Paradigm Talent Agency

Paradigm Talent Agency has roots dating back to the 1992 founding of STE Representation by Sam Gores, which grew through strategic acquisitions including Shorr Stille & Associates and the Writers & Artists Agency, rebranding as Paradigm in 2004. Under Sam Gores' leadership, Paradigm grew into a legitimate competitor by focusing on independent film, music, and commercial work. The agency faced significant challenges during the pandemic, selling its music division to Wasserman in 2021 and downsizing substantially. Despite setbacks, Paradigm has restructured and continues to operate.

Today, Paradigm operates as a restructured agency focused on theatrical representation, independent film, and television. The agency maintains offices in LA and New York, though its footprint is significantly smaller than its peak years. Paradigm occupies an interesting niche with major-agency heritage and relationships but a more focused, boutique-scale operation. The agency's position makes it accessible to broader talent than the Big 4.

Paradigm is more accessible than the Big 4, though submissions generally require a referral or industry connection. The agency looks for actors with strong training, consistent credits, and professionalism. Paradigm agents attend showcases, festivals, and theater productions to discover talent. Having a manager with Paradigm relationships is valuable but not always essential.

Paradigm's departments include Talent, Theater, and Literary, focused on core areas following restructuring. The agency's dealmaking reflects strengths in independent film and quality television. Their theater department maintains Broadway and Off-Broadway relationships. Paradigm has been creative in structuring deals and works across all major networks and streaming platforms. Paradigm's client management emphasizes personal relationships and accessibility. The restructured, smaller size means agents have more bandwidth for individual strategies. Cross-departmental collaboration allows multi-platform opportunities for versatile clients. The New York office maintains strong theater and indie film relationships.

Paradigm represents actors across a range of career levels, from established character actors to rising talent in indie film and television. The agency is strong in representing consistently employed working actors. SAG-AFTRA and Actors' Equity membership is expected. Paradigm values craft and quality work, and their roster reflects this focus. Paradigm has represented numerous respected actors and filmmakers, with particular strength in independent film and character acting. Clients have appeared at Sundance, Toronto, Cannes, and other major festivals. Paradigm-represented talent has received Oscar, Emmy, and Tony nominations and wins. The agency continues to represent working professionals who book consistently.

Paradigm operates on the standard 10% commission for theatrical work. Theater commissions follow Actors' Equity guidelines. The agency is SAG-AFTRA franchised with no upfront fees. Contract terms are standard. Paradigm is known for being fair and flexible in business relationships. Paradigm offers genuine value for actors seeking representation that balances industry clout with personal attention. The agency's decades of relationships mean access to opportunities beyond most boutique agencies. The restructured smaller size means more individualized attention.

Paradigm is ideal for mid-career actors who value personalized attention and meaningful industry relationships. The agency is well-suited for actors with strong theater backgrounds, indie film credentials, or character actor careers. If you prioritize artistic quality over commercial volume, Paradigm's approach aligns with your goals. Actors exclusively focused on major studio blockbusters should probably target the Big 4. If you need extensive brand partnership and digital strategy support, Paradigm may not provide the breadth you need. Very early-career actors may find that even Paradigm requires more experience.

Build a strong body of work in independent film, theater, or quality television. The agency responds well to actors who demonstrate strong craft and passion for quality work. Attending festivals and performing in theater where Paradigm agents are present is effective. A referral from a casting director or acting teacher carries significant weight. Paradigm can serve as either a destination for career actors who value its strengths or a stepping stone toward the Big 4. Many actors build strong, sustained careers under Paradigm's representation. For actors building momentum, Paradigm provides a significant upgrade from boutique representation. The ideal time to approach is when you have a solid foundation of credits.