'd adapt quickly or if NYC would systematically break me down. The only thing I knew was that I was on a mission and I was very, very serious about what I was trying to accomplish. It was an eye opening experience to say the least.

My living situation was basically a large room with 3 other actors (all smokers). I shared a full-sized bed with my friend Greg who I made the move together with and sometimes the dog. My job, at the time, was the worst job I'd ever had - I was a busser at The Harley-Davidson Cafe @ 56th & 6th. A hard thing to swallow was the fact that I was actually making less money than I made in Virginia Beach - I had a tough road ahead of me.

Oh yeah, the dog didn't like me all that much; one night he/she vomited in the bed I shared....under the covers....on my side...and the dog didn't tell me. How did I find out? Well, one night/morning after a long shift at work I got into bed and felt something cold on my foot.....yeah…pretty nasty.

Things could only get better - and they did. After several moves around town I eventually got my own bed, my own room and a promotion to a server at The Harley-Davidson Cafe that tripled my pay. The worst job I'd ever had turned into the best job I ever had. I even fired the talent manager who, after a year, still couldn't pronounce my name; immediately afterwards I signed with Stephon Fuller Management; right away things started to happen.

It blows my mind when I think back to what I've seen, what I've learned, where I've been and who I've met over the past 12 years. But what really blows me away is how much I've been able to give back to the industry that has given me so much. I think I picked up being a giver from my mother; I watched her give and do for others over and over again. She is a tough act to follow, but I try.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "Hanes" @ Ross Lacy Casting. This went great, I'm perfect for the character and my callback/avail ratio with this office is pretty good.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "LA-Z-BOY" @ ASG Casting. Guess what I'm going to say about this audition? Yup, you're right, "it went really well!" I'm so confident these days and I'm looking forward to scoring again soon...really soon.

Audition: "Time-Warner Cable" @ Joe Blake Casting. This was fun AND I got to wear a mullet wig. Ya know the kind; "Business in the front, party in the back". I wish I could have seen myself in it.

This was the first audition that I had that implemented "The Casting Frontier" method. I'm not totally versed in exactly what they do, but in a nutshell The Casting Frontier is a system that automates the check-in process and several of the big commercial casting facilities are using it.

It's free, at least for now, I don't know if it will remain free if it catches on it.

Anyway, I had signed up several months ago so I was already in the system. When I went to sign-in like at any other commercial audition the coordinator asked if I had my "Barcode". I didn't know what she was talking about. So she directed me to one of the TCF computers and I logged in to my account and printed my barcode. The barcode had all of my sizes and agency info encoded.

As a result: no headshot needed, no resume needed, no Polaroid needed and, get this, no filling out a size card...pretty cool.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Okay, now I’ve been officially released from the “Sprint” print ad. I actually had a talk with my agent about always being the "just released" guy. I get a lot of avails, but a lot of releases too. Anyway, moving right along. Today was a really good day of accomplishment in getting some other exciting things done; I’m still not sure how I’m going to finish it, but I know I’m moving forward. I hardly notice how quiet it’s been lately on the acting front; hopefully that will change soon.

Blast from the past alert!!!

Long A** Time Ago
Long A** Story
Long A** Cadillac

Who knew there were several cheerleaders in my past? Ha! She might have been voted “Most like to….”. I don’t know. I was voted “Most likely to jump in a lake…on my BMX bike”…not really, but I did it anyway.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Again?! What?! You have to be kidding. Nope. It's only the beauty of my life experiences.

The anatomy of how booking the job isn't always the whole story. An "official booking" is about 91.07544% of the way - Let's talk about the other 8.92456%....

A couple of years ago I booked a role in the film of an Oscar winning director, Steven Soderbergh. I was scheduled to work with two Oscar nominated actors; Elliott Gould and Don Cheadle. Unfortunately, the scene was cut before I got a chance to shoot it - yes, I was paid. The film was "Ocean's Twelve".

One of the cool things about the booking was that I booked it about 3 months before I was scheduled to shoot. So I had those 3 months of promoting it in postcards and on my resume. Then the news came that the scene was cut from the script. I took it in stride, of course, and after a while I thought about it less and less and moved on. Then, of course, when the film was getting ready for release it was like it was happening all over again. I would drive past Warner Bros Studios and see the posters and just shake my head.

