Callback: “WaMu” @ Ross Lacy Casting. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect for this one. I figured I’d be doing my flawless dance moves again, but this time with an actual woman instead of by myself.

I decided to walk to the casting office from my apartment so I’d be loose and ready do my thing. I got there at 10am, signed in and scanned the lobby to see who I might be paired up with.

Part of the funny in the spot is that the husband is really small and the wife is a “woman of generous size”. Sure, I’m a little guy, but I’m not tiny by any means. Both of the other guys I auditioned with at the first read were significantly shorter than me, but I wasn’t going to worry about that.

So I was eventually paired with this sexy, really attractive “large and in charge” woman – a lot larger than me – a lot sexier too. I’m not a good dancer so I needed all the help I could get and we decided to practice before going in together.

One of the guys who had already gone in was kind enough to teach us the step we’d be doing together. I was rusty, but trying to get the hang of it and not take it too seriously. Sista girl was making it happen and let me know that I was wack as hell – whatever.

Anyway, a moment later the choreographer came and paired us up again – this time with different people. My new partner was older, larger, a better dancer and very serious. I’m funny, but not that serious – this could be trouble. I wasn’t sure how it was going to work between us. We practiced and I sucked, but I was really trying. I just needed a bit more time to relax into the steps.

I probably weighed half as much as she did and I think she was taller than me too; so I couldn’t really push her around too much. By the last rehearsal I was starting to “feel it” and actually have fun.

A few moments later we were in the audition room ready to slate our names. I could see how we looked together on the monitor in the one way glass and just the sight of us was hilarious. The dialogue part of the audition went really well; I didn’t do too much and fall into trap of “needing too act”.

Now the dance part. I felt kinda ready, but I was still shaky. Right before we started our 8 count I got all frisky and funny. I HAD ARRIVED!!!!

At this point my life went into slow motions. A smirk somehow found its way to my face and I said, under my breath; “come to me baby!” In one blissful moment our hands met perfectly. Then, my life, still in slow motions, went cold - I began to turn – THE WRONG FREAKIN WAY!!!!! Noooooo!!!! Yes!

Go back – about five minutes earlier when I said that I weighed about half as much as her. Sistergirl MUSCLED my narrow ass back around in the correct direction and with that we were off to the races. She probably couldn’t even tell that my dainty ass was going the wrong way. The rest was lovely and we ended with a bang. I felt pretty good and she felt great. The director seemed very happy too. She complimented me on the way out and said I was funny and wonderful. I told her she was “wonderfuller”. So that was that and I walked home with a smile on my face.

Two hours later @ 12:40 I got a call saying I was on avail for the spot. Great! My agent informed them of the 17th, 18th & 19th slightly conflicted with the dates of the “Texas Lottery” spot which are in the 19th, 20th & 21st. They seemed pretty confident that I could do both spots if I booked them.

Two more hours later my agent calls saying that “WaMu” added the 20th to the shoot dates. They also asked that if I had to make a decision which one I would prefer to do. My answer “both of them”, lol!

Later, I stopped by my agents’ office and spoke to everyone and they said that the CD of “Texas Lottery” spot was being really cool about the potential conflicting situation. That’s great because these are the two commercial casting directors that call me in the most frequently. I would love to book both spots and it’s very possible.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hRX79E75yA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMXinr1N9w

Audition: "Bud Light" @ Alyson Horn Casting. This one was fun and I think I'm right for it. I’m going through an interesting transition for commercial auditioning and it’s going to take some getting used to. Nevertheless, I think this one went well.

Not that I think it really matters, but I remembered to cross out the last line on my resume that says "I've never had alcohol in my life". Why give them a reason to not call me back for the “Budweiser” commercial?

In the second part of the audition I was to sit at a bar with a beer in hand. That always feel so weird to me because I feel that it’s obvious I’ve never drank a beer before. I try to hold it like “one of the boys”, but it feels so foreign to me. Sometimes I wish I drank alcohol ‘cause it looks so damn cool. Ya know, yell to your roommate “bring back some cold Bud Light!”…maybe not since I don’t have a roommate. Drinking beer might be one of those things that I never experience...

After leaving the audition I figure I'd call my commercial agency to see if I can go straight to callbacks for the audition I missed yesterday. I figured it was a long shot, but worth a try - what do I have to lose? The assistant at the agency said he’ll call me right back and 7 minutes later he delivered the good news. Cool, I got an appointment for the callbacks this afternoon.

Callback: “Texas Lottery” @ Craig Colvin Casting. It went great! At least I think it went great. The spot is pretty funny too. I have never booked for this office, but I have a decent callback/avail ratio. We’ll see what happens.

Great! A couple of hours later I get the call that I’m on avail for the “Texas Lottery” spot. Then, shortly after that I get word that I have a callback for the “WaMu” spot tomorrow morning.

This could get interesting – an avail for “Texas Lottery” and a callback for “WaMu” with possible travel and conflicting dates. I’ve already accepted the avail, but an avail is a courtesy and not a legal, binding contract. My availability can change at any time. I’m really just thinking out loud because I haven’t even gone to the “WaMu” callback yet, but being a veteran of sticky situations I know how quickly things can get - sticky.

I bring this up because often times I hear actors say “I’m on hold for a commercial” which is almost never the case. More correctly, they are on avail. A “hold” and “an avail” are two totally different things. Truly being “on hold” is akin to being on the payroll – an “avail” is not.

I explained this to my “Perfect Storm” client who recently booked two weeks on a pilot. The first week she was only scheduled to work one day, but I told her she is in “first position” to that production company for the entire week unless other stipulations have been made in her contract. Basically, they own her, lol!

I went over what SW (Start Work), W (Work), H (Hold), WF (Work Finish) and SWF (Start Work Finish) mean on the call sheet. Sure enough, after working the first day they ended up needed her the next day as well. I said, “Did they ask you if you can work tomorrow?” or “Did they tell you that you’re working tomorrow?” She said, they "told her she’s working tomorrow”. These differences in terminology aren’t usually a big deal, but when they matter, they matter a lot. I used to say “things usually work out for me” quite often, but that doesn’t seem so much lately. I think the tide is turning for me and ’08 is going to be incredible.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hRX79E75yA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMXinr1N9w

I knew this was going to happen sooner or later and I told myself that I’m just not going to worry all that much about it. I’ve always been very available to audition during the day without conflicts – unless it was other auditions. But now some of my days are occupied with training or working. That means I’m going to miss some auditions – I had the talk with my agents and they are very understanding of the situation.

So today I missed my first commercial audition in 9+ years due to working on something other than an acting project. I thought I was really, really right for it too – and it shoots out of town. I’m overdue for another first-class flight somewhere and a 5-star hotel stay. It certainly isn’t in my personal budget. The only times I’ve ever been abroad have been because of commercials. I’m also really overdue to book at this particular office – crazy overdue.

