How it all started

Damien attends a homeschool program in a nearby town one day a week. While we were there, we met another homeschool Mom who happens to make her own educational films. She met Damien and said she could use him in her next film. This is where it all began!

School Christmas Play

She told us what we needed to do to get him started in the business. I really lucked out when my dentist told me about her daughters manager. We met with her and liked her so much, we signed on with her that day. Damien has been working ever since. They tell me he has that unique look and can pass for several different nationalities. He's also small for his age, which is an added benefit. I really like that his manager calls us to ask if Damien would like to accept a job. She is very accomodating and knows that sometimes family stuff comes up and you just have to say no now and then. When Damien did Entourage, he worked only one day when really they wanted him for five. I did worry that he wouldn't get called any more, but his manager is so great, she just keeps on calling!

If you're thinking of starting your child in the acting biz, don't think you need to spend a fortune. I suggest starting your child as a background extra. This way they can see exactly how it all works, what is expected of them, and whether they really enjoy it or not. I knew that scenes would be repeatedly filmed but Damien didn't. Actually we both thought maybe a few takes, but it's sometimes much more than that. Then there are different camera angles. Most people are nice to the kids but some can be snappy and want those kids back to their original spot as quick as they can. The one thing that surprised me is how much time each scene takes. Someone told me that for every hour of filming is 5 minutes of TV time. Can this be true?

Everybody Hates Chris - take 8

A good headshot is important but if you're starting out as an extra, don't bother. Just use a photo taken against a blank wall and it will be fine. Damien got the job with Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts from a photo I took against a wall in our house. I knew it was a war movie in Afghanistan, so I put him in old clothes and snapped away. The professional photos I did ended up costing me only $50. They have a simple white background and show Damien as he really is. Casting people often select from photos and want the child to look like the photo, so don't over dress them or tie their hair back. Let them look natural.

Photo taken at home

Once your child says they want to give acting a try, let them know that they can be on the set all day, going into school for only 20 minutes at a time and getting pulled back out for a costume change or to film a new scene. Kids need to be prepared for this disruption. My son loves being on the set and finds school is disrupting his acting! lol I like school on the set because he gets a lot of work done with the tutors provided.

Damien's manager will call us, almost any time of day. Almost every time its to work a job the following day. Once we agree that he'll do the job, we are given a call back number. This number will be called after a specific time to get details on the job. Ususally the recording will tell us what to bring, such as ID, work permits, bank information, etc and also what part he will play (school boy, bully, homeless child, etc). After this you'll get another number to call which gives specific details, such as, clothes to wear and bring with you, and directions to the basecamp. Basecamp is where you park your car and everyone meets up. Sometimes you are bussed from basecamp to the place where they will be filming.

Basecamp in downtown L.A.

Clothing is important. They may be very specific, such as "converse shoes" or it may be general, such as "wear winter clothing". You'll need a small suitcase, probably one with wheels to put several different changes of clothing in. Later on set, they will look through your outfits and tell you what to wear. Some jobs will provide specific clothing for you, so be sure to know your sizes and measurements. I found out the hard way that when they choose clothing for you, that's what you're wearing. You don't have a choice. Don't complain about it. I saw a man on one set getting so upset by the shirt they wanted him to wear, he stormed out. Of course I heard people talking about it and how they'd never invite him back to work on their set! So prepare your kids, you just never know. My son wasn't too thrilled with his very short soccer shorts but luckily he didn't feel too bad since the whole soccer team were wearing the same thing.

If you decide that this might be for your child, research the laws in your state. Get in touch with other parents of child actors online. There are some great forums for parents who are interested. We love it and I'm sure you will too!