John Casablancas International Reviews

Listen I went to this meeting because I got tired of my mother, friends and peers alike telling me that I'm handsome and should be in acting/modeling , so I wanted to take a jab at it. I'm not famous by any means but even I know that this isn't how to get started in this industry. They should be paying you for your time then take a 20% commission fee when you get contracted. They also encourage you to have other people around you, like your support system (Mother, spouse, father, best friends, aunts, uncles). So when they get to discussing the price, the 2,050.00 is less of a burden on just 1 person. It's a ploy to make everyone there supporting you feel OBLIGATED to pay and help you "Reach your dreams". These cowards are ripping poor families off. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME. This is a warning, caution. Do not, do not, do not, do not and I repeat, do not move forward with this "agency".

-Mike

Strange enough (though not really important) when I first signed up for a/an meeting>>audition<< the rep. Brandi had a passion for over selling the company. When I called to cancel said meeting ?audition? I informed her "I see this is a school not an agency and I'm so sorry for wasting your time but I just need an agent.." and before I finished talking Brandi cut in saying, "YEP." and hung up at the end of statement. Perhaps my apology didn't mean anything to a major acting/modeling agen... school, like John Casablancas School. In conclusion, just in case you've somehow missed the message here: JoHn CaSaBlAnCaS MoDeL AnD AcTiNg Is A sChOoL yOu MuSt PaY fOr. Not an agent who gets paid when you do. False advertising. Two stars.

The bank wanted to reverse the payment but my son felt he could talk to them. He talked to a young lady who I DO not wish to give her name don't wish any hardship. However in stating this no one up until receiving a letter address to me saying I owe them 142.77 in collection against me. Also during that time after saying they will not, they took out $77 dollars 3 times. They did this before the payment was due and after requesting a pause. I pray this will help a parent, if the child can't handle do not do process a deposit, even if someone like Matthew will say, " it's only a deposit and this is the only payment from parents".

Long before price or commitments were even brought up, we got a detailed breakdown of their 30 week instructional period. Our only regret was that it is currently done entirely virtual (e.g. Zoom), which has its pros and cons. Had they had an onsite/in-person training option, we would have probably signed up. The cost is not astronomical for what you get. Even if you do not ever become a model, actor, etc, there were multiple training sessions that would just be good to have for yourself in general. We will definitely revisit them again in the future, in the hope that in-person training resumes. Not everyone is cut out for virtual learning, and some things are just done better in person for some people.

They rely on the same predatory tactics that MLMs use to reel in potentials. They rely on the fact that 99% of their agency students will fail, pay their thousands of dollars in fee, and the 1% who do make it and become rich and successful will pay 20% representation fees to their company. They do not openly discuss investments that will be made by the student in an upfront and honest manner, and they do not provide a contract before asking for your credit card details! Please do not fall for this gross, predatory business (whose founder, by the way, was a predatory man).

3) I have been in this agency for 2 years and I’m now signed and working in NYC with an actual agency. They did not help me get this contract nor have I heard from them since I graduated. They informed me that if I stayed in touch and showed up to “refresher courses” then I would stay in the top of their lists for job. After doing all their recommendations nothing.

They are also listed as a modeling school with the state of CT and not a modeling agency therefore falsely advertising themselves to make money and getting away with this. I have reviewed them negatively on their main website and soon after it was deleted for being “reported false my the business” which happen to all their bad reviews. PLEASE DO YOUR RESEARCH.

4) If you are looking into this for your young children it is more of a day camp then anything professional or getting job related. Even for adults this is compared to a cosmetology school in my opinion then a actual agency.

5) When I first got offered a contract they told me I had a day to respond and I ended up saying no. The next day I got a call from the agent saying that really want me and she can’t hold the spot. A week in I finally cracked (horrible idea) and paid their huge fee which they suddenly were able to take and weren’t overbooked like they originally said. They do not actually need to hold spots. They let everybody in!

When walking into my actual agency that wanted me to work with them. There was no fees. They didn’t make any promises and all they wanted was for me to make a professional looking portfolio that I did on my own with my photographers. Spent barely any money and have had the best luck! I’m saying this because if they want you. They will work for you!! For parents. Do not waste time on this place.

After receiving the emailed contract on that same day and carefully reading it over, we decided not to move forward with the high price, high pressure program. WE DID NOT SIGN OR SUBMIT THE CONTRACT. However, we followed the cancellation requirements outlined in the contract and cancelled our enrollment in their 30-week program via a certified, signed letter sent out on Wednesday, April 22, 2020, well within the 3 day cancellation period (although the contract was neither legal nor binding for us as it was never agreed to, signed, or submitted). We contacted the Cary office notifying them of our cancellation as well. My daughter did not begin or attend any classes as we had cancelled her enrollment prior to the start of classes.

According to the agreement contract, we are entitled to a full refund of our initial $295 deposit which we requested multiple times to be refunded as soon as possible. Again, we received no goods or services, did not sign a contract, submitted our cancellation via certified mail within the 3 day time frame, and have contacted the Cary, NC office as well as their corporate help desk (as there is no other contact information available to us) multiple times without response. Again, I'm uncertain as to why this company could delay or withhold refunding us our $295 without any legal reason for doing so. We made every attempt to follow all reasonable avenues to deal directly with this company to request and receive my refund with no response at all.

We sent at least 4 emails to the Cary, NC office along with 3 emails to the corporate office simply requesting our refund for 2 months with no response, no update as to the status of our refund, and no refund. We also placed multiple phone calls, but no one answers their phones. It is a shame that a consumer must beg and plead to receive a refund on goods and services that were never agreed to or never received. As an update, we filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau with no response from John Casablancas and filed a transaction dispute with our bank to try to refund our $295 charge. It is pathetic business practice that a customer must file a transaction dispute to fairly and per policy receive their refund. Unless you are certain that you want to lock yourself into this financial commitment for modeling classes, avoid them at all costs.

Our meeting was at 1:00PM and my daughter KINDLY reached out to her at 1:00PM and stated: "Is it okay to log in". Janet did not respond to her until 1:15pm and here was: "I was on at 1:00-1:05 and did not see you. Are you ready now?" My daughter responded at 1:15pm with "Yes". I did not like the entitlement attitude in which she CHOOSE to speak to my daughter but I was willing to hear Janet out because my daughter really wants to attend acting school.

On the call, after her greeting, the NEXT thing out of Janet's mouth was: "Were you waiting on me to respond to join the call"? My daughter responded, "Yes". Janet then said, "I told you yesterday to just join in at 1 so I don't know maybe you misunderstood me." I chimed in and said, "Yes she DID misunderstand you and that's OK because it could happen to anyone." Janet responded with "Yes it could happen to anyone."

She then went to her "presentation" of how this school can offer this, that, or the 3rd meaning misleading promises. In the middle of her "presentation" she overheard my 10 month old baby boy in the back and said, "How old is the baby?" I said, "He'll be 10 months on Saturday." My son was crawling towards me so I turned my attention to him and Janet said, "Wow 10 months huh, maybe he will grow up better."

Although my attention was on my son I STILL heard what this lady said! What the heck she was trying to imply that my son's life may be better he wouldn't be met with the same challenges my disabled daughter has? Or that since my daughter do have a disability, she probably didn't have that great of a life growing up?! I didn't know what she meant so I asked for clarity. I said, "Excuse me, what did you say because I'm having a hard time understanding you." Cowardly she didn't repeat it but I know what I heard. By the that time I'm done with the conversation. So I told her, I'll think about it and discuss it with my husband. This place is more than just a scam, it's ran by some disgusting, rude, and ableism people. I wouldn't recommend this place to my worst enemy. And to Janet you need to educate yourself on how to properly communicate with people, especially those that are different from you. Do better!

I am a middle aged actor, and I auditioned with mostly kids and young adults. After reading the commercial copy, they rated me an A, and then told me I would be contacted by email. Then they just abruptly cut me out of the Zoom room. I never got the email, and when I inquired via text, I was just ignored. I can accept a rejection, but don't lie to me by saying say that I will be contacted when you have no intention of doing so.

I contacted John Casablancas, and informed him of the unprofessionalism of his team. He had texted me an hour before my audition saying he looked forward to meeting me (he never showed up by the way). So I texted him this message: "Hi. I auditioned on Tuesday night. I was given an A, and told I would be get an email requesting headshot and resume. Never got the email. Texted the agency back and got no replies. This is really unprofessional." And this was Mr. Casablancas' response: "Excuse me the email was sent and your texts did not come through. I don’t work for Verizon so maybe lose the attitude."

