5 MINUTES WITH...A Model Agent

As part of our '5 MINUTES WITH...' series we have interviewed Danny Clifton. Danny is not only a tremendously experienced model agent at Broadcasting Agency but is also a stand-up comedian and a radio show presenter. Tell us a bit about Broadcasting Agency. Broadcasting Agency is one of the largest casting agencies in London with over 20 years casting experience. We specialise in character actors and models for film, television and photographic assignments. We have the nicest and handsomest staff in London*

Tell us a bit about what you do at Broadcasting Agency. I'm an agent for actors and models.

What do you love (and hate) about your job? Love: working with a variety of people. Hate: being desk bound a lot.

What would you be if you weren't a model agent? A teacher.

How did you get into the industry? I was on the books of photo agencies in the past - I rang one up and asked if they needed any help in the office anytime - They hired me the following week.  I co-ran that company from 2002 - 2004 and that gave me experience in working with casting agents and actors. I started here at Broadcasting in 2006.

What do you do when you get home from work? Feed my cat, get changed for a stand up gig later.

Which 6 people would you invite to your dream party? My wife, my friend Juliet (the funniest person I know and a great stand up), my brother Matt and sister Hayli, Paul McCartney and Roger Moore.

If you were invisible for the day what would you do, where would you go? The obvious choice is Virgin Atlantic first class departure lounge at Heathrow to see if is as nice as people say it is...

What phrase or word do you most overuse? Brilliant.

How do you find the models/actors on your book? They come to me but on occasion I'll have a look around town for some interesting folk.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to join Broadcasting Agency as a model or an extra? If you are interested in this kind of work, be reliable and courteous - people have long memories and a lot of people know each other. Reputation goes a long way.

How do I get to be an extra on the next Pirates of the Caribbean? The simple answer is to join an agency that specialises in extras. Make sure they are reputable and be patient!

Whats your favourite website? Twitter! I'm worth a follow! @dannysteele1

*this may not be strictly true.