As a comedian, should I seek representation?

The comedy industry was shaken in December 2024 when The Junkyard, a well-known comedy management agency, suddenly closed its doors. Rising stars Aaron Chen and Sam Campbell were among the many comedians left out of pocket, highlighting the financial and professional risks performers face when managing their careers. This event raises an important question for comedians, “should you seek representation, or go it alone?“

Going It Alone

Many professional comedians, including well-established names, choose to manage their careers independently. Jack Levi, better known as Elliot Goblet, and Richard Stubbs are prime examples of comedians who have thrived while handling their own administration, bookings, and finances.

For these comedians, independence offers full control over their creative and professional choices. They set their own fees, schedule their performances, and avoid paying commissions to agents or managers. However, this route requires exceptional organisational skills and the ability to navigate the complexities of contracts, negotiations, and payments.

Independence also demands time. For comedians focused on crafting new material and refining their acts, the administrative burden can feel overwhelming. Yet, for some, the trade-off is worth the effort, offering a sense of autonomy and direct connection with their audience and clients.

Pro

• Full Control: You make all decisions regarding your schedule, fees, and gigs without needing to consult or pay an agent.

Con

• Time-Consuming: Managing contracts, chasing payments, and handling logistics can distract from the creative process of writing and performing.

Leveraging Technology: Gigme

For comedians looking to balance independence with administrative support, tools like Gigme are game-changers. Gigme provides a streamlined platform for comedians to be discovered, booked, and paid—all in one place.

The platform guarantees payment through an escrow system, ensuring that comedians get paid immediately and are not left chasing fees, as many were in the wake of The Junkyard’s closure. Gigme also reduces the administrative load by automating contracts and invoicing, making it easier for comedians to focus on their performances rather than paperwork. Big names of comedy, like Bradford Oakes, are on Gigme.

Pro

• Financial Security: Gigme’s escrow system ensures you’re paid for your work, reducing the risk of financial disputes.

Con

• Passive Reach: While useful for independent gigs, it’s relatively passive. New updates to the app however in the new year will include more push notifications to potential bookers.

Seeking Representation

For comedians seeking to scale their careers, representation with a comedy management agency can offer significant advantages. Agents like Token Artists or A-List Entertainment bring industry knowledge and connections to help comedians achieve high-profile opportunities.

Pro

• Access to Bigger Opportunities: Agents can secure television appearances, corporate gigs, and national tours that might be difficult to land independently.

Con

• Cost: Agents typically take around 25 to 30 percent of your earnings, which can be significant as your career grows.

Which Path is Right for You?

When deciding whether to manage yourself, use tools like Gigme, or seek representation, it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option:

• Do you value control over your career? Going it alone might suit your style.
• Do you want independence with less admin hassle? Platforms like Gigme offer a streamlined solution.
• Are you aiming for major career milestones? Representation from agencies like Token Artists or A-List Entertainment can open doors to bigger opportunities.

The sudden closure of The Junkyard underscores the importance of securing financial and professional safeguards in comedy. Whether you choose to go it alone, utilise tools like Gigme, or seek representation through top-tier agencies, the key is aligning your approach with your goals.

Ultimately, the best path is the one that lets you focus on your craft while building a sustainable, fulfilling career in comedy.