The conflict between Hollywood actors and Creative Artists Agency (CAA) seems to be on the rise. The dynamic terrain of Hollywood has been abuzz with unexpected news about the CAA dropping renowned actors from its roster.
The reasons for these splits differ greatly, from differing opinions in the workplace to intentional shifts in career paths. Yet, what is definite is the impact these choices will have on the actors’ careers and the state of representation in the entertainment industry.
Hollywood Actors Who Dissociated From CAA
1. Jennifer Lawrence
In 2018, Jennifer Lawrence parted ways with the CAA after being represented by them for over a decade. While she was with the agency, she landed her first Academy Award nomination for her role in Winter’s Bone (2010) and received consecutive nominations for Silver Linings Playbook and American Hustle.
She was also nominated for a fourth Academy Award for her work in the 2015 film Joy. According to Deadline, her departure was mutually agreed upon. The agency continues rope in some of best Hollywood actors to its clientele.
2. Shia LaBeouf
In 2021, actor Shia LaBeouf, who was already facing legal troubles due to allegations of sexual abuse and battery from ex-partners, was let go by talent agency CAA.
This decision was made several months after these claims came to light, including a lawsuit filed by his former girlfriend FKA Twigs. However, there were other reports which suggested that it was LaBeouf who decided to part ways with the agency.
3. Bill Cosby
CAA had been representing Bill Cosby since 2012, silently parted ways with him in 2015. According to insiders, the agency had already terminated its relationship with Cosby in late 2014. CAA is one of the most reputed agencies in the world representing some of the top Hollywood actors.
Well before the recent news emerged that he had confessed in a deposition to obtaining Quaaludes to give to women he desired to have sexual relations with.
4. Marilyn Manson
In February 2021, CAA also parted ways with Marilyn Manson. This decision was made amidst allegations of abuse by Evan Rachel Wood and four other women against Manson.
The talent agency, which offered overall representation in various areas, announced that it ended its relationship with Manson on the same day that record label Loma Vista Recordings declared it would not be promoting Manson’s latest album or collaborating with him on future endeavors.
5. Selma Blair
Selma Blair is the latest on the list of Hollywood actors who have ended their professional relationship with CAA. Blair also parted ways with Narrative PR, and will now be solely represented by Ben Gaynor. The actress from Cruel Intentions remains under his management.
The departure follows criticism of Blair for making remarks that were interpreted as Islamophobic earlier this month. She promptly removed and expressed regret for her statements in an Instagram post regarding Israel’s reaction to the Hamas assault on October 7.