I looked at the experience as a great story to be a part of and I strongly felt that Steven Soderbergh would hire me again in the future.

Cut to:

A couple of years later. Mr. Soderbergh hires me a second time and, true to form, I am scheduled to work with an Oscar winner – this time Al Pacino. I book the role four months before shooting with gives another great window of promo and the enjoyment of knowing that the shoot is coming up.

The months turn into weeks and before I know it the shoot is “next week”, but conflicts were on the horizon. Conflicts in the form of a commercial booking. The moving dates started shifting and things got really interesting. In the end I had to pull out of the film due to “scheduling conflicts”. Having to back out of this role morphed into a pretty cool story I must say.

I shot the commercial only to get cut out 4 months later just before airing. Wow. So here I sit again; another “Ocean’s XX” movies that I booked, but will not appear in. Who else can say that? Actually, I wish I wasn’t able to say it myself. It would have been nice if things could’ve worked out, but I trust that things happen the way they do for a reason…and with that I trust that Steven Soderbergh will hire me a third time…and I might even get to shoot it…and that is the other 8.92456%...

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

This writing that I do and the effects of it never ceases to amaze me. Even I’d think that I would be used to it by now, but honestly I get extremely nervous when someone says something to me in public about it. I have no idea why. I think at the end of the day it comes down to me not being too comfortable in the spotlight.

Don’t get me wrong, I can handle myself with no problem, but I kinda like being in the shadows and watching others. I have little desire to “make it” on any type of mega-crazy level. The attractive part of that for me would be to be able to fly home to see my niece play field hockey and my nephew play baseball, have dirt bikes to ride, learn to play tennis, start racing BMX bikes again, do ceramics and woodworking, learn about investing, work on cars, learn to cook, etc.
Make no mistake; I really want to work more too – a lot more. Being on-set and on- location is an incredible feeling. Landing in another country after a long flight with a different native language and seeing the driver picking you up holding a sign that says “Fuller” is pretty incredible. Getting per-diem in another country’s currency is also pretty incredible.

Anyway, what the heck am I talking about? Who knows. I was at a workshop tonight, sitting in the back row, against the wall – a comfortable spot for me. It’s a safe place where I just kinda watch what goes on – I am fascinated by people in general and just love to watch what they do and why.

So I’m sitting there, sorta hiding, hat pulled low and the one of the guest is talking about how it’s great to meet new actors. Shortly after that he looks straight at me and says “I’ve seen your website”. I was frozen and just muttered something; he then said “You have a website right?” I answered, “uh…yeah…yeah I do”. He told the room that when he was an intern at a talent agency he read my entire Long Ass Bio over a 3-day period. What? Are you kidding me?

Afterwards, we spoke one on one and he told me the he’s recommended my writings to others to read. Who would’ve thought – not my English teachers in grade school that’s for sure.

Also this week I received a particular e-mail that nearly brought me to tears. It just hit me at the right time. I’ve been putting a lot of pressure on myself lately to get a few really important things accomplished and it gets to be overwhelming at times. Nothing bad, in fact, they are all very good things. It just involves a bit of concentration, patience and research. Nothing I can’t handle. After having a tough couple of days it was the right medicine for me – thanks again Debbie.

Supposedly, I’m still on-avail for the “Sprint” print ad, but to be honest, I’ve mentally released myself – NEXT!!!

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Tonight I started a new voiceover class with Lori Tritel; I’m trying to make it happen in this area as well. Gotta diversify my portfolio! Class was fun; I have to work on finding and controlling my voice, learning to breath, trusting my instincts yet being much more imaginative at the same time – whew!

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

In general, actor showcases are designed for performers to hopefully get representation from Agents and/or Managers and to be seen by Casting Directors. I haven’t been in one because I, fortunately, have usually had effective representation. Tonight I attended the Cricket Feet Casting Actors Showcase produced by:

Cricket Feet Casting is a company run by our showcase producer Bonnie Gillespie, indie film casting director, author of Self-Management for Actors, and weekly columnist for Showfax.com. Showcase coordinator Eitan Loewenstein is a working actor, available through Origin Talent. In addition to being an accomplished theatre director, our showcase director Richard Tatum is a busy voiceover actor/coach and headshot photographer.

There were 35 very talented actors participating in 17 very well directed scenes – all in one hour.