I never received any emails as promised. And if they didn't have my email, they could have texted me (because I had received numerous texts from them prior to the audition). Whether this was ageism or racism (don't see my demographic represented in their Instagram photos), I will never know. But it doesn't matter. As I said, I have worked in the industry in the NY metro area for years, and I have never seen such unprofessional conduct and been treated so poorly. My advice: STAY FAR AWAY FROM THIS AGENCY.

Not getting picked on an audition should make you work harder. For ex: I think that I can sing, my family tells me I do good (but they are my family), if I hear it from 10+ strangers or acquaintances, I would definitely think about it; if you only hear it from your people, they love you, they see beyond because they know you but a stranger doesn't.

College is gazillion times more expensive, you land a job and that's it. Everything that happens after that is part of YOUR EFFORT. You have to take responsibility and be honest with yourself. In JC, you invest in bettering yourself (don't think about fame, think about you are doing this because you want to grow some areas in your life...) Exactly like college, paid 50k (studying "my passion") doesn't guarantee I will land a good paying job or a job that relates to my career. It all comes down to me, applying the techniques I paid for in college. So people, chill out and stop looking for FAME. Work on yourself first and analyze your reasons for doing it.

According to the contract we signed, if we cancelled outside of the 3 day cancellation period, we would receive a partial refund, which I accepted the terms of. I sent a postmarked letter requesting my partial refund, and my daughter DID NOT begin classes, I even spoke with Mark ** on the phone who advised that he had received the letter and the "Corporate Office" would review and take care of the partial refund.

2 weeks later, not only had I still had not received any refund, but I received a bill for $1970. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE. When I attempt to call to get a number for this "Corporate Office" I am either told that they will contact me or the call is disconnected. My daughter has not attended ANY of the classes and we even have correspondence from the "school" confirming this.

My daughter was very excited because of what they had told her so I said alright and they set up an automatic debit to my account. They told her she had until her first scheduled class to drop if she changed her mind and if she did we would get the $185 already paid reimbursed. Her first class would be September 28th, about 2 weeks after the initial audition, and after about 2 days she realized that she wouldn't be able to do this with her course load at college. She has been calling them at the number they provided, and had received calls from prior to the audition, 2 to 3 times a day since then.

There is no answering machine, voice mail, actually nothing at all. Every time she calls the number it beeps once and then hangs up. Since when does a reputable company conduct business in this manner, to me this has all the ear marks of a scam. I would tell everyone to stay away from this so called company, it is my opinion that they are just taking peoples money with no intent of providing anything to them. I find it very interesting that every review talks about how they were taken by this company but just recently a few reviews about how great they are suddenly appears on this site. I can't help but wonder who wrote those and even with them they still only have a 1.9 rating, again, my suggestion is to stay away from them.

We went to this meeting and they told my mom all kinds of stuff and blah blah blah and I felt so uneasy. And she signed me up because she was feeling guilty as a mom and laid out a check for 2000 grand for modeling classes and I went to these no training classes twice a week and was never taught anything. The sad thing is a lot of other parents who have problems like this fall for these people. I ended up walking away from this company and moved back home with family. The sad part is my mom put out this money she could have spent on better things for me like the therapy I needed. They are a real scam. Stay far far away. I do still have the travel bag they gave me all these years later, so sad.

Yes you have to pay to take the classes but $68.00 a week isn't bad when it comes to your child's dreams. They work with you and do payments if you don't have $2000.00 upfront. Her first month she got a runway job. By class 10 she was signed to a 3yr contract and was given all these tools and websites to book jobs. They do not hand you your career you have to work hard and listen to what they say but they give you all the tools needed to become successful. I have nothing but love for JC and the amazing people who have given me back my amazing, beautiful, talented daughter!!!

The first thing I noticed while we were in the waiting area was that the people that had been excused from the night before (who didn’t make the cut), was there meeting with representatives. Immediately a red flag went up. Then me and my son was called in a room to talk about his career and what they could do for him. Next thing I know, they are telling us that we have to pay $2,000 for him to attend all these classes and take additional photos (which could be purchased if we wanted).

Although, many thoughts went through my head I remained professional, but I don’t believe in discussing finances in front of children AT ALL. After I told her that I wasn’t going to pay, the lady got up and went to get another employee who told us she would refer us to another agency. They were so unprofessional and showed no compassion at all. This place is a total scam to get people money.

She gave some humorous stories about the industry and her experience places people with Disney and other big name entities after which each hopeful face walked the runway that was in this room. My daughter was chosen by the 25-year-old previously mentioned - a supposed honor because she works both in Dallas bad NY which is where she was leaving for (NY) later that day. Once in her office she blathered on about how beautiful and sweet my kid was and that they could definitely find work for her, however, they would need both parents there to contract her. Red flags were going off everywhere, however I decided to let this be a learning lesson for my daughter who sadly was getting her hopes up.

I did as directed, just to see this to fruition, and went home and got my husband and younger daughter who had just landed a child magazine cover on a fluke - no agent involved. Now back in a different office with another woman who was only on her 2nd week there, I asked the obvious question, how did they find us. Being new to the business she was not properly trained on the con-job, thank God! She told me that we must have registered online for information about the classes. I knew my husband and I had never done that and my daughter swore she hadn’t done it. I knew she was telling the truth because she didn’t know my cell phone number to provide and our last name was significantly misspelled in their database. She definitely knows how to spell our last name. Then the 25-year-old returned to the office we were in.

During our discussion she slipped and said something about her being with JC for 5 years. Hmmmm, the numbers weren’t adding up. She stated earlier that she had been with JC since she was 11, turned agent at 17 and was now 25. Second stumble was when she said something about looking forward to having dinner at a restaurant later that evening. The restaurant is a well-known restaurant that is ONLY in Dallas, however earlier she had told us that she was leaving after our meeting to fly home to NY.

Then came the numbers - $2000 for training which included 3+ years of unlimited refresher training and 3+ years of unlimited photoshoots. If you break the numbers down over three years of services, it’s not so insane, however knowing the stories weren’t adding up, I did not want my daughter getting caught up in this place/franchise. Yes, it IS a franchise - any old individual with some money can buy one and scam all day long. Oh and the 25-year-old knocked another business stating that they were NOT an agency. However, I know for a fact that they are. We were also told that even though if we were to sign with them and go through the training, we would still have the right to look for another agent and they would understand.

There are much better options to get yourself or your kid noticed. Spend 1 hour just to do some solid research and then Google or Bing reviews for a place that you’ve identified that might interest you. If there are a ton of negative reviews, there’s a reason for that. It’s a pain to write these, but even more of a pain to waste time and seeing a disappointed look on your kid’s face. They’d actually would have had a better shot at me had they just been straightforward and stated that this was for training because it appeared that I had shown interest at one point, even though it definitely wasn’t my daughter or me that had registered her.

Then they showed pictures of anorexic teenagers and she focused on the young women and told them, “in order to succeed in this industry, you must work hard to look like these girls.” (I worked in health and had volunteered for law enforcement since I was a teenager. These women in these pictures, if they weren’t photoshopped, were close to clinical starvation). Because I was already an actor looking for an agent and had several who worked in this industry, I knew two things: I should not be expected to pay ANYTHING to sign up with an agency because any legitimate agency prospers by viewing talented individuals' work and skills and talents they had cultivated over the course of their lives. We were never asked to demonstrate or read a monologue or do ANYTHING in the audition except to walk down a runway and then stand.

Here’s the thing... On the phone call, their texts, emails, and pamphlets, they advertise themselves as a modeling and acting agency that can help you find auditions and land auditions in tv and film. They went through several example of actors that became famous - namely Kevin Hart. Well I’ve met Kevin Hart... I’ve met several actors because I travel internationally and perform improv and standup myself and because I’ve done theater. If you look at theater and tv, there are actors of all sizes and shapes, but almost none of them are anorexic anymore because Hollywood has transitioned away from anorexia and because its reputation started to wane and gain heavy criticism after many models and actresses started dying and having serious health problems 20+ years ago.

So the message they were sending to these young women who were 10-17 was disastrous and false information that was damaging to their self esteem. I met one mother whose whole reading or putting her daughter in modeling was because their dad committed suicide and because she wanted to get her daughter out of the house and start doing things she was interested in. The next day we were told to come back. Well as soon as I walked in I was told I could purchase the photoshoots pictures for 10$. That’s a scam and red flag right there because I have text message receipts that the pictures were supposed to be free.

I brought in a resume and had a notebook full of everything from USBs of videos, plays, monologues, songs, and musical performances that I had participated in and a long record of my performance history and experience. They did not want to see any of that and did not believe that whatever I had was good enough without ever having seen them. They told me that I needed to buy their 2,000$ classes for 30 weeks, and IF *IF* I graduate from their program, I could sign up for a non-exclusive contract with them for 3 years. I asked what happens after you sign up? Allegedly I can apply for a short list of auditions (their website has 10 auditions, 9 of which are modeling gigs that were not paid well, like 50$ for each one, and an unpaid advertising gig. It’s important to note that every contract they offered our group of people they (the agent/agency) receives 20% commision).

