Behind The Spotlight Chapter 76
Collin knew that reality was harsh and things might not go according to plan. There might come a time when Wyatt decides to change agents, and Collin would have no choice but to let go of his golden goose.
In this industry, big-name directors and actors could do whatever they wanted. If Wyatt wanted a different agent, then it was as good as done.
Collin hoped that scenario wouldn't happen anytime soon or preferably never. His relationship with Wyatt was currently strong and showed no visible cracks.
He suddenly remembered that Wyatt still had two more years before his contract ended, a considerable amount of time, but still ticking fast.
'Maybe I should convince Wyatt to renew his contract earlier to avoid uncertainties later… but that would make me look desperate. I sound like a gold-digger right now, worrying about her rich man leaving.'
He decided to let things flow naturally. As long as he had his golden vision for talent, he believed he wouldn't hit rock bottom, no matter what happened.
"...Collin, don't stare at me with your sharp gaze. I don't feel comfortable with you burning holes through me."
Lila adjusted her glasses with both hands, trying to hide her expression, which was slowly revealing a mixture of...
"Ah, sorry about that." Collin snapped out of his thoughts. He had been staring ahead, imagining bad scenarios.
He hadn't realized that he was looking at Lila with a sharp gaze that could easily be misinterpreted.
"You don't have to worry. ANT won't ask for a share of the profit you earned from The Accidental Wedding Crashers. I stopped the executives from doing that."
Indeed, internal politics were happening within ANT. There were many strategic power plays and self-interest in the company.
"Wait, what? I'm supposed to give you money from my side job as a producer?"
Collin had actually earned a lot from The Accidental Wedding Crashers.
"Yes, since you're part of the company. But you don't have to worry. No one will disturb your peace or make things difficult. I dealt with them personally and firmly."
"Thank you, Ma'am."
Collin said sincerely, his tone full of gratitude. Based on the global box office, his expected profit share would be around $30 million after deductions. However, that amount wouldn't arrive quickly. It would probably take two years before it made its way into his bank account, slowly and in installments.
He might need to ask the team's accountant to handle that part, as she also managed Wyatt's earnings.
Yes, the accountant Collin hired was a woman in her 30s. She was reliable, smart, and efficient in her work. She even had a talent related to her profession.
It would be heartbreaking if ANT decided to take a cut from that $30 million just because of some hidden clause… Collin already had plans for that money. He wanted to buy his sister a house once she graduated from university and began her adult life. In fact, he was considering buying her a car for her birthday this year.
If she wanted a Ferrari or Lamborghini, Collin would buy her one without hesitation.
He had no problem spending money on his loved ones. For him, family always came first. That was his nature.
In fact, Collin had once asked his mother about hiring a helper for the house, but Evelyn had disagreed, saying it was a waste of money. Especially since she was still strong and their new apartment didn't require much maintenance. She saw no point in hiring help.
"From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Ma'am."
"Just call me Lila. We're the same age, there's no need to be so formal between us." Lila smiled slightly.
"Thanks, Lila."
"That's great to hear."
Lila signed the papers and approved Collin's team without raising any objections.
"Also, I heard that SAG-AFTRA is pushing for a rule to cap the agents' commission rate at 10% across all contracts and clients. As a talent agency, we're trying to prevent that from happening because it would affect our earnings. But if SAG-AFTRA starts a boycott, we'll have no choice but to comply, for the sake of staying in business."
SAG-AFTRA, or the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, was one of the most powerful labor unions in Hollywood. It protected the rights of actors and enforced fair treatment in all negotiations.
Currently, the union was pushing for a strict cap on agent commissions at 10%, regardless of the case, even high-profile ones.
"I'll keep that in mind and start reviewing my contracts."
Collin responded. Out of all his clients, only Lawrence had a contract with a commission rate higher than 10%. It was based on terms they had previously agreed on.
If SAG-AFTRA organized a strike and stopped actors from working, the industry would have no choice but to give in. The entertainment world simply couldn't function without actors.
Honestly, Collin wouldn't mind lowering his commission for Lawrence if it helped keep the peace. Once Lawrence's latest movie wrapped, they could renegotiate the terms. Lawrence would likely be happy about it, as it meant more money for him.
"You may leave. The next time we meet, smile more. Your life is better now, no need to keep that serious face like the world's resting on your shoulders. I like it more when you smile… although I admit, your cold gaze does have its own charm."
Collin didn't pay much attention to the compliment. His mind was already occupied with work, clients, and the future of his team. He simply bid farewell and left the CEO's office with quiet determination.
Back in his office, he looked over the documents Lila had signed. He now had a copy confirming their agreement.
His team consisted of five people, including himself, each with their own role and specialty:
1. Collin East – Talent and Lead Agent.
Responsible for finding projects suited to each client's brand and skills. He negotiated contracts to secure the best deals.
2. Beatrice Yarrow – Business Manager/Accountant.
In charge of financial matters.
3. Quincy Jennings – Entertainment Lawyer.
Ensured that all contracts and deals were legally sound.
4. Paul Kim – PR Agent.
Managed public relations and the public image of clients.
5. Ian Rivers – Literary Agent.
Helped clients with scriptwriting for future projects.
These were the people Collin chose after careful consideration and background checks. Most of them had Yellow and White talents related to their professions, except for Paul Kim. Although Paul lacked talent, he had plenty of experience as a PR agent to compensate.
If a client needed other professionals, like a personal trainer or a personal make-up artist, they could request them based on their preference. Collin would find the right candidates through his network.
In fact, Collin himself was a licensed personal trainer. But it would be too time-consuming and distracting from his main work, so he declined to take on that role.
For now, these were the individuals who would represent Wyatt, Jennifer, Lawrence, and Axel in their entertainment careers. If a client wanted a personalized team just for themselves, that was possible as long as they had the status and budget to afford such customization.
It didn't take long for Collin's clients to sign the contract for representation by the new team. Wyatt, Jennifer, and Axel signed within the week. Lawrence, however, was still in Bora Bora, so his signature would take a little longer.
Jennifer requested a personal make-up artist and a nutritionist to help maintain her appearance. She agreed to pay them per session, and Collin promptly found suitable professionals for her.
The three clients agreed to pay team members based on their contributions to individual projects.
For instance, once Quincy Jennings reviewed and verified a contract with no legal traps, he would receive $5,000. It was aside from the commission share he would receive from Collin's negotiations.
Yes, this kind of setup was complicated and probably not that exciting to explain in too much detail, unless something significant happened.
Mathematics was complicated for some people, especially those who failed to grasp the basics back in elementary school... and would rather avoid it altogether. Ahem. Fuck Math.