Gordon & French

Gordon & French is a well-established London talent agency that has been representing actors across theatre, television, and film for several decades. The agency was founded with a commitment to nurturing genuine acting talent and has maintained a respected position within the UK entertainment landscape throughout its history. Gordon & French operates from central London, positioning itself close to the West End theatre district and the major television studios that drive British production. The agency has built its reputation on longevity and consistency, maintaining strong relationships with casting directors who trust their submissions. Their approach combines traditional theatrical agency values with an understanding of the evolving demands of the modern screen-driven industry.

Today Gordon & French represents a diverse roster of actors working across all performance mediums, from West End and touring theatre productions to primetime BBC and ITV dramas, Channel 4 series, and feature films. What distinguishes the agency from larger London firms is its emphasis on theatrical craft — they are known for championing actors who have trained rigorously and who bring genuine depth to their performances. The agency maintains a manageable roster size, which allows the team to develop close working relationships with each client and provide tailored career guidance. Their clients have appeared in productions at the National Theatre, the Royal Court, the Donmar Warehouse, and the Almeida, as well as major screen projects. Gordon & French's theatrical pedigree makes them particularly attractive to casting directors working on prestige drama and stage adaptations.

Getting representation with Gordon & French typically begins with a formal submission that includes a professional headshot, detailed CV, and showreel if available. The agency reviews all submissions carefully and attends drama school showcases at major UK conservatoires including RADA, LAMDA, the Guildhall School, and Drama Centre London, where they scout for emerging talent. They are particularly receptive to actors who have completed accredited drama training, though they also consider performers with significant professional credits who are seeking new representation. The initial meeting process involves a face-to-face discussion about career goals, working preferences, and the types of roles the actor wants to pursue. Actors should be prepared to discuss their training background, recent work, and long-term aspirations.

Once signed, clients benefit from a hands-on approach where the agency team actively submits them for appropriate roles across theatre, television, film, and commercial work. Gordon & French maintains strong relationships with casting directors at major UK production companies, theatres, and broadcasters, ensuring their clients are seen for relevant opportunities. The agency provides guidance on headshot updates, showreel material, and career strategy, helping actors make informed decisions about which projects to pursue. Their team stays actively engaged with the industry through attending showcases, screenings, and industry events, keeping their finger on the pulse of what casting directors are looking for. The daily experience of being represented by Gordon & French involves regular communication about audition opportunities and proactive career discussions.

Gordon & French primarily represents professional actors at various career stages, from recent drama school graduates making their first professional moves to established performers with decades of credits. The agency has a particularly strong reputation among theatre actors, attracting performers who view stage work as the foundation of their craft while also building screen careers. Their roster includes actors who have appeared in RSC and National Theatre productions alongside television roles in series for the BBC, ITV, and streaming platforms. The agency is well-regarded among casting directors who specialize in prestige drama and theatre-adjacent screen work, and their submissions carry weight in those circles. Gordon & French's client base reflects the agency's belief that rigorous training and theatrical experience produce the most versatile and resilient performers.

Gordon & French operates on a standard UK talent agency commission structure, typically charging between 10% and 15% on theatrical work (stage, film, and television) and up to 20% on commercial engagements, in line with Equity guidelines and common London agency practice. There are no upfront registration fees, retainer charges, or administrative costs imposed on actors — the agency only earns when their clients work. Commission rates are established in the representation agreement signed at the start of the working relationship, and all terms comply with industry standards set by the Personal Managers' Association (PMA). This commission-only model ensures that the agency's financial interests are fully aligned with the actor's success. Compared to agencies that charge for headshot sessions, workshop fees, or listing charges, Gordon & French's clean commission structure is straightforward and actor-friendly.

Gordon & French is an excellent choice for UK-trained actors who view theatre as the cornerstone of their career and want an agency that shares that philosophy while also pursuing screen opportunities. The agency is particularly well-suited for recent drama school graduates from recognized conservatoires who want thoughtful, career-building representation rather than a high-volume agency that prioritizes quick bookings over long-term development. If you are primarily interested in commercial and corporate work, or if you need an agency with strong international connections for US or European co-productions, you may be better served by a larger agency like Hamilton Hodell or Conway van Gelder Grant. Actors who thrive with Gordon & French tend to be those who are patient career builders, valuing quality of work over quantity of bookings.

When submitting to Gordon & French, lead with your theatrical training and any stage credits — this is the currency that resonates most strongly with the agency's ethos. Attend their recommended drama school showcases if you are a graduating student, as these events are where the agency makes many of its initial connections with emerging talent. Once represented, maintain open communication with your agent about your career preferences and availability, as the best representation relationships are collaborative rather than passive. Keep your Spotlight profile meticulously updated with current headshots, credits, and skills, since this is the primary tool UK casting directors use to review submissions. If you are building screen credits alongside stage work, invest in a quality showreel that demonstrates your on-camera ability, as this will help your agent make the case for you in television and film casting rooms.