Funny, I have a friend that I consult and she was going to take a commercial course with a particular teacher. I didn’t have a problem with that teacher, but I thought it would be smarter for a couple of reason to study with this casting director/teacher instead. He has since cast her in 3 commercials and brings her in pretty regularly. He brings me in regularly too, but I haven’t booked squat – never – not yet.

Actually, I ended up breaking even for the day because I got a same-day appointment for a different commercial that was fun and went pretty well. Six of one; half a dozen of another…

Audition: “WaMu” @ Ross Lacy Casting. OMG! I had to learn a dance number for this with a choreographer. I suck at dancing; I mean I truly have two left feet. I can learn steps, but it takes me longer than most and even then I look crazy stiff. Eventually, when I get the moves “in me” and I start looking like Usher! Not really; maybe more like Pusher.
Anyway, me and the other two dudes were supposed to have women auditioning with us, but it was right before lunch and no women were there. I think if I had to do those moves with a woman somebody would’ve gotten hurt. Nevertheless we had fun and I think the choreographer was pleased.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hRX79E75yA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMXinr1N9w

Wow. I didn’t have one audition all last week. That isn't totally alarming, but I usually have something going on anyway. Actually, I had a ton going on and not having a single appointment was quite welcoming for my psyche. It enabled me to concentrate on some other things I’ve been doing – namely training. When I get into something I can be like a mad man – for better or for worse.

I have to say that it feels great to be busier and have more things to do during the day. I was starting to feel really lazy. Sure, my schedule is going to get even more hectic, but I welcome it. I get more done when I have more to do. A lot of things that are supposed to happen are happening in my life I think. Much of it very quietly, behind the scenes and internally.

For years I’ve spent numerous hours behind the wheel of my car driving around doing drop-offs. It’s funny, because when I first started doing them many thought it was a waste of time. I was cool with that notion, but I knew I had to do what I had to do. I had a plan that even I didn’t understand at times, but I remained faithful to it – whatever it was.

The plan worked exactly as it was supposed to, but now it’ll take a different shape in order to keep moving forward into ’08 and beyond. I needed to shift gears; part of that strategy is to bring my agents more into the fold. My agency relationships that have been maturing for almost 10 years are going help “Project Stephon” move forward. I’m more excited than I’ve been about being in LA than I have been in a long time – even with all of the industry turmoil going on.

The key for me is to not simply work harder, but to work smarter – then work harder. Hope I can pull it off…

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hRX79E75yA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMXinr1N9w

Callback: "McDonald's" @ Maryclaire Sweeters Casting. This was a "straight to callbacks" dealio, but it seemed more like an "allback" session. It looked they called "all" of them from the first session plus more. There were SO many people there. I'm not complaining; it's better to be on the callback tape than not...and I felt that it went well.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hRX79E75yA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMXinr1N9w

Audition: "Progressive Insurance" @ Ross Lacy Casting. I happened to be in the right place at the right time to get this one.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hRX79E75yA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMXinr1N9w

Stephon Fuller talent scout? I don't know about all that, but the kid definitely has an eye for what can work and why - in many situations - entertainment business or not. Agenting and managing has definetly crossed my mind. Actually, I thought about managing before I ever pursued acting.

Anyway, remember that "Perfect Storm" of a client that I consulted earlier this year? The one I pitched to my theatrical agents and they immediately signed her? Honestly, I've consulted numerous very talented actors but the element of youth AND the ability to play 4-6 years younger than her age made the "Perfect Storm" quite unique.

She doesn't have a lot of credits, but enough to say that she's been to the "Big Show". Her youth also makes it a little more okay that she doesn't have a lot of professional credits. It just really added up to an easy sell...at least "in theory". She may not have thought so because at the time we met she'd been in Los Angeles for several years, but never having the proper guidance.

During our initial meeting I felt that with the right opportunities the "Perfect Storm" would book jobs & make money - quick. I felt all that within 10 minutes of meeting her and at that point I had never even seen her work...it was just a feeling...a strong feeling.

So here we are; eight weeks after signing with the agency (the exact time-frame I projected) and she booked her first job. I figure, "hey if I can't bring in money for the agency I'll bring them someone else who can!"

So what did "The Perfect Storm" book? A guest-starring role in a pilot that works for two weeks. Yeah! Needless to say I'm ecstatic about the news. And yup, she's playing quite a bit younger than her actual age.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hRX79E75yA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMXinr1N9w

What a week…or more like 10 days. My mind is so twisted that I feel like I'm going absolutely crazy. The 5 year anniversary of my mom's death and her birthday were recently and I'm filled with emotion. That's nothing new. The problem is that it won't overflow and come out.

Usually, during this time of the year I'm either okay or a basket-case...for a moment, hours, days or a couple of days - or anything in between. This time I feel like I'm in a haze. Kinda like drunk driving - not that I've ever done that. Ya know how when you have to sneeze, but when it's time to actually do it; the sneeze won't come out? That's the way I've felt for the last week or so. I feel like I'm ready to cry like a baby, but I'm only 96.1120% of the way there...the other 3.888% is killing is me.

I am guilty of privately balling like a kid in a few movies lately. It didn't have much to do with the films themselves; there were just some parallels that have conjured up what I went through in '02 and '03 when my mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. It's tough to say the least; I miss my mother more than words can describe. My mind has been so glazed over that I actually fell down the stairs yesterday coming out of my building. Yeah, seriously. Do you know how many times I've walked down those stairs over 9 years? Thousands of times, but this time I missed the last step, fell, scraped my knee and twisted my foot. I had my PDA and cell phone in my hand and fortunately didn't break them. That wouldn't have been good.

In my experience the loss hasn’t gotten much easier, it just changes. No, I’m not a basket-case on a daily basis – far from that, but often times I feel like an orphan. I wish I could have shared some of my successes with her. She would have been thrilled to know that I worked with Steven Spielberg – he directed “The Color Purple” one of her favorite films. I mean, I’m sure she knows, but I would have like to talk to her about it. She was a funny lady and I miss her everyday.

It’s been quiet business-wise lately; so to get through with my sanity intact I’ve kept myself extremely busy with editing my demo reel and other stuff. I’m really enjoying the editing and other things I’ve been into recently. I just wish I understood the programs a little more. I’ll just keep working at it.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hRX79E75yA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMXinr1N9w

Print go-see: "Motorola" @ Catherine Eng Casting. Quick-fast. In and out. 3 digital stills and I was on my way.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hRX79E75yA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMXinr1N9w

Audition/Producers/Tape: "Journeyman" @ UDK Casting. My agent called with this appointment and we had "the talk"; the talk about whether or not to pass on it. We weighed the pros and cons and decided that we'd go in on it.