This “agency” is not established well and lacks connections with people in the actual industry. Here’s the way they operate: they sell you a 2,000$ “VIP” package (or lesser packages for a few hundred dollars less) and they get 20% commission off of anything you get booked for, of which they leave it to you to actually book, audition, and submit the materials. Traditionally, it is an agent's job to do these things FOR you. Your agent is supposed to be the mediate who negotiates on your behalf using materials you and your agent collectively determined were good materials for auditions. An agent/agency is NOT supposed to profit by selling you classes or lessons or 20-30 week programs. In fact, that’s so taboo in the industry that most actors, modeling, musician, and entertainment unions, professionals, and legitimate agencies condemn this extortion practice.

To give a mathematical value for how their business model works... My experience with them lasted for two days - 3 hours the first evening, and 1 hour the next afternoon. In sum, I spent 4 hours with this group and at the end they wanted, without seeing my work or history in the entertainment industry, 2,000$ (or 1200 after I told them I had no money to spare). So let’s break this down... Let’s say we have 20 people show up (I think my group had 15, but 20 is an easier number to do math with) 2,000$ X 20 = 20,000.

Had all of us signed up for their maximum deal, they would have made 20,000$ in a total of 4 hours. A person can get by for at least half a year on 20k, and afford the rent for the building they operate out of based on 4 hours of work! Had they taken the smaller option, the total would have been at least 10k, yet that’s still a ridiculous amount for no legitimate contract - because again, you may not be eligible for the contract after their 30-week mandatory classes!!!

In summary, this “agency” does the following: masquerades as a legitimate talent agency. Primarily profits off of selling classes that you do NOT need (one of the classes was a class that would teach you how to wash your face, hair, and clip your nails). Supports the outdated and condemned practice that women must be anorexic in order to succeed in the entertainment industry (I can think of several millionaire women on tv who started from nothing and have been clinically obese their entire lives/careers. Heck, I’ve met a few!).

Takes advantage of grieving parents and child innocence. I saw one “agent” trying to guilt trip a parent into buying the package deal and assuring her this was the standard for the industry. As a person who has engaged in this industry who has traveled to several countries and has met many actors and whose friends are actually on major tv show productions like Revolution and Gotham, let me just tell you straight up: you are never supposed to pay anything for the contractor to continue with an agent.

They seek talent and find work for talent. An agency is never supposed to create talent or take money upon startup. I’ve also been told that a 20% commission rate is higher than normal - a normal/acceptable commission rate should be somewhere between 10-15% however, because I have not lived (merely visited) expensive places like New York, Las Angeles, Atlanta Georgia, etc, I suspect there is a possibility that the commission rate may differ based on location.

WITH THAT SAID... North Carolina is far cheaper to live than those places, so one would expect the commission rate to be lower than the acceptable range because there is less opportunity for actors, models, etc in NC due to the eradication of all tax incentives, loans, and even financial incentives in general for entertainment to work and produce in NC. (To clarify, you should do research on how the previous NC [republican admin/sorry for politics, but this is historically true and not mean to be a political jab] stripped entertainment industry incentives.) Because of this, most models, actors, musicians, etc fled like scared sheep and flooded into Atlanta Georgia, New York, and to a lesser extent, DC.

My overall warning: this is a scam, not a legitimate agency. Also, I glanced at a computer behind the desk to set the scam photos down... I saw numerous pages for reviews and such. They create fake profiles on various review sites to create fake positive reviews. Even if you don’t believe anything I have to say, but I sincerely hope you do, the 2,000$ fee for the mandatory classes on how to wash your face and hair and clip your nails is literally their business method for income. It was printed on a blue piece of paper, with their backup packages on a white piece of paper. They also included an “unlimited number of professional photoshoots” however, the way auditions work for paying gigs is, you only need a few pictures. You don’t need thousands or even more than 20 (and 20 is pushing it).

My dad was a graphic designer for 20 years in an advertising agency and I work in creating film and theater projects for the community for the past 6-7 years... I have no need of unlimited photoshoots because my family and I can do it ourselves and if I wanted to pay money I could go to my city’s cultural arts center and have it done for 10$ instead of 500$. So I mean... Take that for what you will. There are also numerous videos of people who got scammed by these people. I suggest going to YouTube to take a look. Be careful - they do a good job of faking their business success.

I explained the situation to Tracy and I was told that we needed to give her my son's banking information and she would refund his payment and It would take 3 to 4 business days to show up in his account. Out of $378 dollars the only refund he receive was $100. Since then I have been leaving messages again for Tracy and to date unable to reach her or get a callback. My son attended one meet and greet before I found out what was going and contacted John Casablancas Center in Tampa. What entails a $278 meet-and-greet. John Casablancas Center is well aware of my son's disability and clearly has taken advantage of him.

They are greedy hustlers. Don't take the chance. Even if you pay for a class up front encash it has to be the exact cash or they won't give you change or a refund. That's utter greed. Please save yourself the headache. Do your research, these negative reviews are for a reason. True enough some people may have been helped at JC but for the majority... it's a cycle of money hungry hustlers.

I thought what the heck and gave it a try. I walked into a room full of children and poorly dressed adults who had dreams of making it big! I was immediately skeptical. We stood in line while the “director” auditioned us! This was no edition. He met with each of us one-by-one. What a waste of our time. He read over a brief sheet of information that we filled out and gave to him and then asked us to read a sentence. It was an ad for Tylenol. He told me it was a sound interview, so he could hear how we sounded.

He then shared with us that we needed to look up from time to time as it was important to make good eye contact during an audition. Here’s where the psychological crap began. He made it look as if we did not know how to present For an audition. Yet he called it a sound check. The first step in making us feel like we might need him to show us what to do. He did this with a whole line of people while the rest of us had to go into another room and sit and wait. What a waste of time. While we were there, another young man took four pictures of us claiming it was our “photo shoot”.

Finally, after everyone was done with their “audition” the director came in and gave us a spiel about the company and about how they made people stars! (I am sure that many of these people didn’t know that only 3% of all models and actors are famous!) Yet, the director went on and on making it seem like we too could be famous. The next psychological part began as he showed us how much we didn’t know about modeling and acting.

We were then instructed to do a runway walk while the director and his sidekick watched us. It was obvious that there was little talent in the room And the director was further in stealing out in us that we needed John Casablancas agency to help us become stars. What a load of BS! After all of this they called us out one by one to let us know of our callback times. In any theater I’ve been involved in a call back means a second audition where you should have more prepared and do another performance.

When I inquired what we were supposed to bring for our audition he said, "I just told you you’re going to come back here and we’re going to go over your scores from tonight and talk about your future". What kind of call back is that? He also shared that we would hopefully not receive a call from him between 930 and 945 because those are the people he was going to call and say, "Please don’t come to your call back". He said he likes to do it that way so no one feels bad about being cut on the first night. What another load of BS. This was another way for them to make it look like they didn’t call everybody back but you know they did because all they want is their money for classes to make them professional actors.

Oh I almost forgot, he also had us grade ourselves from A to C. A - being we were ready to be accepted by the agency. B meaning we needed more training and C - it was not a good fit for them or for us. He had us do this grading ourselves in front of the whole group of people. He also wanted us to say why we graded ourselves that way. Excuse me but unless you’re already a professional actor or model who would great themselves A? This was more psychological crap to make it look like we needed him as he was preparing to scam for money.

I got my call back time. I didn’t receive a cut call. I went to my audition a little skeptical. When the director called me back and he didn’t grade me he started questioning about how I liked the audition and what I learned because I’m sure he was trying to fish that I needed more knowledge so that he could try to scam me into buying more classes. When I told him I was a bit skeptical and shared some of my concerns, he asked if I had a monologue ready. I said I didn’t at this time as he tried to show that I didn’t know how to come to an audition! However the previous night I asked what I needed to prepare and he said nothing. This guy was so full of crap I could hardly stand it! The more questions I asked the more defensive he got and he then said, "Well you’re not the person we’re looking for so I don’t think we’re going to be working with you".

I thought great I don’t want to give you my money anyway. Upon thinking about It on the way home I thought, “They called me back.” They wanted my money. If I had expressed a strong desire and no skepticism they would’ve taken it. They just did not want me questioning their illegitimate, scamming, work. I am sure had they been above board he would’ve addressed my concerns and assured me that everything was fine. However it was not. Don’t fall for this crap.

This woman came in and announced that she was the director. She had a nasty demeanor that suggested that she was disgusted because the room was located where the photos were being taken. She came in the room several times and seemed very agitated and finally she asked us to move to another room. When we moved my daughter's cup fell and she snatched the cup out of my daughter's hand. She started moving chairs as she went down on her knees to clean the water up. Then she told my daughter to move and my daughter told her that she was disrespectful and that she was wrong for snatching the cup out of her hands. She asked my daughter what was her name.

