Calling All SAG Actors!

Okay, tonight is the 18th Annual SAG (Screen Actors Guild) Awards and likely, the last one with this name attached to it since both boards of SAG and AFTRA (American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) have paved the way for a merger of the two unions.  I have always loved how SAG opens the show with various celebrities stating "I am a SAG actor" and The Hollywood Reporter often asks actors how they got their SAG card during their roundtable discussions. Well, it's nice, but it excludes the majority of us who represent the union.  I, in fact, am a member of SAG, but I am not an actor.  I am an entertainment reporter and a host.  We even utilized the SAG New Media contract for The Web Files, but I have had my SAG card since 1999 during my days in NY.  I'm thinking it's time we honor the little people too, so indulge me on this idea, please.

So, here's my fun project:  Tell me how you got your SAG card in the comments section below.  I will feature all of the stories at some point this week because it is fun to see what show, commercial, or industrial gave you your official union start and that coveted SAG card.  Make sure to include your name and the link to your website. And don't worry, I will be sharing my story too.  Stand up and represent, SAG.  Let your voice be heard!  Ready, set, go!

It's All About the Sound Bite

As we turn the corner to a new year, LA turns the corner to the frenzy of Awards Season.  From the Academy Awards to the Golden Globes, SAG, DGA, PGA, DGA, and every acronym in between, there will be a red carpet every night of the week until the spring.  Now whether you are an actor or someone behind the scenes, it is always a good idea to brush up on your red carpet interview skills.  I came across a great article by Jocelyn Broder on Journalistics about "The Importance of Sound Bites".  I have harped on this topic over and over on panels and in several articles I have done this year here at Red Carpet Closet:  Publicity and Web Series, Red Carpet Interviews....Some DOs and DON'Ts, and Dos and Don'ts on the Red Carpet, The Sequel.  Check out the Journalistics article and discover how to create and deliver a sound bite.  It also gives some great examples from film and political speeches.  Do your career a favor in 2011, make yourself a sought after interview on the red carpet.

Also, I would love your feedback on any of these articles.  Do you have questions? What topics do you want to learn more about on the red carpet?  I will make sure to bring them to you in 2011 during Awards Season!