Actors Access, a Top Casting Site, Hit With Class Action Lawsuit
variety.comGene Maddaus Senior Media Writer Actors Access, the leading online platform for film and TV casting, was hit with a class action lawsuit on Wednesday, alleging that it illegally charges performers for access to auditions.
The lawsuit, filed in L.A. Superior Court, accuses the platform of predatory conduct, and of charging working actors hundreds of dollars a year for upgrades that they hope will get them noticed. “By exploiting actors’ desire to live out their dreams, Defendant has inserted itself between actors and casting directors, forcing hardworking actors into paying for the opportunity to apply for a job,” the lawsuit alleges.
The plaintiffs’ attorney, Ryan Clarkson, filed a similar lawsuit last week against Casting Networks, a major site in the world of commercial casting.
Both lawsuits accuse the platforms of operating “pay-to-play” systems in violation of California labor law. In a statement, Clarkson said he received an “outpour of support” after filing the Casting Networks lawsuit, prompting him to go after Actors Access as well. “Actors Access, a massive Hollywood institution that even predates the internet, is guilty of the samedeception – scamming actors and taking advantage of their career dreams,” he said. “It is time that theyare held accountable.” Both sites have a free tier as well as a paid subscription tier, which offers more features.
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