#24 - Duncan Hayes: Discovering Ricky Gervais, The Early Days of The Office, Relationship Building, Star Quality, Finding Talent on YouTube, and The Psychology of Agenting

Red Carpet Rookies

With beginnings running clubs within London’s late night comedy scene, today’s guest has weaved his way through a multifaceted career becoming Senior Partner at United Agents where he shepherds the careers of none other than Ricky Gervais, Stephen Merchant, Sharon Horgan and many more.

In addition to his agenting, he has Executive Produced projects including Emmy nominated hit Derek, and a multitude of high profile stand up specials. I’m very excited to hear from the (rarely heard) perspective of one of the people behind the scenes holding the industry together.

Today we discuss:
(01:13) Duncan's early years
(03:34) Working the comedy club scene
(05:55) What does an agent do?
(08:09) What skills make the ideal agent?
(10:36) Advice for would-be agents
(13:11) Are actors and comedians still 'discovered'?
(14:39) Advice for screenwriters contacting agents
(15:51) Meeting Ricky Gervais for the first time
(17:10) The making of The Office (UK)
(20:01) Working as an Agent/Executive Producer
(21:23) Duncan's Best Advice and RCR Quickfire
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