At that point my daughter realized that she was not going to treat my granddaughter right and she told her if you are going to take it out on my child then I will leave now and she told us to leave! She also told the photographer to get THESE people out of here! These people I asked her. I also tried to explain how wrong she was for snatching something out of another persons hands. This lady showed that she is prejudice and racist towards **. Her demeanor suggested that she had power to dismiss people and did not think about the opportunity of the child. I am appalled by her behavior and will never ever support this company. I just want others to know that slavery is over and treating people of color with disrespect is unacceptable!!!

I asked would my son be getting gigs throughout these training classes and I was told he would absolutely get extra outside work while in training. Then I was told there were a total of 30 classes over the next 17 weeks, for over $1800. The classes are $72 each session and I was offered several ways the payment plans to pay. I chose to put down $640 and would have 2 other installments in which to pay off the balance. My son was to start the training classes the following week. After coming home and reading over the contract, I saw that I had only 3 days to change my mind for a full refund or that I would be able to refund after the 3 days and 20% would be retained and each class would also be deducted from my 80% refund amount.

About 5 days later son did not do his some of his chores and since my son has not attended any of the classes I decided to cancel. I was given the runaround and to the date still have not been given any of my $640 back. After contacting the BBB and Secretary of State this company has yet to answer any of my calls. Which leaves me no other alternative but to take them to small claims court to get back my money. Do NOT let these people SCAM you and take your money.

My baby is only 4 sessions away now from being able to work professionally! I will always appreciate what they did, and what they still are doing for us! I know what to expect. One thing I can say to the people that are disappointed because there are fees, that if you don't make a sacrifice for your kids for their future, to help make their dreams come true, they may never think they are worth it. They may never learn to make a sacrifice for themselves, therefore, their dreams may really never come true.

The presentation was completely unprofessional, looked like copies off a 50 year old copier. The "agent" was way too young to be doing her job as she could not sufficiently answer my questions about How they could justify their $375 registration fee. I asked too many questions apparently as she had to call in a slightly more experienced agent who could still not justify the hefty registration fee. Then you have $2k worth of classes that are btw totally required. Run, just run away from this place and spare your child the heartache when you have to turn them down because of their unfair policies and fees.

So I made the appointment. We cancelled the next day because my daughter changed her mind and wasn't ready for it. The woman that I spoke to was abrupt and said, "What do you mean she is not ready?" She continued to argue and ask questions and said, "She may never get another chance at this". That was a huge red flag for me and will never pursue this agency if my daughter wants to start modeling. We have also had another comparison with Ford Modeling Agency, who has been VERY professional and understanding.

Then at the end of everything which took about an hour and a half she said, "When I call your name you will get your things and your person you came with," and go with the lady next to her! There were about 20 people in there and only about 6 people stayed! My sister being one of them. Then they closed the doors and said, "Congratulations. You made it past day one! I will call out times so you can pick which time you want so you can come back tomorrow!" We got the earliest time and came back the next day!

Now the next day we saw the headshots that were taken and paid $10 for which BTW they told us we would have to bring $10 for if we wanted them! Then we went into the room and talked about next steps! Now we went back to the rating of A B or C & about the training she would be doing! Now my sis will be going to a performing arts school in NY so she couldn't do the longer program which was 8 months. So I don't know the pricing of that but I do know that it was going to be two hours each training and I believe every two Saturdays. But since she is going to school for acting in NY she couldn't do that! So we are doing the three months program which she said are usually for people who is in the business or was and needs a refresher! So with this one it’s the same as the original one but crammed into three months! So learns the first few curriculums in one day for 4 hours!

Then the next two of them in July and August and graduates! The good thing is that she gets to do ads and promos after the first month! Then once she graduates she gets to do auditions for acting for TV shows and movies! Price included, photoshoots, training explaining how to do your makeup, the shade you will need, walking in heels, different terms for modeling and acting, reading from the teleprompter, and way way more! 3 months 3 classes on Sundays and 4 hours each class! And she also gets to attend the workshops to brush up on these skills since it’s once a month she is going for she will utilize the workshops! And those are included in the fee! The price was less than $1000! Was about $930!

But the good thing is I CALLED up the agency asking questions so I knew going in what it was about! They will not give you auditions for you to fail because you don't know what certain terms mean! You have to learn these things first! And they teach you that & she is signed for the year! If she did the 8 months one it would have been for 3 years! But she did the three months one so it’s only for a year and then she can either renew her contract or not! But she starts promos and ads after the first month and after she graduates she can do acting which is what she really wants to do!

They give you a secret site that only people who got accepted into it knows about and you get auditions sent to your phone and you need a login and password to look at it! You also do an online portfolio to help them decide which person to send on certain auditions that casting directors are looking for. My sister is very excited! She starts in 2 weeks! The good thing is if she does get auditions for acting and gets jobs for TV shows and movies she don't need to go to a school in NY for acting because she already got training here & she saved $40,000 because that school is very expensive! She will be spending less than $1000 here for 3 extensive months and they send her out on auditions and it’s up to her to book the gigs! So she won't need to go to college for acting when she already did school for way cheaper! And she is getting jobs! So that is amazing too!

They also do not promise you anything! They said they don’t promise you will get a job they don't promise you that they will hook you up with an agent or manager because that’s on you! They will get you auditions but it’s up to you to use the training and workshops you went to book your own gigs! They get your foot into the door it’s up to you to get your body through it! Commission is 10-20%. They don't get commission if you make anything less than $100 & yes!

So yes it is a training facility but they do get you to auditions as well! So we are all excited to see which auditions my sister gets after the first month and even after she graduates! The agency is a training facility first and an agency last because they want to make sure you will actually make them money for that year or 3 years you are in contract with them! And if you book an audition on your own they don't get commission for that because they didn't book the audition for you! And they are not exclusive so she can look for auditions and other agencies and agents and managers if she wants too as well which is perfect!

JC isn't bad! You need to ask questions when they call your child in for an audition ask to see what it is like. I did when they called my sister and you won't be shocked and surprised when they tell you she needs training! Of course your child needs training. They never done this before and they need to make sure you will make them money! And we saved $40,000 on a college she was going to for two years for ACTING CLASSES and spent less than $1000 going to training classes for three months and she will be getting auditions while in training! Yeah def a no brainer.

I showed up on time and soon taken into a room for a private interview of my pics and experience. Suddenly as they saw in recent comments that I refused to take lessons if I should need to pay for them their entire attitude immediately changed... saying that they have individuals with seniority that would be ahead of me for these roles and I should come back in 8 months. I have to say I was pissed as I had to drive a total of 80 miles to make what I thought was going to be a successful endeavor. They told me to come back in 8 months which I had no interest in doing so. I asked to purchase the photos the photog took the previous night. They told me to bring 10 bucks to purchase them though they said they lost the photographs.

THE ENTIRE EXPERIENCE WAS A SCAM... I know I was the most talented there which is why they shunned me knowing I would not pay for lessons as that is where they make their money. As I continued to query them as to why they were insistent on having me come back today they got nasty and said they would call the cops should I not leave as there were other prospective clients there. STAY AWAY FROM THEM... even the famous individuals they claim started their career with John Casablancas is UNTRUE!!!

I researched JC (John Casablancas) and saw a lot of scam claims. No, the woman said an "A" means you got the talent and you can start pretty much. A "B" and "C" is that you need a little assistance which is why you’re sent to a program/school to help you with your acting and modeling. Which unfortunately costs money that they don’t pay for. They aren’t mean. Just honest and people forget the truth hurts. I Feel they are legit. Most of the scam claims are misunderstandings of what it takes for them to do what they came to do, model and acting.

Then we get the ok, here is our packages for the classes $ 2150.00 (The VIP). You must pay right now, because he has to start classes next week. The way they portray things is very deceiving, and slimy. You think you are going to audition for something, then you think you're coming back to audition for some part, BUT NO, it's to take their classes. This whole operation is a SCAM to get you to enroll into their school.

Then goes on to ask more stupid questions getting back to his interest in training. I again ask how much. Then all of a sudden her manner changed and she says, "It clear you're not ready to commit to this." And I say, "Why are you avoiding answering my question about the price?" It went for bad to worse. Bottom line is, my son shouldn't have to pay people to have this career, they should be paying him! I am not some entitled princess mom or whatever I've read in some of these comments. But I know ** when I see it!! Don't go to this SO CALLED agency.

All they are interested in is signing people up to give money for classes. I was so upset that I wasted all my time and money on gas and tolls. Horrible experience! The main thing is my son was disappointed with all this. Customer service was horrible and how they treated him was so rotten. They lied on the phone and then he had no positive feedback. Please know that this is such a scam.