The team did their homework in putting this event together and it showed. The scene transitions and music were great. Complimentary food and drink before and afterwards and get this - validated parking. Something else they accomplished was to smother the myth that it’s impossible to get industry professionals to attend showcases. The house was packed with CD’s, agents, managers and producers, etc.

Congratulations to all and I predict that many phones will ring with opportunities as a result of the showcase – good luck!

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Callback: “Bank of America” @ Jeff Rosenman Casting. The callback went pretty well. Jackie “my wife” was so sweet beautiful and smart. I really enjoy talking about stuff other than acting with her – nice! For some reason I don’t expect to hear anything else from this spot. I don’t know why.

Audition: “Swiffer” @ Craig Colvin Casting. It went okay, nothing special.

Jenny, my print agent, informs me that I’m still on avail for the “Sprint” ad; I was supposed to hear “book or release” last Friday. One of these day I’m gonna……

In other news, my friend, photographer Aaron Wulf, finally has his new website up and running. Aaron shot my print card and was great to work with. He has an incredible eye for composition and is reasonable – check him out at https://www.aaronwulf.com/portfolios.html

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Okay, I've decided on a new direction concerning my "not so great" attitude towards AFTRA. As one man and one actor I can't change AFTRA as an entity, but I can change my relationship with AFTRA.

My new attitude is to fully embrace the guild known as AFTRA and make it work for me. This morning I called my theatrical agents and asked them about daytime soaps. I’m not really talking about contract players; more like something recurring. I just wanna continue to be on set and act. This afternoon I did a mailing to the 5 LA-based soaps.

Doing a mailing was really weird because I hadn't done one in years. I've always been a "get out there in the mix" type of guy, but I didn't think I'd be able to drop-off in person at one of the studio lots so I just mailed all five. Hopefully, between this mailing and my agents I can get on the road to success.

Funny enough, I've been in Los Angeles for almost 9 years and I have never had an audition for a daytime soap - not once. Soaps haven't been my focus, but still. My focus from the very beginning was commercials and "Blue Chip" TV shows - 30+ commercials and an estimated 25 TV bookings later I'd say I've seen some progress. In '03 I added Studio films to the mix and have booked 3, but only appeared in one for various reasons. So time will tell if I can crack this daytime soap thing. Even in New York I only had one daytime soap audition in nearly 4 years.

For the last several years I've had serious questions about whether I wanted to stay in Los Angeles for the long haul. No, I don't have a college degree, but there are many other things I feel I could do well. Plus, I can always go to college if I want.

In recent months I've come to the decision that I gonna make LA and the entertainment business work for me – long-term. Well, I’m not necessarily saying for the rest of my life, but at least for the foreseeable future. I can’t deny that I have forged a great way to make a living. No, I haven’t made tons of money, but I have been able to pretty much do things “my way” and that is a great feeling. I’m excited. I have a lot of things on my plate right now and they all aren’t acting or entertainment related which is refreshing. I love business and “the biz”, but it’s so nice to get away from it. I wanna ride my motorcycle or go skiing!

I also spoke with my commercial agent about voiceovers. I used to have a v/o agent at my commercial agency, but when she left to go to another agency they closed the entire department. So I contacted her at the powerhouse agency that she’s currently at and explained my situation. I’m gonna take a voiceover class, get my demo together and submit it to her. Cool!

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Oh well, obviously, I didn’t go to Cleveland over the weekend for the “ESPN” promo gig. I’ll be on the lookout for the spots to see who they chose, plus they were really funny.

Audition: “Mazda” @ Spot Casting. My partner and I had a good thing going in this one – just real and subtle.

This evening my print agent called to let me know that I’m on avail from the “Sprint” print ad I went in for last Friday. Cool! It would be great to book something – anything! Ha!

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Print go-see: "Sprint" @ Ben Sealey Casting. You know how these usually go - quick, fast and in a hurry.

Audition: "Bank of America" @ Jeff Rosenman Casting. This was a lot of fun; in the spot my "wife" and I just bought a house and we were discussing our happiness in having done it – I plan to imitate at least part of that equation sooner than later.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Callback: "ESPN Promo" @ ASG Casting. Yes! One step closer!

So I enter the audition room that I've been in several times in recent months for callbacks and see the familiar couch where the producers, director, client and ad agency people sit. The only thing that was different was that no one was sitting on the couch - it was empty. As a matter of fact the entire room was empty.

