For many young performers, the acting industry can feel exciting, confusing and slightly out of reach all at once. There are auditions to understand, agents to approach, self-tapes to submit, and now, more than ever, social media to navigate too. In this episode of The Drama Coach podcast, Lisa is joined by Tommy Ferguson, a 19-year-old actor based in the south west of England. Tommy began acting when he was eight, starting with musical theatre, before later finding his way back into the industry through background work, modelling representation and then acting representation. Tommy speaks openly about his journey so far, including applying to agencies, booking a Super Bowl commercial, dealing with NDAs, working on a large professional set, and managing the very real pressure that can come when your work - or your face - is shared online.
Finding a Way Into the Industry
Tommy’s route into professional work was not a perfectly planned ladder. After stopping during COVID, he found his way back through filming in his local area, background roles and the connections that came from simply being present and curious. One useful part of the conversation is how practical Tommy’s early applications were. When applying to a modelling agency, he did not have polished professional headshots. His dad took simple photos of him against a plain wall, including a head shot and body shot, and Tommy added a few lines about himself. That led to an audition and interview in London, and eventually to modelling representation. Later, after seeing an acting agency opportunity on TikTok, Tommy applied and was accepted. He now has separate representation for modelling and acting, which leads to an important reminder for performers and parents: always check whether an agency is sole or non-sole, and make sure any representation arrangements can work alongside one another.
Knowing Your Boundaries
One of the strongest themes in the episode is the importance of knowing what you are comfortable with. Tommy talks about being put forward for opportunities that were exciting on paper, but not right for him once he understood what would be required. This is especially useful for young actors and parents. The industry can sometimes make performers feel that they should grab every opportunity, but Tommy and Lisa both reflect on the value of pausing before saying yes. A job might sound impressive, the money might be tempting, or the exposure might seem useful - but performers still need to ask whether the project fits their boundaries, values and practical needs. For parents supporting younger actors, this is a helpful reminder that a casting or job offer should be discussed carefully. Sometimes a simple question can reveal a lot: would the young person still want to do it if the money or status were taken away?
The Super Bowl Commercial Experience
Tommy also shares the story of booking a Super Bowl commercial. He applied through Spotlight for a role described as looking for “unique faces”, spent time preparing a self-tape, dressed for the role, and then later received a recall. At the recall, the role shifted, the process involved people watching remotely from LA, and the timings moved quickly. The job itself brought plenty of surprises. Tommy had to keep the project quiet because of NDAs, travelled for fittings and filming, and found himself working on a large set where everything was carefully organised. He also discovered that George Clooney would be involved, something he had to keep completely confidential until the advert was released. What comes through most clearly is not glamour for glamour’s sake, but the reality behind the moment: fast turnarounds, travel, preparation, illness on set, patience, professionalism and the ability to adapt when things change.
Social Media, Recognition and Resilience
The conversation also moves into social media, where Tommy has experienced both exciting recognition and difficult comments. After one TikTok video about his headshots gained millions of views, he was recognised in public - but the attention also brought negative comments. Tommy speaks honestly about having been bullied when he was younger and how that shaped the way he responds to online criticism now. His advice is clear: do not give up, and do not take every rejection or comment as proof that something is wrong with you.
“Definitely don’t give up.”
That message matters for actors of all ages. Casting can be specific. A decision may come down to a look, a detail, a brief, or something completely outside the performer’s control. Online comments can feel personal, but they are not a reliable measure of talent, potential or worth. Lisa and Tommy also discuss how parents might prepare young performers for the possibility of online negativity without frightening them or pretending it does not exist. The key idea is not to hide every difficult thing, especially from teenagers, but to talk openly, build perspective and help young people understand that anonymous comments should not be allowed to shape their confidence.
Practical Takeaways for Young Performers and Parents
- Start with what you have - simple photos and a clear introduction can still open doors.
- Check agency agreements carefully, especially if you have more than one area of representation.
- Know your boundaries before a job offer puts you under pressure.
- Prepare for quick turnarounds with self-tapes, travel and availability.
- Send the tape, then try to let it go - waiting is part of the process.
- Use social media thoughtfully, but protect your confidence from unhelpful comments.
This episode is a grounded and encouraging listen for anyone trying to understand what starting out in the industry can look like now. Tommy’s story shows the excitement of new opportunities, but also the patience, resilience and self-knowledge needed behind the scenes. Whether you are a young actor building confidence, a parent supporting a performer, or an adult learner finding your way into the industry, this conversation is a reminder that progress rarely happens in one neat line. Stay curious, stay prepared, and keep hold of who you are while you grow.