Once Alex was settled at her house, Nancy took him to CAA the following day to officially sign him. Upon entering the CAA office, Alex looked around in excitement.
"Well, kiddo, here we are. Creative Artists Agency. Pretty impressive, huh?" she said, a hopeful lilt in her voice as she observed his expression.
"Yeah," he said slowly, his gaze sweeping over the framed photographs. "It's… a lot bigger than I imagined. All those pictures…"
NANCY: "They represent some of the biggest clients our company represents," she explained, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "And one day I wish you will be there too. Remember what I told you – just be yourself, be polite, and let your talent shine."
An assistant calls Nancy's name. She stands up, placing a hand on Alex's shoulder.
"Alright, that's our cue," she said, giving his shoulder a gentle squeeze. "Wish us luck."
Nancy leads Alex through a set of glass doors into a more private office area. Scene 2: The First Hurdle - The Audition Talk
Setting: The living room of Nancy's comfortable but modest house. A few days after Alex signed with CAA.
Nancy leads Alex through a set of glass doors into Bill Haber's office.Its a comfortably furnished office with Framed posters of television shows adorn the walls. BILL HABER is sitting behind a large desk. Bill rises from his desk, extending a hand to Alex.
Alex shook his hand, a polite smile on his face. Pleasure to meet you? he thought. He probably says that to everyone who walks in here. It felt like the kind of practiced line adults used. Still, the fact that the head of the TV department at CAA was even meeting him, a complete nobody, was surreal.
"Bill, thank you so much for taking the time," she replied with a smile on her face.
"Thank you, sir," he managed, trying to keep his voice steady.
"Please, have a seat. So, Alex," he began, leaning back slightly, his eyes appraising but kind. "Nancy showed me some of your work. You've got a natural talent, kid. A real spark. In this business, that's the foundation."
"That's the most important thing. Passion. We can work with passion. CAA, as you know, is a younger agency compared to some of the old guard," he said, a hint of pride in his voice. "But what we lack in years, we make up for in drive and a fresh perspective. While we have clients across film, television is a huge part of our focus, and it's where a lot of exciting opportunities are right now, especially for young talent."
Alex sensed the genuine encouragement in Bill's tone. He knew that at some of the older, more established agencies like WMA, a complete newcomer wouldn't get within ten feet of the head of a department. But he'd heard whispers about CAA's different approach – a culture of leveraging all their resources for their clients, no matter how new. It was about making everyone feel like they had the entire agency behind them, a strategy to foster loyalty and success.
Nodding in agreement Nancy said, "That's what we were hoping, Bill."
"Nancy believes in you, Alex. And frankly, so do I, based on what I've seen. So, here's the deal," he said, picking up a document from his desk. "We'd like to bring you on board, represent you here at CAA. Nancy will be your primary agent, guiding you through the process, setting up auditions, and helping you navigate this crazy world." He slid the document across the desk towards Alex. "This is just the standard agreement. Have a read through when you have a moment. But welcome to the CAA family, Alex."
"Wow! Thank you so much, Mr. Haber! And thank you, Nancy! This is… this is amazing." He reached for the document, a genuine smile spreading across his face.
"Just 'Bill' is fine, Alex. And the amazing part is just beginning. With Nancy in your corner and your talent, you've got a real shot. Now, the hard work starts. But we'll be here to support you every step of the way."
Alex looked down at the contract in his hands. A wide smile breaking through his initial nervousness, his eyes shining with a mixture of elation at this incredible opportunity and a newfound determination to prove himself worthy of it.