I go in and sit in one of the 3 chairs while the other actors entered the room and there was a TV monitor in front of me. I could see about 6 people on the monitor - and they moving. I wasn't sure if they could see me so I waved to them - and somebody waved back.

The entire creative team was in Cleveland and we were performing through tele-conference. The read went well especially the improv part. So we'll see; I'd love to go to Cleveland tomorrow.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Okay, I did something really, really stupid yesterday. I had kind of a really busy weekend - for me. Ya know, several late nights in a row. Bottom-line is that I overslept this and was late moving my car. I was supposed to move my car by 8am and I didn't wake up until 8:40.

So I jumped up, put on some pants, grabbed my skateboard and rush to get to my car. Mind you, at this point I had only been awake about 60 seconds from a very a deep sleep. So I'm skating to the stoplight to cross the street and for some reason I crossed/skated in front of a car that I had a feeling was going to start moving forward very soon - like now.

Sure enough I was right and wrong at the same time. Right because the car did start moving forward and wrong because I shouldn't have been crossing without first seeing if "the coast was clear". As a result I almost got my a** ran the heck over this morning - seriously. And it totally would have been my fault - straight up. I probably scared the heck out the driver because I sorta came out of nowhere. My apologies to the driver of the white Mercedes-Benz - sorry.

Audition: "Safeway" @ Ross Lacy Casting. Good time; we'll see.

Audition: "Citibank" @ Ross Lacy Casting. The woman I auditioned with is also with KSA for commercials. I see her on TV all the time; we had a great time together.

Audition: "ESPN" Promo @ ASG Casting. This spot is with Jimmy Kimmel and LeBron James. Funny, funny, subtle stuff. It went great and shoots this weekend in Cleveland.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition "Applebee's" @ Sobo Casting. This went okay, I misunderstood what the session runner said, through his New York accent, when he instructed us what to do. Maybe that means it's time for an East Coast visit.

Anyway, he said "discuss your 'day". I thought he said "discus your date". So I start this improv about online dating and my partner just lights up, but then session runner stops and says, "not date, day".

LOL! We did it again and it was more what he was looking for. I got to go twice because they needed another man to read with another woman who didn't have a partner.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html

Audition: "Direct Energy" @ Craig Colvin Casting. This is when having an open schedule dedicated to my career comes in handy. This call came in @ 12:05pm and the appointment was 1:05pm. I guess, in a sense, part of my job is to simply be available for what might come up. It went well and I think I'm right for it.

Ya know I've been doing drop-offs since first arriving in Los Angeles almost 9 years ago. Even back when some would say it was a "waste of time and not a way to move your career forward". Even back when you could effectively do commercial drops; after all that's what led to booking a "Pizza Hut" national commercial which led to two additional "Pizza Hut" nationals. It also led to the "Honda" job that I shot 4 days here in LA and 4 additional days in Japan.

As a result of my methodology concerning drop-offs I find myself having to curtail the practice. Why? Because it's worked so well and in order to move forward in my career I need to alter my tactical approach. That doesn't mean I'll no longer do drops, of course I will, it just means I have to dig deeper and diversify my thought process.

Speaking of the "Honda/Japan" commercial I did almost 5 years ago. I decided to stop by the office of the producer in an attempt to reconnect. I didn't even know if they were still active or still at that address.

When I walked in the building I saw a drop box with the company name on it and I figured that was a good sign. So I go upstairs to the door of the suite and pause to get my head together. I needed to freshen my own memory of the experience; after all it was 5 years ago.

I couldn't see through the door because it was frosted; so I knocked.....nothing. Then I see a shadow walking towards the door; my heart was pumping, I didn’t know what to expect. The door slowly opens and it’s Ron, the producer that hired me 5 years ago. He seemed a little surprised to have a visitor; especially considering he had no idea who I was. I was prepared for that and had all the buzz words ready to quickly bring him up to speed. In an instant I was able to refresh his memory and, ironically, he said he had just worked with one of those producers just weeks ago.

I didn’t want to take up a lot of his time, so I gave him my headshot and was on my way. He then made sure my agent info was on it and said he would keep me in my mind if anything came up. Great! That’s all I was trying to accomplish. Sure, it’s a long shot, but I have to remember that I originally got the job 5 years ago while out doing drop-offs…I didn’t have an appointment. I still smile when I think that a drop-off lead to a trip to Japan.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html