I received a random phone call saying I was referred and they wanted to invite me to audition. Blah blah first of all Trish told me to come photoshoot ready all I gotta say is that this real sensitive guy took our pictures in a room setup up like a photoshoot and took our pics with his cell phone (lol) like really and it wasn't even an iPhone. Yo, it was so tacky, but I ignored it because I'm so caught up in the moment and my daughter was with me. Pretty much everyone has explained in accurate detail as far as the whole process goes. This particular scam hub went next level though. They had a guy give a sub-par powerful performance in giving us the history and jargon crap about the company. He then the sensitive guy gave us 5 things to remember which he talked so much he forgot to mention the third and as I just review the past two days in my head I feel so lame for really believing anything coming out of anybody's mouth.

So here's something funny. They actually had a guy on site who was dressed like a really serious photographer and we were told that he was a photographer and yet he wasn't the guy taking our photos lol. The place is a complete joke need I say more. So when I luckily didn't get the call meaning if you did receive a call between the hours of 8am-9am it means you didn't make the cut. When in actuality those who got the call were the lucky ones because they weren't the fools like us superstars who didn't receive a call to come back for day 2. What they do is prey on the people who are serious, who have passion, and who truly desire to make in the industry. Those are the real suckers who they want to bleed dry.

In conclusion, the entire presentation is an act and real live SCAM! I will say this particular scam branch was really really good. They had me for a minute but like the bible says the truth will always come to the light if you truly desire to see it. I just thank the Lord for revealing it to me in this way and to every individual who took time out and who may have been burnt by J.C. Modeling just so that I could see and they be exposed. Thank you so much and I pray this helps the next person.

P.S. The reviews that have 5 stars and are pretty much are saying the same lame dead reviews are trolls and are not real. Pay attention to the wording and the tone of the review and also take notice how no one ever state what job they've actually done and/or how much they were making. They never talk about where they traveled; well there is one exception one jarhead stated she got signed and was able to tour LA like it was Europe or something. Anybody not from LA with a plane ticket can go to LA.

My child began crying when I said, I knew it. So can we talk about it later, after 2nd audition? My child did memorize, and did in fact do her part, and is patiently waiting for this 2nd audition, which is why we are here. They tell me well, 'We will get to that eventually". What they mean is no, and said no, until we sign her up for over 2,000 in "training". Take it from me, it is all about them hooking you in, and yes, they will waste your time and give you one sales pitch after another without ever admitting they in fact do want you to pay but deny it at first.

At the end of the day, they are deceitful, dishonest, and will break your child's heart. There is no 2nd audition, unless you are willing to cough up over 2K in their office first. They are fraudulent in their practices. Don't believe a word they say. It is a waste of time and money. They lack all integrity, and worst of all, do not care if they bring a child's hopes up to the sky, only to let them down if the parent doesn't pay them money when and if they finally tell you. You have to pry it out of them. Good luck. These people are insensitive, cruel, and lack all integrity. They just want your money.

What I find amazing is how people around me and even in casual contact can see something in me that no one has ever seen before. I know this because I can see how people respond to me. It's a wonderful feeling. Feeling the change that has been evolving in me for the past two years. And I credit the MTM experience for all of this plus I give thanks to the Lord for placing me in just the right place and moment to discover the opportunity of self discovery and to find talents here-to-fore unknown to me. The best experience of my life has been afforded me by this truly life changing experience. Thanks again to all of you at MTM Denver, staff and students alike - something I will carry with me, happily, for the rest of my life. Once again, this journey of self discovery has been one the greatest things I've ever done.

They break down the cost for you and pressure to get it the same day or the offer is off. The real winners were the people that were eliminated the 1st night. Don't make the mistake of ignoring the reviews, like I did. Do Not put your child or teen through that disappointment. Lucky for me I had already warn my girl, and we are now hiring a REAL actor trainer locally. Just keep an eye on where auditions are taking place and take your kid, once they you both feel you're ready. Being from Casablancas does not get you in - They are usually the JOKE of the industry.

I even asked her if it was buy one get one free why was my son contract stating a price and she said it would be in the computer it was free. I even asked her about the two registration fees we paid that day and she said we just had to pay for his registration fee. I even told her at the first training that this wasn't what our agreement was and texted her. She's denying saying any of it but, my entire family heard her several times. When parents are trying to give their children a head start ya'll shouldn't have people robbing families.

My children love the company but, this is just wrong and we're trying to solve the issue but, if we have to take further action we will. She's just wrong. I refuse to be taken advantage of. My husband just paid and extra & 251.00 and is expected to pay this for two more months. We either want someone to fix this problem or return our money. Thank you. Her name is Diadira and what looks like **.

Going to model meetings, and staying up to date with what the company is doing, along with growing a relationship with the staff is an important key to being seen and getting jobs. So, if you're looking for an easy ride, don't join JC. If you want them to get you in front of higher level modeling agencies you have to first prove to them that you can handle it, and the only way to do that is to make yourself seen. A good way to start is through social media. So, in conclusion I have gotten a couple of paying jobs from JC, and I am currently working to get further in the industry, and it's not easy. John Casablancas will not make you famous, but they can be the gateway agency to help you.

Modeling and acting jobs in Ohio don't always pay, sometimes they are for charity organizations, which I don't mind supporting, and they are good for my resume! I of course do like the average jobs that pay $20-$200/hour, and my agent gets a cut, so the more I make, the more she makes. I am very appreciative of everyone on the JC MTM team and love hearing the success stories of my co talent. Thank you John Casablancas for such a terrific Agency in Columbus!

During the first night, the Director, and both his little sidekicks explained that they are not there to take your money, in fact John Casablancas had this "thing" he'd say which were the 3 "nots". First Not was: They will NOT ask you for your money. And honestly cannot remember the other 2, but as it would for anyone the 1st "not" stuck out. So we agreed to come back, Day 2: you know the normal we do this and that, they tell you everything you want to hear and you get your portfolio and we invest in over 20,000 for each client for photos, makeup, hair and so on traveling for client and plus 1. But they do recommend they take this course for 10 weeks for 2 hrs every Saturday-but hold up! You need $1650.00 for each kid up front before they can sign you up. Crazy huh! But what about the 3 "NOTS"??!

Ok I went against my better judgment and signed them up with a small down payment just to get them started as this was something my kids wanted to get started with doing. I messed up bad! I read all the fine print after-and I def take full responsibility for my bad decision and have learned from this! What I do blame on them though, is that they lied from the get go-from the phone call that I very bluntly asked her if there was gonna be any hidden fees. She said NO! And all throughout the meeting with them.

John Casablancas Modeling & Career Center does not offer, with any of its programs, free portfolios, photos, or makeup. (But in the meeting they said "we do not charge for portfolios, in fact if you come across someone who is trying to charge you for one to RUN!") So I should have run and not gone on then. OH And... They don't tell you that if you want to cancel your transaction, you have to do so in writing, get it notarized and sent via certified mail with 3 business days from the sign on!!! Which is impossible for the letter to arrive to someone available to sign since their business hrs are M-F 2p-9p and Fri 6p-9p and Sat 9a to I believe 5pm. So in my case the certified letter was to arrive on a Friday since we signed on a Tuesday. So I will keep you updated on if my refund is honored.

Getting ahold of someone prior to you telling them you want out is cake but the minute you tell them you want out, absolutely everyone is out of reach and does not return calls/texts/voicemails-finally an email was responded to which the director tried telling me he had tried calling me "several" times the night my voicemail was left but his calls would not go through. I call **. So all in all, I've always been the type of person to give someone a chance despite what others say, which is another reason why I first decided to go ahead, but it didn't take too long for me to see exactly what others were saying were true! So You can either take this as your sign and turn away now or figure it out on your own as I did. Your future is up to you!

We were invited back the next day to find out what if any opportunity there would be for my child. Roger talked non-stop and again dropped words off the end of sentences throughout the interview. There was no explanation on what the contract would be or what it would entail. The interview ended with an offer: a contract with JC after we had training with JC, or we could choose training wherever we chose and come back in 6 mos. We had to fork over more than 300 dollars before end of that day (it was already late afternoon) to begin right away with JC. If we did not pay by day's end, we had to wait for 6 mos before we could return to JC regardless of whether or not we had training before then. Roger's lack of communication, pushiness and unprofessional questions made me cautious and decline the offer.