The first two times I was called in this season for this show were for guest-starring roles - this is a co-star. It's one of those roles that I'm trying to graduate from from a "career standpoint", but from an "actor standpoint" I'd usually rather be auditioning for a chance to work than not. No worries; I ain't trippin'. I used to be so good at booking the small co-star roles, but lately not so much. The good thing is that I've had more appointments for more substantial roles and they are going well. It's great to be able to have these conversations with my agents.

Another reason to go in is that this is the last script that “Journeyman” has because of the strike and it's unknown if they will be getting a back 9 pick-up order. So I'll try to get what I can while I have a chance to get it.

Funny enough, I hadn't read for this particular casting director for 3 years and this call was the 3rd appointment in 6 weeks.

http://www.stephonfuller.com/consultations.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hRX79E75yA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMXinr1N9w

Audition/Producers/Tape: "Scribble" @ CHM Casting. This one went great! The two co-directors and writer were there and I did exactly what I wanted to do and more. I don't know if I'll be considered for the role, but that doesn't matter. I was very, very happy with what I left in the room.

For me, it can be weird auditioning for a casting director that I also work as a reader for, but this time it was "smoove like butta"...and I have crashed and burned in that type of situation before.

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

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hRX79E75yA

Airing: Tuesday, November 13th "Bones" 8pm on FOX - please check your local listings.

Wow! I was out at Universal picketing in support of the WGA on the strike lines today and I don’t think I’ve ever seen that many celebrities in one place at a time. I saw quite a few people I’ve worked with in the past. I actually spoke with Ken Jenkins from “Scrubs”, David Kohan – showrunner “Good Morning, Miami”, John Amos – “The District” and Jere Burns also from “GMM”; he introduced me to Patricia Heaton. Generally, I’m not a star-struck person, but this felt more like peers in a professional sense. I guess that’s a good thing. Now that I think about it maybe I am a little star-struck when I go to the dirt bike races and see the riders do their thing up close.

Anyway, I hope this strike thing gets settled with a fair and equitable deal soon…very soon. This is a far reaching thing for very average working people just trying to make a living. I know because I’m one of them.

Cool! My scene on "Bones" aired as it was written. You never in these situations – and if there anyone who knows it’s me! I think I know a little too well. Obviously I did ADR so that told me that they were at least planning on using my stuff at that point. BUT! I don’t believe it until I see it. It is what it is and it ain’t what it ain’t….until it is…

I didn’t totally believe I was in it until I started getting calls from the East Coast and even then that was because they saw my name in the opening credits. Even that didn’t guarantee how much or little of the actual work they used. My little brother called from Virginia and just laughed so I couldn’t tell anything from that dude. I’d have to wait two more hours.

I must say I say was pretty happy with the results and they didn’t cut any of the scene. Within minutes of it airing I was already editing my demo reel. I’ve never had a demo reel before. I never thought it was that important for my particular situation so I waited until got they type stuff I wanted to showcase. I mean I could have cut one years ago with what I had, but I wanted to make sure it “furthered my cause” and was a legitimate tool for me and my representatives.

I felt it was smart for me to wait until I got “an anchor” before I put something together. That strategy fits better with “where I’m headed” versus “where I’m at”. So this “Bones” one hour drama piece coupled with my “Love, Inc.” half-hour multi-camera piece goes together really well.

I’m not an editor by any means, but I am looking forward to the challenge of trying to put something together on my own. I have a sincere interest in this technical side of the business. So I’ll cut something rough for my agents and go from there.

The strategy will probably be to have a one hour drama clip, a half-hour comedy clip and a 2-minute hybrid for my agents. And for me? I’ll have a “Long Ass Demo – Extended Mix” for my ego.

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

Another Callback: “FedEx” @ Kathy Knowles Casting.

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

Audition: “Mr. Clean” @ Craig Colvin Casting. This went really well and was weirdly fun.

Audition: “Lays” @ Jessica J. Casting. This one went great too! The woman I was paired up with as ‘My Boo” was so unbelievably sweet and hot. You would think I’d be used to it by now. But women are something else; especially friendly, smart ones. I hope I get a callback on this one.

Callback: “FedEx” @ Kathy Knowles Casting. Another really great one for today! That’s 3 in a row. The director was in the room via satellite from New York. I couldn’t see anyone except for him. I believe this shoots in New York. I left there without any connection to actually booking the job. It seems like it’s been so long since I’ve booked anything that I just go to the audition and don’t really imagine getting a call saying that I’ve been booked. That might be a good thing – I don’t know what works anymore – used to think I did, LOL!

As soon as I got home from the “FedEx” callback there was an email notice informing me of another callback tomorrow afternoon – For “FedEx” – same place – same casting director. …hmmm, I wonder how that happened. Oh well, I’ll be there that’s for sure.

I also got a direct call from a casting director for a theatrical audition for next week. Cool, I spoke to her for a bit and asked her to also call my agents.

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

Audition: “UPS” @ Ross Lacy Casting. “Not so much” on this one. It was a little weird and I know exactly why – I’ll have to get used to it and get out of my head about it. Callbacks are tomorrow and I don’t think I’ll be getting an invite.

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

It's official - the Writers Guild of America (WGA) contract has expired and it looks there will be a strike. I have no idea what the outcome will be, but the strike is something that I'm very much in support of. For starters, the DVD/home video residual formula is in serious need of fixing and the trend toward downloading media is just the beginning of what’s to come. I don’t know how long the WGA strike will last, but I felt it could come to this a long time ago. I experienced the commercial strike in 2000 and that was brutal. I spent time walking the picket lines in 2000 and plan to do the same in support of the writers as well. This is potentially just the beginning of what could be a very contentious 12-18 months ahead for the entertainment industry. The Directors and Actors Theatrical contract both expire June 30th ’08 and the Actors Commercial contract expires October 31st ‘08. It’s funny because sometimes people outside the industry don’t think this is a real industry and a real way to make a living. I’d say a strike is pretty real…what to do, what to do.

I figured out a while ago that I was going to get a job for several reasons – to earn money, to keep my mind active while learning something new, to earn money, to meet new people, to earn money etc. I’m REALLY excited about it too! Ain’t no stinkin’ strike gonna slow me down! I just have to alter my game a little. So, the strike is coming and so is the first day training for a new position. It felt like the first day of school! I was a nervous wreck at times, but I handled things pretty well I think. We’ll see how it works out as far as scheduling when I have auditions – I guess I’ll cross that bridge when I get there.

Audition: "ING" @ Craig Colvin Casting. It went okay I guess, nothing special. Even if it was “special” that doesn’t necessarily mean anything at all.

