Is it true that you need an agent to audition for tv roles?

Question

I would like to audition for some tv programmes, but I've heard you need an agent, which I don't have. Is this true?

Answer 1

si, you do, unless theres open casting calls for extras.

But in order to get an agent you need expierience, and if an agent asks for money up front there a scam.

Answer 2

Yes. You have to be a member of an acting union (SAG, AFTRA, etc.) to get a speaking role or extra screen time. In order to join a union you need to gain enough credits by appearing as an extra. To become an extra you can sign up with casting agents. It's free, it's easy, and you will always find a job. You can look on craigslist (in LA) and several other outlets to find out more agencies that you can join.  

Answer 3

Well there are somtimes open auditions and if you search the internet you should be able to find some sites that tell of audition opperunitys, I have had only one audition without an agent when I was part of a drama group, if you join a group then you may hear of some auditions, otherwise its allways best to have an agent if you can get one as they will obviously know more about what opportunities are out there as some auditions arent publisised and are just taken straight to agents they have found people through before, also sometimes they refuse to audition you if you dont have an agent or let you audition but choose someone with an agent over you simply because they know the agent and trust them its risky for them to take people without agents as they are more likely to pull out last minute where as people with agents are more likely to if thinking about pulling out have the agent convinvce them not to.

Hope I've helped :)