I have worked in the corporate world and never is an ultimatum requiring immediate financial action a good business practice; signals poor management, lack of commitment or misrepresentation by the seller. Maybe all is good here, but we are not happy with how things went for us. Roger needs to display better communication, social skills under all circumstances (there were many different styles represented at this audition). Roger was nice and seemed genuinely interested but was it about our furthering our child's career or was he simply interested in our bank account? I just found that Mr. John Casablancas passed away in 2013 and had a sketchy reputation. Shame on me for not noticing there is nothing about JC offering their students a contract: http://www.jcasablancas.com We will not be doing business with John Casablancas.

The "audition" took well over 3 hours, where they made everyone who was auditioning walk the runway despite whether or not you wanted to do runway modelling, which is only available to people at least 5'10 - and i'm well under that requirement at only 5'2 - Then we all had to do 5 photos. After all of that they informed us that this was only part one of the audition, and that there would be a second audition the next morning at various times, but that only some of us would make it. That night they didn't inform us that it was actually a school and that they don't really think that you will be able to make them money at this point in time. So they tell you that if you are under 21 that a parent must accompany you to the audition the next day. Once I get to the "audition" the next day, it's not an audition at all. It's a meeting with a recruiter talking to you about money and how many classes you will have to take before you can be a qualified actor.

Let me tell you, my dad paid an arm, a leg, and a soul ($2,495 + $345 enrollment fee) for me to take these classes, and I haven't been taught anything I didn't already know. They are also extremely unorganized and they will remove you from their system if you have 3 absences without notifying them at least 24 hours in advance; and if they remove you from their system they do NOT refund you any of their money. Another thing about John Casablancas is that since I put it on my resume I have not been called back for anything, even with casting directors who I've known for years, because John Casablacas is a laughing stock in Los Angeles and New York. I wasted my parent's money on JC and I hope this will save you from doing the same.

Then you pay extra money to be in their website to supposedly apply for castings and make money. Well that website is scam: you applied AND NEVER get a response ever. The supposedly agent BRIDGGITE NEVER EVER replies to either by email, or phone call or nothing. I got tired of asking everyone who works there for any issue that I had with their website and or their classes. ASHLEY the director never returned my calls, and when I was in the center she never gave me any answer of what I was asking, promising she was going to get back with me which she never did. It seems that all they want is money, for pictures, to sign up in their website and to apply for auditions WHICH YOU NEVER HEAR FROM THEM.

Best example: I emailed BRIDGGITE, their agent about an audition I was applying and she never replied back. I got the email a month later when the audition was already expired and she was asking me about the audition name??? I sent her the whole info so she understand what I am talking about. It's like the Bridgette one does not exist.

Then my last full body pictures which they made me pay wayyy before I had them, it took more than a month to get it: I called so many times. And they never answer the phone or answer and transfer it to another person. Then nobody knows nothing about the pictures, then ASHLEY'S new front girl told me over the phone that they will email me the pictures. Never happened. I went there three times in person. To ask for my pictures last time after so much trouble. I got them. They don't take seriously anything. Much less there is no audition that I know of that exists... Very bad customer service. I don't recommend this place at all.

Yes, I said testing. Nothing was just slid by because you paid for it. At the end we as a whole (class) had to put on a full blown acting and modeling production successfully, to graduate, showing everything we had learned during the course. I would not trade my experience with John Casablanca for anything when it comes to acting and modeling. I embraced every minute of it! I learned so much and used it going to auditions. Have I worked since leaving John Casablanca? Yes, I was getting calls before and the call backs increased since using what I learned. You the individual have to go to the auditions and get the parts using the tools they have help develop.

Lastly, since I said they are not a full blown talent agency only, but training school. I have to let it be known as well that even while in training the school will have auditions that come through them for actors and models for work. Even from my class one I remember for sure was the hit show "Home Land" was auditioning and one of the females, I knew and trained with landed a part. Also "Hunger Games," I was there so I want to speak in all fairness across the board. All I am saying is that what you put into it is what you are going to get out of it. First of all the industry is very hard to get and reach the top, and the School did not promise you that, at least not when I went through the one in NC. And I am not doubting the experiences other may have had, but that is not every John Casablanca, just that location and yes if that's the case then something should be done about it, in all fairness.

To our surprise, the aloof receptionist (Sophia) and the lousy photographer (ROGER) all of a sudden became the Manager and the Talent Expert... awkward (reminded me of that I Love Lucy show, where the sheriff of a small town would change hats to become the firefighter, the judge, and the hotel owner). Roger gave us a 30 minute boring-arrogant speech, afterwards the audition consisted on reading a few lines in front of everybody. At the end they said not everybody will be accepted, and spoke to us about the results of the "audition" individually. Sophia took me to a cubicle and robotically told me I had done great but needed a few classes that they'd be happy to give me for a crazy enormous amount of money. I nicely said I was not interested and express my disappointment about Casablancas turning out to be sort of a school instead of a model agency.

The receptionist/talent expert/Sophia got robotically nervous and went to get Roger to convince me to sign up and pay. Roger came, told Sophia she was very stupid (!!), and apologize to me for his receptionist being "such an idiot", then he proceed to try to brainwash me of giving him a $375 enrollment fee plus $2400 in exchange of a few weird classes and nothing else (no modeling agency work at all). As he couldn't convince me, he got extremely mad and started making racist remarks about my country of origin (Germany), so I stood up and started walking towards the exit while he was following me, now offering me a 50% scholarship and requesting my credit card number to charge me "just 50% of the total"! I smiled, told him "nein danke" (no thanks in German) and left.

ROGER, a jerk who yells at and insults his employees in front of his prospect clients, a jerk who gets furious if his cheap-brain washing tricks do not work on you, and a scammer who wants to take your money and your dreams away.... and all this shows in his face... the guy really looks like a scammer and a jerk. Later at home I google everything and found out that JOHN CASABLANCAS (founder of franchise) was a pervert who abused his students!!! And also that his franchise has been fooling/scamming people for decades!

Please people, if after all the bad reviews you still want to go one of his fake auditions, pay attention to all the red flags. In this particular location of Casablancas (Harbor Blvd in Santa Ana) Roger with his pathetic attitude make the scam super obvious. Hope this review is useful. Oh! Sophia till this day, keeps calling my number to invite me to an "audition of JC Modeling Agency"... telemarketer in the morning, receptionist in the afternoon and talent expert in the evening, cool, and she can receive insults from Roger without even blinking... just like a Stanford Wife robot. ;)

Another instructor who was over makeup didn't not sell her product. Meaning I wouldn't want her to do my makeup on a good day. She didn't bring anything that I hadn't already learned from watching MAC or youtube. If you can do better please don't waste your money at John Casablancas in Atlanta. It is so ghetto! I dreaded going and regretting paying my money so I decided to happily withdraw. It was the best decision I could possibly make for peace of mind.

You people have jobs, if you really love your kids and support them in their dreams, you would not put a price on their success. Or maybe if you are POOR, and don't HAVE ANY MONEY you shouldn't try to put your family in more debt. Don't complain about it if you are broke. You shouldn't be doing it in the first place. If you think John Casablancas is a scam you are dead wrong. They take the time to train your child through the Acting/Modeling Industry. If you don't appreciate what they are doing for your son or daughter you ARE LOST.

I know lots of stuff that I implement into my days in public. John Casablancas is so good that I have been Rushes by CROWDS AND CROWDS AND CROWDS of paparazzi asking questions about what I am up to. WOW. They made me famous and they could do the same for you or your loved ones. Enjoy JC because they take time everyday to try to make people famous and get nothing back. BE THANKFUL!

I then spoke with a co worker sharing my concerns and I was very surprised to find that the coworker had dealt with John Casablancas before. I was in shock at the information that she shared with me. I immediately attempted to make contact with America, the recruiter that we had spoken to the previous day. She had given us her "personal cell phone number." The funny thing is that when I attempted to leave a message (as she did not pick up), her voice mail was full! Really?! That was a red flag for me indicating that she wasn't checking voice mail regularly. If this is a personable company and your claim is "you can call me at anytime. I'm always available" why would the mailbox be full? I then sent a very professional text indicating that I had decided against going with the agency. I also indicated our reasoning as to why, specifically speaking regarding the reviews about the company.

I did not receive a response back until the next day. I also called the office to leave a message after sending the text because I was very shocked that the cell phone number that America had supplied had a full mailbox and I wasn't able to leave a message. I left a message indicating that we would not pursue doing business with the organization, explained why and requested a call back from America. After all, she had been very "accommodating" during the appointment time and had expressed how much she would be there for us during this process. Not only did I not receive a call back but I received a very rude text from America. I am a very cordial individual. I carry myself in a very professional manner. America's text was rude and made excuses for the organization.

It is never my intent to be rude or short with anyone. Simply because I made a decision on the behalf of my daughter to not engage in business with an organization does not give a representative of the organization the right to be rude. I had even offered to bring a written notice to their office terminating and supporting my decision to not engage in business with this organization as I wanted to terminate in a timely and professional manner. I also wanted to ensure that I met with them in person to turn in a written notice. I was told by America that I had to send a certified letter to terminate with their organization. Really!!! So, as a consumer, I decided to not do business with an organization.