After being out all day training and settled in for the evening; I checked my email and saw a message that caught my eye. Why, you might ask? It had the word “FREE” in it. It was a free preview of August Wilson’s “The Piano Lesson” – tonight; and it starts in 90 minutes. I had never seen an August Wilson Play and one of the leads is Ben Guillory – artistic director of the Robey Theatre Company. Ben directed the last play I was in, “For the Love of Freedom Part III: Christophe” and a staged reading of “A Soldier’s Play” by Charles Fuller. I really enjoy his work and have had great experiences working with him. So I decided to go to the preview at the last and really enjoyed the performance.

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

My interview for the Everything Acting Podcast has been posted. It was done by phone so the quality isn't the greatest, but it can still be heard with no problem. The podcast has 60+ interviews and is quite informative; I was honored to be asked to be a part of it. Rosalyn Coleman-Williams and Darbi Worley do a great job with passing information to actors all over.

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

Audition: Best Buy" @ Ross Lacy Casting. Yes! This went really well so maybe I’ll get a callback.

Audition: "FedEx" @ Kathy Knowles Casting. Another good one today. Funny spot. I’ve booked through both of these offices in the past and have a pretty good callback ratio for them too.

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

Audition: "cars.com" @ Jacob Casting. Ehh…this goes okay…I guess. For some reason I was acting all anxious and stuff; like I had had a cup of coffee. Obviously, I’ve never had a coffee in my life so that wasn’t it. There was definitely some good points to the audition so we’ll see what happens.

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

I've been officially consulting for just over a year now and it's been pretty cool. I've met a lot of talented, motivated, charismatic performers that are looking for alternative ways to move forward in their careers. I've even run into a few of them at auditions...for the same role I was reading for....BACK OFF!!! j/k.

What I really enjoy about consulting on "The Business of the Acting Business" is that I truly feel I have something to offer actors who are looking for a better understanding of how things operate in Hollywood. The coolest thing has been truly having a fresh approach that is always evolving. Some may say it’s “thinking outside the box". I say, "What box? I ain't got no stinkin’ box”. When most are looking left; I'm looking right. For some reason my natural way of thinking is to start from the opposite end of the masses and work backward. I don’t know where that started but I’ve been wired that way for as long as I can remember – for better or for worse.

The hard part about consulting is that I want all of the great things that have happened for me to happen for my clients...right away. I know that isn't realistic, but I also know that some of them will rise to heights I can only dream of.

I had a great consultation session with a young lady early in the year. She had already been in Los Angeles for several years with typical, not-so-effective representation. This happens a lot; actors arrive from other markets and float around for 2-4 years before realizing that they are not really in the game. Then, even at that point, it’s not easy to get in the game and off the sidelines.

Funny enough, her mom, who is out of state, had found my website and suggested that she book a session with me. So we sat down and I got her story of what had been happening in career, how she got to where she was, what she had done, who she knew, what she wanted to do, etc. I relayed what steps I thought she should take and she seemed to be willing to give my thoughts a try.

I have to say that even though I had never seen her work I had a great feeling about her – her confidence was beyond her young years. Not in an arrogant way, just in an “I’m really ready to do this” way. If she followed one particular suggestion I felt that we might cross paths again; if not I wished her the best. She seemed very pleased after our one hour pow-wow and I said to her “today is the first day of the rest of your career”.

Over the next several weeks she stayed in contact and had questions about some of the suggestions we talked about. I made it clear to her that it was “imperative” that her representation situation be fixed and that she had to let people know that she existed in the TV/Film world of casting. She had a few credits; so she wasn’t at all totally green, she just needed to fully get on the playing field. I know; easier said than done. She is also looking forward to performing in commercials and I particularly liked her attitude about them.

She is a young woman who can play even younger and youth will almost always be an edge in this town. At the same time, women in general, have a shorter window of opportunity so this time is of “vital importance” in a career sense.

So weeks turned into months and every time we spoke she was “trying to make something happen”. She used my name at my commercial agency and they requested her tape, but it didn’t go any further after it was determined that she’d be a direct conflict with an existing client.

I was suggesting other agency names that I thought might be worth a try commercially and theatrically with no success. I’m not totally up the “who is who” in the agent sector because I’ve been with the same agents since arriving in Los Angeles and have never been in the hunt. Then about a month a half ago my theatrical agency was looking for interns and I suggested she apply. It wasn’t a meeting, but it could at least get her in the door and I felt that if they met her they would see the potential I saw. I’ve met so many with potential, but her “ace in the hole” was her youth and being able to play younger. That coupled with maturity, some credits, being a SAG member and an interesting look and energy. If any one of those ingredients weren’t in place it would have greatly changed things from my perspective. At the very least interning would give her a birds-eye view into how a theatrical agency like SCAW operates.

By the time she called about the internship the positions were already filled, but they said they would put her on the list. Then a couple of weeks later the agency called and asked if she was still available to intern. She kept me posted every step of the way, which was key, on what was going on and once while we were talking on the phone my agent called to give me an appointment. I let it go to voicemail, but when I called back to confirmed the appointment I did the unthinkable.

I pitched her to my agent.

I only say “unthinkable” because I have so much respect for what my agents do and they have the same respect for my professionalism as a client. This young lady would be representing me and my taste and I don’t take that lightly. Sure, many actors have used my name in mailings to my agents over the years, but this was different.

It was totally unrehearsed and not easy, because I had to explain a name change and a hair color change that very much conflicted with the photo on the imdb. My agent asked for her name; I gave her both names and she wrote it down. The last thing you want is a dirty, murky pitch, but I spoke fast and clear to keep her interested. The funny thing is that Caleigh immediately responded to her name; she liked the ring of it. But I figured that she wrote it on a post-it or something and I didn’t want it to get buried or lost and lose the energy of the pitch.

So right away when I confirmed that I received the sides for my audition I included the young actors’ imdb listing so Caleigh could simply click on it. Caleigh responded within minutes that she may be a conflict, but she’d think about it. She was saying that she’d be a conflict because she was a blonde in the imdb photo, but now she’s red-head.

I knew that would happen and I was ready.

I responded right back that she doesn’t look like the photo on the imdb listing anymore and actually has an entirely different look and feel as a red-head. Caleigh responded back and asked if I had a photo of her with the current hair color. I said the photo will be dropped by the office tomorrow morning.

Cool, she might be interested.

Back in the huddle with the young actress we discussed how to move forward. Sure, I could have just forwarded her Actor Access profile to my agent, but I wanted the young actress to go to the office in 3-D. Plus, I wanted her resume to look different. Because I knew that if Caleigh happened to be in the lobby and saw her energy and look she’d be interested in knowing more about her – at least I thought so. At this point, I’m in neck deep trying to hook this up and feeling quite anxious about it. I’ve never done this before.

So the next morning the young actress drops her package by the office – including her demo reel. She doesn’t see Caleigh. After my audition I called Caleigh to tell her how it went and after discussing that she says, “Oh my God, you’re friend is adorable. I love her hair, she does look totally different. I’m gonna watch her reel during lunch”.

YES!!!

I call the young actress and we both are ecstatic. I caution her that this may not go much further, but already she likes your name, hair color and vibe/feel, plus I think she respects my opinion.

Boom! The next day the young actress got an email for an appointment. The day and time were set, but then a few days later it was changed because 1 of the 3 agents wouldn’t have been able to make it. I thought that was good news because it showed me that Caleigh wanted everyone to meet her.

So I and the young actress discussed a bit about what she might expect when she arrives, which agent was which and what they looked like. The meeting was at 4pm and by 4:12pm it was over and she was already on the phone with me. “Wow, that was quick”, I thought. I could hear in her voice that she didn’t feel so great about the meeting because it went so quick and they didn’t really leave her with much to get a feel of where she stood. No “Call us Monday afternoon” or “We’ll be in touch”. She just basically said “Thanks and have a good weekend”.

…tick-tock-tick-tock…

I painted some scenarios of what it could mean from “you’re a direct conflict” to “we like her and wanna sign her; there’s no reason to talk for 30 minutes if we already know what we’re gonna do”. So this was Friday evening and we were both prepared for the waiting game – over the weekend. Admittedly, we both were a little deflated.

I didn’t really know what to make of it because it was kind of foreign territory for me, but I feel that this young lady is a “perfect storm” waiting to happen. I went back in my head, point-by-point, and asked myself why I went out on a limb for her. Again, it all made sense to me – it all added up. If any one of those elements were missing the pitch probably wouldn’t have happened – at least not from me.

The young actress called me 90 minutes later with the message from the agency that said, “Xxxxx we all think you’re adorable and would love to represent you….”

YES!!!!!!!!!!

The message had been sent shortly after she left the office. So, yeah they made their decision right away and didn't need too much convincing. I felt they were already 75-85% of the way before they even met her in 3-D. She had been pitched by a respected client, Caleigh liked her name, her hair choice, her demo reel, her energy all before meeting her in the flesh. It all made sense.

That was great to hear we are both really excited about her future. I am so proud of her for hanging in there and participating in her success. I have to say that if she didn’t pursue the internship I don’t think I would have pitched her. That may sound weird, but I know how my mind works. In hindsight she was being tested by me, but even I didn’t know it. I can only see the tests by looking back; I never saw it looking forward.

So needless to say, we’ve been in contact everyday since the great news through the transition from the old agent to the new one and exciting things are already happening. Again, my name and taste is on the line and, thus far, she’s making me proud. Mostly, it’s that there are things she doesn’t know and/or hasn’t experienced yet and she won’t hesitate to ask for help. I really have a great feeling about this.

It almost makes me feel that I have a little influence in this town, but I’m not that silly…

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

Audition: “Summer’s Eve” @ Lien/Cowan Casting. OMG! This went really, really well. My “wife” in the spot was stunning to say the least. Before we auditioned we made some small talk in the lobby. Then the session runner brought me, her and the others in for a group explanation.

So when it was our turn to audition, we were digitally photographed, slated our names and ACTION! I was sitting in a chair and “Ms. Thang” turned it ON! I felt her hands on my shoulders and damn-near went numb, LOL! In the spot she’s trying to convince me to get changed and ready to leave so she kneels down and whispers “sweet nothings” in my ear. I turned my head to look in her eyes and felt that I could look at her for the rest-of-my-life. What’s my line? I DON’T KNOW! I didn’t have any scripted lines I just responded to the …feeling. That happened to me once before on a shoot. Yeah….and that was just the first part.

The second part was a different set-up, but the same type of action. How many times have I fallen in love at an audition? I don’t know. Not too many times, but “Ms. Thang” worked it this morning and was really sweet, polite and funny to boot.

ADR "Bones". Great! I guess this means I’ll be in the final edit of the show, plus I’ll get another payment for my time. I arrived at the scoring stage at FOX studios right on time to watch the previous actor match his dialogue. While I was waiting one of the series regulars, Michaela Conlin, arrived for her ADR session as well. Since she was still shooting I let her go first so she could get back to set – we each only had one line to do. Plus I was chatting with the ADR Engineer about Post Production. He was explaining a ton of stuff about the process.

So, in flash, Michaela was finished and I stepped on the stage. They gave me the line of dialogue and then played it. It was great to see my close-up on the big screen – yeah! They played it a couple of times so I could match the intensity of the dialogue.

So now we were ready to record. Something that works for me when I do looping is to NOT look at the screen; just listen to the 3 beeps. The beeps came in and BAM!!! I hit it...there was silence from the engineer next to me. He looked back to the engineer in the control room and said “That was perfect!” They both looked at me like I was a genius. In reality, I was just lucky. I just happened to nail that one. It was so perfect that we almost didn’t even do a second one. We did decide to do a second and it was almost as good. He asked me if I was in a loop group. I said “no” and that are like a best kept secret. But I asked him if he knew of any connections to them. I gave him my card just in case. So I signed out and headed straight back to the Head engineer to continue our conversation about “The Process”.

He showed me a bunch of other stuff about how the computers work and I, being the curious one that I am, knew enough relevant questions to show him that I was really interested. I gotta tell ya, I was freakin giddy about hearing what he was telling me. I think I’d LOVE post-production work. So he gave me his card and invited me to come back to the studio if I wanted to learn more. I gave him my card as well. He’s extremely accomplished and has worked on well over 100 TV and Film projects. I think I’m gonna check him out and learn some more about it.

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

Audition: "Orville Redenbacher" @ Deborah Kurtz Casting. This was quick-fast; in and out as an "emotional talk-show audience member".

Audition/Producers: "My Name is Earl" @ Dava Waite Casting. This went really well. CD Dava, associate Kari Kurto and Jayme Singer always greet me warmly so we’ll see what happens. I really feel my foundation firming up around town. Sure, I’ve got a long way to go, but I’ve come a long way too.

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

Audition/Producers: "Journeyman" UDK Casting. It went okay I guess. I got caught up in some of the "mime/don't mime" stuff and I never truly committed to either. I should have known better. I wasn't too bad, but still. Who knows I could still be in the running for the role.

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

Well, well, well….. What a difference a day makes. I got the call this evening for the show that Caleigh and I had been trying to get in on. She said they were just waiting to bring me straight to producers rather than pre-reading. That’s cool; but I don’t have a problem with pre-reading in general. This is great though because it starts me in a much smaller pool of actors being considered for the role.

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

Audition: "Budweiser" @ TLC/Loree Booth Casting. Eh...it went okay. I wasn’t really connected to the dialogue…I don’t know why. For some reason I don't think it'll have much to do with whether I'll be placed on avail or not. I think I’m right for it and it's a Joe Pytka-directed spot. He doesn't usually have callbacks. But what do I know; the last commercial I did was a year ago. A whole freakin year without a booking? Geez, that needs to be fixed....and soon.