I act in a professional and responsible manner. I want to ensure that I give notice and terminate in a manner in which I know that the organization is notified that I will not engage in business with them and I am responded to in a rude, short and uncaring manner. No thanks!!! Don't be fooled by America's fake kindness! She was completely rude and non caring once I made a decision not to do business with John Casablancas! Genuine people do not behave in this manner. I'm so glad America showed her true self on the front end!! Buyer BEWARE!!!

We came in this morning for the second interview and were swarmed by children that clearly didn't have a future in the industry taking "classes". We were waiting in the lobby for 30 minutes past our appointment time. We started to look up reviews and realized that this place was but a school and not an agency that has one goal: to take the money from people who think they have a future.

When I very respectfully approached the man who had previously messaged me about this, he tore into me and harassed me telling me that I would never make it in the industry and he would have his manager call me and tell me all the terrible things about me that make it so I am unfit to be a model. I asked him to leave me alone at this point to which he started harassing me about my personal life. I was left in tears over this place. DO NOT GO HERE. They are dishonest money grabbers with employees who are entirely unfit and disrespectful. See the messages below. I have never been so disgusted with a company in my LIFE.

Both myself and my daughter was shocked with that high amount, he explained many different ways we could pay! He mentioned to make a deposit of 370.00 so he can keep the spot for my daughter and I can pay weekly payments of 72.00 at every class. I thought we’re there for an interview!!! I explained that I didn't have that kind of money being a single mom and he again pushed the payment arrangements. FELT VERY PRESSURED & INTIMIDATED!! Also made to comment that if we left to think about it that there was no guarantee that a seat would be held for my child... then he brought out the paperwork. Had me sign, after that proceeded to say they're not guaranteed to place the student with any jobs!

Class dates that were assigned for my daughter’s group were a Sunday at 11 am. The following Sunday was Christmas and the week after was New Year’s Day. The school was closed! Well I have come to find out that WE WERE supposed to pay and call to make up those 2 classes for those weeks as we were still being charged for them!!! WHAT THE HELL IS THAT?? The school was closed!! The next week my girl went to the class, they gave her a makeup bag and the entire room went in a circle and introduced themselves, that is it! (I was there.) Then the 2nd week she went in, they started off introducing selves again because there were a few new kids just added! Then proceeded to take turns on a catwalk. That is it AGAIN. Didn't teach anything during another 2 hours!

My daughter then decided it was just a horrible waste of time. We called out of the next 2 classes and contacted the director with our thoughts about the program and we're told what to do with a certified letter. So we did that and it went out the very next day. Here I thought that maybe I would get a refund of some sort but no… I received an invoice for 288.00. So I contacted the collection/finance department right away to explain the situation and then I waited for their response but they didn't. So 3 weeks later I get another invoice now with a 10.00 late fee assessed! What the hell!!! How can this be legal?? So generally, people never let yourself being scammed by this company again! They're NOT professional trainers by any stretch of the imagination! Please be smart!! Don't do it.

At the same time both of us (myself and my daughter was shocked with that high amount), she explained how many time we should pay or how the methods to pay! I said suddenly they asked and I don't have it or can't afford it right now! She mentioned about make a deposit of $100 first so she can keep the spot for my daughter and I can pay next day like the idea she said monthly payment or pay off with the amount of $2000 so I made deposit $100 in. Cash first to her, then she brought out the paperwork, let me signed all then she started to remind if I don't want it in the near future, in the first 3 days of cancellation, I must have a hand writing letter and notarized by the bank and sent the letter by certified mail to them! And they're not guaranteed the student should have a job after and that's not their responsibility! So they got all my method payment like a checking account and monthly payment!!

Next week after my girl went to the class, they gave her a makeup bag that's it, till the 2nd weeks she went in, she started off boring and said they didn't teach anything beside of let her sitting free during 3 hours! So then her studying at middle school have a lots of homework and projects that she don't have time to do so she wanna quit at JC! At first I showed up myself at the office, the director eating lunch relaxing reminded me that I need to send the termination letter by mail! So I sent it by certified mail with notarized from my banker and hand written letter, and then I waited for their response but they didn't...

I waited till 4 weeks and I called back, the director guy, his name is Mark on the phone line with me again he asked "Did you send by certified mail? Did you have a tracking number? I didn't received your letter," and I asked, "What if I resend it, would I get my refund back cause I already paid $1600, and they gonna stop withdrawing or charging my money from my bank monthly" but he said "No we will constantly withdrawing your monthly payment and you wouldn't get refund back cause this is over 3 days."

So generally, people never let yourself being scammed by this company again! They're Not a professional trainer! They just scammed to rip off your money and now the fee is not $2000 what they said, they add up $400 extra for deposit they said and in the contract paperwork now I know they've never said they will refund deposit back or anything! Please be smart or at least we should sue them and get a FBI involved to closing this company for scamming innocent peoples.

After you receive the information and know how that John Casablancas provides, it is truly up to you to use the resources and LEADS available to shape your own destiny. The practices, workshops, professional photos, and the knowledge of the industry REALLY DOES help you learn what you need to know about modeling, runway, acting, commercials, postures, etiquette, and so much more. The inside leads that John Casablancas showcase to its students are PRICELESS. I enjoyed taking the courses! The teachers were insightful to what you can expect in the industry. The branded name of John Casablancas is honorable to wear.

After taking the course, I can say I have learned a wealth of information which has increased my wisdom about the industry. The practices have brought me to a WHOLE different level of confidence and self-esteem. I can say I feel ready when I audition or perform in front of directors. After you take the courses, how you apply it all is really all up to you! You cannot expect opportunity to come knocking at your door. If John Casablancas does not work for you, maybe acting and modeling just isn't your chosen talent. It is not fair to blame the school if it doesn't work out for you. Bottom line is John Casablancas is definitely worth the money, because you will walk away with a new self-confidence and know-how about modeling, acting, runway, commercials and more. This alone makes it all worth it.

First they see if you are comfortable being photographed. Then they ask and tell everyone in the room a bunch of things about modeling and acting. When you answer the questions, it shows them how confident you are about yourself. Many of them were too shy to speak up and say anything. Then they you have to read a quick script to show how comfortable you are behind a camera and "walk the catwalk" like a model would. During all this time, someone else is watching you via camera feed into another room and reading your profile, to find out if you are worth pursuing further. I'm just a regular guy, who is not the best looking, and I thought that for sure I was a (C). BUT, I made an impact on them by what I said and what I did during the short time I was there. I kept my mouth shut for most of the time. I was there and answered questions when nobody else could.

Now I am going on to the next step. Confidence is key. This agency has represented many now famous actors/actresses and models, so it is NOT a scam. They are approved by the Better Business Bureau. They say at the beginning that they take 20% of your earnings like EVERY agency does after you get started. But nothing is free. You pay money for your profile information and acting classes if you need them. Don't be a hater because you might need more training than others. Or if you get passed up by someone else better than you. ** happens, so deal with it. They will work with you if you show the desire to succeed. They are not going to baby you to make you feel better.

Bugging the crap out of them by calling and asking them how things are going won't help you at all. I already know that since I have next to no cash, I will consider working a part-time job to get that money for those classes, because the potential rewards outweigh the risks. I just have to give it my all, because I want to succeed. If you don't make it, suck it up and move on to something else because there are many other careers out there. Don't be such a hater.

One night I was filling out applications and got a pop-up for a modeling site. "NEW FACES WANTED!" It wasn't JC, but two days later JC called me asking if I was serious in modeling or acting. Honestly, it had never crossed my mind. I grew up with a severe stutter and Tourette's. I had learned to control my stuttering through the military and Special Forces, but my muscle ticks are different. Well, I went in for the audition. It was the weirdest thing I'd ever done. From Green Beret to walking a catwalk. I got my callback time and went home.

So, I'm a smart guy. I read every word on every JC website. I also read all the scam warnings from people who looked to have some bad experiences with the company. I also spoke to a college friend who signed Elite right out of college. When I went back for my 45 minute talk, I asked all my questions. That is the key to success in anything. Research and Questions. Now, I didn't have a job or solid income. I was pretty much living on my disability, but I paid my money for the program.

For the first couple of weeks, I blew up the Director's phone. I must have emailed and text once a day. After every class, I would practice hours a night so I'd be ready for the next class. By the end of the first month, I signed my agency contract so I could work. They knew I didn't have a job and would do anything for work. Because I was dedicated, they had no doubt in my ability. I worked a Walmart/Pepsi promotion for 24 days. A couple of months later, a casting director was looking for talent in their 20's. I'm 39. My agent told me to apply. She had a long standing relationship with the director. He was doubtful at first because of my age. Once he met me, he hired me. After the event, he emailed my agent saying I was the talk of the event.