On to other things; I called my agent this evening about a role she was trying get me seen for in a major TV casting office. We'd spoken about it a couple of days ago and I was following up. This is what they told her; "We know Stephon and if he's right for anything we'll absolutely bring him in".

What? I wasn't sure how to take that news at first because, although I read for this casting director just a month ago, before that it had been 3 years. Yes, 36 months. The confusing thing was that they made it seen like it was a "no-brainer" that they'll bring me in. I guess that makes sense if they are starting from me getting a callback last month, but from my viewpoint I'm thinking “1,100 days!"

Anyway, I quickly came to my senses and realized that this is a great position to be in - especially in this office.

So back to the specific role; it wasn't looking like we were going to get the appointment. That's okay; I got great news for the long-term health of my career in that particular, very important TV casting office.

Actually, there's another show in that same office that's Caleigh is trying to get me an appointment for. It's not the same casting director, but I know the associate from meeting her in a CD workshop. The report is that they haven't started seeing people yet. Caleigh says that she'll just keep calling.

So, what's the score? Two roles, zero appointments and a freakin rock-star of an effective agent that I have great, transparent communication with = priceless. Go Caleigh!

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

Audition/Tape/Producers: “TiMER” @ CFB Casting. Cool. I’ve booked a couple of times through this office in the past and would love to do it again. The audition with went great! I'm not usually overly talkative in an audition situation, but this was a little different.

I entered the room with casting director, Michael Nicolo, and there sat two, really cute, young ladies. I had done a little research and I’m guessing that they were the writers/producers/director. I had a quick question which set a few jokes in motion which warmed me up and got rid of any nervous energy. The humor went over well partially because, I think, they are very new to the business in a professional sense and therefore "more normal" – maybe recent film school grads.

Anyway, the read went great; regardless of the outcome and that’s a good thing. It's less about getting the job and more about doing good work; although it would be great to actually get a job once in a while.

Afterwards I went to the premiere of "The Darjeeling Limited" at AMPAS on Wilshire Blvd. Oh my God! I cannot freakin imagine what it must be like to be a full-fledged celebrity or "hot" or "flavor of the month" or even remotely hot. It has to be one of the weirdest, unnatural things in the world to experience first hand. I mean I've worked with plenty of names over the years, but being in the fishbowl has to be a whole different world. Just the sight of the red carpet made me uncomfortable...like seriously...and I didn't even walk on it. There were so many photographers taking photos...bizarre.

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

Audition: "Audi" @ ASG Casting. Alright, this was pretty funny. I had a feeling this was going to go well because I pulled up to a parking meter that already had 1:02 on it. That's good right? Besides, I'm loving the Valley these days; well, as much you can love living in crazy-ass LA. It seems like I drive "over the hill" everyday for one reason or another.

So I'm sitting, waiting my turn to audition and I noticed a woman with her son. The little guy was about 3 years-old and he was wearing a black "Black Sabbath" tee-shirt. Actually, the shirt looked like it was a woman’s shirt; maybe his mom’s. You know how girls/ladies will cut a regular tee shirt into a "super-sexy rocker-chick tee-shirt"? Well that's what this shirt looked like. I wasn't alarmed, I just thought it was...interesting that a 3-year old kid was wearing a black "Black Sabbath" tee-shirt that had been modified to be a "super-sexy rocker-chick tee shirt". I know, I know weird...hey it was just something I noticed.

Anyway, after a few moments two names were called to audition next - mine and the mother of the 3 year-old boy who was wearing the "super-sexy rocker-chick tee shirt".

So I immediately looked over to see if she was going to bring ‘lil man into the room with her.....

Let me explain; I had looked over the boards and the copy of the commercial and we were to portray husband and wife and there was a part where there would naturally be some intimacy - ya know, “American” commercial intimacy - not “European” commercial intimacy. Trust me; there's a difference. I experienced a little bit of it Spain…in a commercial….yeah, in a commercial….

Oh no, 'lil man is coming in the room.

See, the reason I was a concerned was because I didn’t know how ‘lil man would handle seeing his mom being treated like “my boo”. I, admittedly, haven’t been so great at treating anyone like “my boo” in recent times, but “BACK IN THE DAY!” I was pretty charming. Actually, I’m working on regaining that spark.

He’s just a kid; is he going to really understand that his mom is “working” and not “cheating on daddy” with some random Black man in a room with a camera? At first, I was like “I can’t trip this kid out by putting my hands on his mom”, but then I started thinking that I wanna get a callback for this commercial and I can’t really let ‘lil man get in the way. Maybe she shoulda left his tail in the car with a Capri-Sun and the window cracked two inches…just kidding.

I made the decision to “just go for mine”. So we slate our names and the session runner calls “action!” I do my thing as instructed then she does her thing, then the moment comes where I need to be a little “touchy feely”. I go for it; I kept it rated G for the most part, but I had to represent and keep it somewhat real, which meant putting my hands on his mom. A few seconds later I hear ‘lil man saying, in the slowest, faintest voice possible, “mommy, mommy” and right after that I hear the session runner going, also in the slowest, faintest voice possible, “ssshhhhhhhhhhh” to ‘lil man. It was completely hilarious!

So we reversed roles and did the same thing again and ‘lil man was a little better, but still quite confused. I don’t know how I didn’t just burst out laughing. It was so funny. I wonder if he went home and told his dad that he met his Black dad today and he was hugging mommy.

Geez, what if we both get a callback? I say bring the kid.

Audition: "Ford" @ Ross Lacy Casting. Fun time and it goes well…they should call me back.

Audition/Producers: "Chuck" @ Patrick Rush Casting. More good stuff with this one; my agent told me I was being called in on this based on my tape from auditioning for the pilot of the show back in March. I like that because it means my name is being mentioned unbeknownst to me and that is a good thing. It’s always been really important to me to make my name more powerful than my photo. I love creating new ways to go about the pursuit of this business. I don’t know if they are right or wrong, but they work for me.

Anyway, it was smaller role, but I and my agent felt it was a good move to get back in this office; especially at this time. The read went okay, not bad. I just think I might have been a little too big, but that could work for this particular show. When I was called in the room I wasn’t quite ready because they didn’t go in the order of the sign in sheet and it threw me a little, but it’s all good.

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

This will be probably sound weird, but it’s always exciting to NOT have any auditions for an extended period of time. I look at it as the calm before the storm – maybe it’s a coping method! It’s been almost 3 weeks since my last commercial audition which is an eternity for me, but I always know that my agents @ KSA are doing their best. Honestly, I wish I “brought home the bacon“ more often for them because they definitely get me in the room plenty.

This morning I did a drop-off and put it directly in the hand of the casting associate/assistant. It’s sometimes weird because I’ve met so many people in casting over the years, but I can’t possibly remember all of them. So I’ll usually check my records before going to do a drop so I have an idea who I might run into. I prefer not to see anybody because I’m “Stealthman! doing drop-offs with stealth-like precision”. Anyway, this particular casting professional had moved from another office I’m familiar with to this office so I wasn’t expecting to see her and I couldn’t remember where I knew her from. It was a little awkward but I think I covered myself pretty well. She was really nice………and really hot!

Audition: "NFL Network" Promo @ Type Casting. On my way to this audition I get a call for another commercial audition later today on the other side of town in Studio City – cool! The audition had sides with several characters in the scene just like a theatrical audition and it went great. It’s for like 8 promo spots and the actual casting director was in the room. So hopefully this will put me on his radar and I’ll start getting called in more often from this office. Callbacks are this afternoon and I’m confident that I’ll be getting one.

Audition: "Arby's" @ Beth Holmes Casting. I had to be here before 1pm and I made it right on time. Fun spot, I’m perfect for it. Me and the other 3 guys really hit it off so hopefully some of that magic made it on the tape. One of the guys had locked himself out of his apartment in Hollywood and had to take a cab there so I gave him a ride home.

It was interesting to hear his story. I love hearing other actors’ stories and perspectives on the business. On the one hand I love hearing them because I’m nosy, curious and fascinated by how people get to where there are – no matter where that is. On the other hand it shows how different my perspective is and how instrumental it has been in my journey. I’m kinda crazy…for better or worse.

As soon as I left the audition I got the message saying I have a callback for the “NFL Network” promo I went on this morning – YES!

Callback: "NFL Network" @ Type Casting. So we arrive and I get the news that everything is totally different from the original audition. Different script, different role, different attitude, but they kept calling my character by the same name from the first audition, which was a little confusing. I decided to just kinda wing it and not worry too much – ya know, keep it fresh, lol!

So it was taking a while before they got started and I had 48 minutes on my parking meter. …tick-tock-tick-tock… So right as I was going to leave to feed the meter another casting director came out and announced that “They tow after 4pm on the North side of the street!” Right then they called my name to go in the room. I couldn’t even think! I CANNOT have my car towed. Nope, it’s not an option.

I walk in the room having absolutely no idea what was going on – AT ALL. My mind is in a fog because I wanna do well, but I’m thinking my car is being ticketed and towed. I wasn’t familiar with this part of West LA so I didn’t know if I was really in danger or not.

I hadn’t gone in for this character before and they didn’t explain ANYTHING – so I just went with it. It was confusing because it seemed like one of the other actors was reading some of my lines. The set up was we were in a bar looking at hot, sexy, sweet-smelling NFL cheerleaders on a laptop and “Aker” was one of the cheerleaders favorite player. So when the “hot, tall, sweet-smelling waitress” who was also auditioning asked “how many field goals has Aker kicked this season?” I just said “like 300”. The entire room erupted in laughter because if you know anything about football you know that kicking 300 field goals in a season is ridiculous – unless you’re in a commercial callback and the only thing on your mind is whether or not your car is being towed.

So they brought me up to speed for the second take and we did it again and that was that. I left the room and sprinted to my car 50 minutes and 30 seconds after putting 48 minutes on the meter. On my way there another actor who had gone to check on his car was sad to find that it had already been towed. As I’m running down the street I get a sinking feeling that this isn’t going to end well because I’m not seeing my car – hearbeat-heartbeat……tick-tock-tick-tock – it was further down than I thought – but safe and without a parking citation.

What a day. I went from Miracle Mile up to Hollywood for a drop-off, back to West LA for an audition, over to Studio City for another audition, returned to West LA for the callback and now to North Hollywood for a workshop – a day in the life…

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

Callback: "Cold Case" @ Shaner/Testa Casting. This is interesting and I'm loving that these things are happening more often.

I auditioned for “Cold Case” just last week. To recap - I read for the guest lead and it went well, but the CD, Michael Testa, felt I was too young. Ironically, I thought I was perfect for it – shows what I know. So he gave me another role in the episode to read, a smaller guest-star. This character was 44! So I went outside and prepared and returned to read. I felt that went well too, but as the days passed it became clear that I wasn’t going to producers. No problem, I left good stuff in the room and hopefully they'll bring me back for another role in the future.

CUT TO: YESTERDAY – DAY

My Rockstar agent, Caleigh, calls with the news that “Cold Case” wants to bring me back in for, get this, the 23 year old version in 1986 of the same character that was 43! YEAH! This is good news because it is showing me how people are seeing me as far as age range goes. After all, “how we are seen” is more important than “how we see ourselves”.

This role is smaller than the guest star and listed as co-star, but still a nice, important scene in the episode. So, my Rockstar agent, Caleigh, pushes for that since I originally came in for guest-starring roles can this co-star be made a guest-star as well, if I were to book it. There was some discussion about my quote and the answer was “yes”. I’ve always said that there is a gray area as far as billing goes and compensation goes.

So I printed the sides and literally slept with them last night – seriously. I actually woke up in the middle of the night and read them a couple of times with the light of my cell phone.

Anyway, that wasn’t even what I was talking about when referring to what has been happening more and more. What I mean is getting in the position that casting has me on their mind even when I’m not in front of them. One of my goals has always been to “get in their mouth” and this is proof that it’s happening.

So the read, on tape, went really well. I got one re-direct and handled it and that was that. The tape is going directly to the set since this episode is already shooting so a decision will probably be made today or tomorrow. Either way, I left some good stuff in the room.

Audition/Producers: "Oreska" @ Dori Zuckerman Casting. OMG! This was bound to happen. Yup, I took a dump in the room. Man did I suck - like really bad. It’s not the first time, just the first time in a while; especially coming off so many really good auditions. I just didn't connect with the character, but I didn't know it until after it was over. It’s funny because I always feel a little weird when I audition for someone that I work as a reader for. I’ve gotten several roles that way, but they have been smaller roles that I never actually read for. Either way, I was terrible. I talked to my agent about it and she was really supportive. Honestly, I didn’t beat myself up too much over it. I learned something about the type of stuff I connect to – I’m not sure what I learned, but something. It’s all good.

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

Another anniversary? Yup! 14 years ago today I attended my first acting class in Virginia Beach, VA. Who would of thought? Well, it’s not that much of a stretch to think I’d still be pursuing my career after all this time, but the reality of it trips me out from time to time.

Wow, 30+ plus commercials, 40+ TV episodics, several films, 2 international trips for work, 1,000’s of drop-offs, a couple of voiceovers, a couple of print jobs and not one single booking on a daytime soap opera later I am still here standing tall.

It's been some kind of ride to say the least and I think there is a lot of great stuff ahead for me. That doesn't mean things are perfect; trust me they aren't, but I'm much more happy than sad. I have a tremendous amount of potential to carry me through.

The thing that really trips me out is that I’ve truly made my own way at most every turn in my pursuit. I didn’t have anyone to turn to for advice and I think that was one of the best things that happened early on. Well, that’s not totally true. I did have people to turn to, but I couldn’t figure out why I should trust their judgment for my future because they weren’t doing what I wanted to do.

What I did do was a lot of listening; I didn’t ask many questions, but I listened to everything. I learned more about what didn’t make sense for me to do than what to do. Being a “Logically/Zen” thinker that is curious about how things works is what has served me the best. So here’s to the last QTR on ’07 and beyond!

On to other things; a couple of weeks ago I was interviewed for the Everything Acting Podcast. This is a really cool resource for actors at many different levels. I wanted to be familiar with the program before the interview so over the past 3 weeks I listened to every one of the previous episodes – like 54 of them. I guess that’s research huh?

It’s funny how nervous I still get when doing things like this, but I think I did okay – at least I hope so. I don’t know when mine will air, but I’ll post it when I find out.

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

Audition/Tape/Producers: "The Unit" @ Bialy/Thomas Casting. I really want to be on this show! Preferably as a soldier rolling around in the dirt. I don't know what it is about dirt, but I love being dirty, sweaty and just actually doing stuff in 3-D. Growing up I was definitely not a "house cat" playing Atari/Combat or laying on the couch; I was an "outside cat" building something, jumping something or breaking something.

I remember when I was about 4 years old in the field picking strawberries with my family and my mom had just dusted most of the dirt off of me. I went straight back to the field, gathered a fresh bag of dirt and promptly poured it over my head. I still remember how it felt – it was cool feeling. At that moment my mom knew that "there was something about Stephon....well Bryan".

Anyway, Sharon Bialy, who is a really nice lady, had me read the scene 3 times and I think I gave her what she wanted. I'm going to get on this show one day! She told me that she called me in from the drop-off I recently did.

Okay, now it's off to be a reader for "The Mall" at Dori Zuckerman Casting. Since it's a musical I'll be reading with triple threats - actor/singers/dancers - male and female. I'm really looking forward to this.

7 hours straight later.

Wow, what a long day. Always interesting, never dull and quite enlightening into the process of how films are made.

One of the more surprising things was that only one or two actors didn't have a headshot and resume. Most of them were stapled too - go figure.

Being a true triple threat is no joke - and rare to be honest; especially when you are competing with New York actors. I saw a lot of actors that also sing and move well, but that's different than a true triple threat. Some of the New York choices I saw on tape completely blew me away, but I also some super talented LA-based challengers.

There is always, always, always a fine example of what not to do in an audition. I'll keep the story to myself, but trust me it will be retold. The funny thing is that the actor wasn't bad, but the little stunt he/she pulled definitely showed that he/she was...odd.

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

Shooting: “Bones” @ 20th Century Fox Studios. I’ve worked on most of the studio lots in town, but this is the first time I’ve worked at Fox. I’ve booked on the lot in the past, but never actually filmed here.

I arrived at Stage 9 at 9am this morning and by 9:07 I was already trying on wardrobe choices for the director. It seems like the only time I get to dress really nice is when I’m working on a project! That needs to change. I’m not into labels but I do like nice quality clothing that fit me correctly. Then it was back to my trailer. Since I was the only one working besides the series regulars and major recurring players; I had a pretty nice set up. The trailer wasn’t all that large, but it was very nice and comfortable.

After a while they directed me to the hair and make-up trailer to be wigged and bearded. I was blown away by the results. I called Caleigh and couldn’t stop laughing while explaining my wig and beard to her. So, after the photographer took my photos it was “hurry up and wait”…and wait…and wait. Before they took my wig off I walked down to the casting office to show them my look. I entered the office and the two associates had no idea who I was...at all. Actually, there was a split second of weirdness until they heard my voice; that’s when they recognized me. Then they called out to the casting director and he really had no idea who I was, but was equally fascinated with my look – funny.

I also got some new assessments of my age range. In the right situation I can play mid-20’s to early 40’s without a problem – this booking proves it.

Hours later my agent called with an audition for tomorrow. It was a co-star, but she had a strategy for me going in on it after checking her records of when I last read at this office. The last time they called with an audition I passed on it – plus there was some other confusion. I liked her strategy so I agreed to go, plus I had dropped off at that office just a few days ago. I really want to get on either of their shows, plus they always have pilots.

Still in my trailer and a couple of hours away from shooting I start snooping around the set to watch the filming that was going on. When you are on a set for any length of time you can tell who is new. One of the PA’s saw me for the first time kinda looking for a comfortable place to watch the filming. He asked if I was “finding everything okay”, but he asked me in guarded sorta manner. Not at all disrespectful, but in a way that he knew I wasn’t around every week or for the entire episode. I responded that “I was just watching and I think my scene was up next”. Immediately everything changed. I told him I was playing “Darwin Banks” and right away he said “Great! Have you seen where we are shooting your scene?” I responded “No” and he offered to take me there so I could “get into the space”. Then he gave me a tour of the entire Stage 9 and even took me over to their other stage – Stage 6 and gave me a tour of that one too. It’s an incredible space.

He ended up really looking out for me for the rest of the evening – making sure I always had a place to sit and water while watching the scene previous to mine being shot. He introduced me to the writers and other actors working. I had a nice conversation with recurring character John Francis Daley about karate and motocross. I was also re-introduced to director Chad Lowe. It was great to watch the previous scene to get a feel of how the director and series lead David Boreanaz worked so I knew a little of what to expect.

I had already been to the room where my scene was to take place, but when David got there he didn’t like it and wanted to move to a different place to shoot. I happened to agree that they way the scene was written it didn’t really make sense that it would be shot in that specific room – I even voiced my opinion and supported David. So after some back and forth Chad agreed to move it to where David, who is also a producer, wanted it to be shot.

We did a couple of first team rehearsals and the scene took shape. Second team came in for camera set-up and lighting and we came back and put it together. Chad, being an actor, wasn’t shy about communicating with us and was very complimentary. I didn’t like one of the lines they had changed during re-writes and told the script supervisor that it didn’t make sense for me – so I dropped it and said it like I did in the audition.

So I wrapped after 13 ½ hours and was on my way. But not before signing out and returning my wardrobe to the wardrobe trailer myself. It seems that I am the only actor in Los Angeles that does that. The AD’s are always pleasantly surprised by that. I think I started doing that when I was on “Good Morning, Miami”. I just don’t want anyone to come in my trailer and there is stuff everywhere. I can’t promise I’ll always return my wardrobe in person, but I’ll always be a team player and respect the other departments that make me look my best.

Finally, on my way home to prepare for tomorrow’s audition and a marathon session as a reader for a film.

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

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