I have been with JC, in Raleigh, NC, four months and it has been great. I am now in the Avanti Showcase for May 2017. I am competing in the 2017 Citrus Pageant and Model Search in Orlando in February 2017. I was just an extra on the TV show Underground in a featured scene. I have made back more money than I had to put into it.

This work is NOT easy. It definitely wasn't easy for me. I was a soldier. I wasn't personable. I wasn't a happy guy, but I learned to be. The more I learn to be happy, the more I actually am. I still don't have solid income, but I have ambition. I'm still working on my MBA, I'm writing a book and a children's book series, and I have a patent pending.

My Director told me day one, "You will get out of it, what you put into it." I practice my runway daily. I practice my monologues and commercials daily. I submit for work... DAILY!!! I will go far in this business, because I need and want to. You can't just show up, go to some classes, and think you, or your kid, will be a star. I've seen kids cut from the program because their parents came dressed, and acted, like tool bags. You ARE your own brand. If you can't be professional, then you don't belong.

For those who have done nothing but complain, most with a poor understanding of simple English grammar, where does the fault really lie? I hear all these scams about JC taking money. Yes, in every business there are some bad apples. Do I know any in JC? No. I do know that, as parents, this is just as much your job as the one you work every day. You can't be in it part-time and expect to see gains. You can't brush over contracts and transactions and think someone will hold your hand if you mess up.

To those who are considering a career in modeling and acting. If you think this is a scam because you have to put money into it, do you your research. Research how much acting and modeling classes are. Research what photo shoots really cost. Do the math and make your own decision. And for those who complained about the A,B,C grading scale. An "A" means you HAVE a portfolio. It means you've done professional work and had professional training. That's why you don't pay money and you go right into working. A "B" means you have little to no training or experience and that you believe you would do well if you did. A "C" means you have no chance. People who say they are a "C", get cut. Why wouldn't they. These individual experiences, good and bad, are INDIVIDUAL. Do your own research and make your own decisions. GOOD LUCK!!!

Now the classes broke down into one class per week for 20 weeks, ranging in education on how to properly apply makeup for different photo shoots, to runway training with Chelsie, to skin care with Jai, to acting, to resume building and job interviews. It wasn't cheap, the total cost was around $2,300, but it is reasonable, and there are multiple payment options, so it comes out to about $115 per session; and two of the sessions actually are full-fledged photo shoots. The most outstanding part for me was when the very knowledgeable and talented JC director, Greg **, encouraged me to go to a few castings for a hair show before I had even completed my program. I ended up booking two of the castings and getting paid for both jobs!

The payment aside, I went on go-sees, earned work experience for my resume, and since I was modeling at a hair show I got a fresh, updated salon-style hair makeover by top professionals in the industry FOR FREE. And it was a blast! I would recommend John Casablancas to anyone who wants to break in to modeling and acting and wants to do so with a solid foundation and a truly supportive team behind them. The knowledge I have gained from the people who teach at JC and have been in this industry for decades is truly invaluable, and I feel so blessed to have gotten the opportunity to work with them.

First, I want to get something out before I start. I live in Illinois and am in the medical profession. I began as a Certified nurses aide, moved on to L.P.N ultimately becoming an Emergency Medical Technician. All that reads this will probably ask, "What does this have to do with what you think of this company?" Well, my answer will be all in that which follows. Just read on!!

If you want to be a better you, in any shape or form this company is what you are looking for. Will there be money involved that you will have to pay? "YES" Just the same as I had to pay out money to get where I am at today in the medical profession. It didn't matter how small or big the class was or how much I learned in one day to the next. I still had to pay for the knowledge I was being taught. Some days was short some days was long but still had to pay the price if I really wanted what I was after. My dream, my goals etc. This being said, there are no places in this world you will go and get what you will receive from this company for free. YES, everything has a price. The question is, "How bad do you want to succeed, grow, accomplish, conquer, and win?" If this is things you want to do then John Casablancas Nashville is where you want to go.

You may ask, "Why Nashville?" This is where my daughter has been for her training. What has she gained?? Well, let me tell you!! She has become one of the many mature, hard-working, respectful young ladies I have ever been around. You say, "You would say something like that she is your daughter." NOTE: I said, one of the many! I have never in my life seen so many well rounded, amazing teens in my life until I took my daughter to John Casablancas Nashville. One of the best things is now my daughter is one of them.

She has accomplished much while being under the instruction of the center in Nashville. She is now a 4.0 student, who has accomplished receiving one of the biggest awards given by her hometown school (School being over 1000 students) (Citizenship Award). There is much criteria to be considered of being a recipient of an award like this. (This all happened when she was just 12 yrs of age.) She has landed main roles in plays that has been open to a whole community. This is just a small portion of the many things she has gained from being a talent at John Casablancas. She has currently been called by a director in Nashville for a part in his film.

As a parent I have been more than pleased with what my daughter has received from being a part of John Casablancas. I have seen many accomplishment that other talent has gained (all ages mind you) from being there. Matter of fact in the past year I have seen many move on to amazing things. My daughter's many accomplishments has been because we have taken a part of the program this company offers. I am more than excited to see where it is going to take my young 13 yr. old daughter next.

Do yourself a favor. Don't visit a company like this entering their doors with negative thoughts in your head because of something you read or experienced somewhere else cause that will only set you up to fail. Come with a positive, hopeful, eager attitude because that is when things will happen and doors will open for you, just like they did and continue to do for my daughter.

I hope that will do what say and make good on all their promises but we know they won't. I know in my heart and I tried to tell my girl, she paid 1500 upfront and it bothers me because I felt helpless. If you are looking to get in modelling please don't go to Casablanca's modelling - they don't care. I hope that what I shared with you about this experience that I had, and what is going to happen in future. I hope that somebody that really and truly finds a modelling agency that will make all their dreams come true. Please save yourself money and despair by avoiding this modelling agency at all costs. It's not just the money that they get from you, they take your heart and soul and when you are a little boy or girl there is no amount of money that can ever replace the time or disappointment when it is over.

What I didn't know, was how wrong I was. I took the classes and I can tell you firsthand that they are lackluster. The classes are unorganized, unprofessional, and the common sense lectures become quite predictable. They give you a monologue/commercial to memorize and train to master, as well as a Runway style to copy step by step (Which is completely out of style and OLD). I doubt that any real runway would have their clients do such a preposterous example. The classes are so basic and obviously pander to the delusional minds of the easily manipulated.

They tell each and every one of their students that they believe in their potential, yet don't make any moves to back you up. I do; however recommend this program to kids of youth (Grades 1st through 5th) to build confidence and an assurance about what to possibly consider as a career path. If you're any older, then consider this school, or as self-promoted "Agency" a scam. They don't work for you. They take money from you. They don't have any actual agents. The "agents" they have working there aren't in the business and probably wouldn't know who to call FOR a job. If you have acting/modeling aspirations, then apply for REAL modeling agencies/audition for plays. Don't waste your time with these twisted clowns.

I came in with the notion that they would sign me and I would immediately start doing shoots and what not. I didn't know a lot about the modeling industry but I actually watched quite a few youtube videos today over the matter, and every single one said that if you have to pay anything up front, there is a 98% chance it was a scam. The modeling industry pays you, you rarely pay them, and if you have to it's typical for a photo shoot and it is nowhere near $4000, or even $68 once a week like the price sheet at JC displayed. I am so, so, so relieved that I never signed with them! I'm just hoping this review will help some people out!!

I'll start by describing some of the other "talents." Bad hygiene, bad teeth, bad skin. I'm not being judgmental. I'm only stating facts. This was explained that there was a market for everyone. Of course there is when they want your money. Most of the other "talents" could hardly read a complete sentence. Simply bad. These people wouldn't have even been successful in community theater. This agency (I use this term very loosely) taught us how to apply makeup. The makeup they gave me was crap & I actually replaced all of it which was no easy feat because I'm male.

Let's talk about the headshots. The photos were very good, but honestly they were no better than ones I could've taken (& have taken) myself with my iPhone for free. As I've stated, they were good, but one was so badly retouched that I complained. I looked plastic in it. They apologized & took another one. I had to tell them how to retouch it & specifically, what NOT to do. At the time when my photos were taken, I weighed 150 & am 5'10". I had no blemishes. My teeth are perfect. They're all crowned. I was 39 when I started, but I looked 29. I take excellent care of my face & body. As another reviewer stated, if an agency wants to use you, they do not ask you for money. DO NOT FALL FOR THIS SCAM!!!

The young lady continued and then pulled out a sheet with different payment options in case I didn't have the full $1995.00 today. The option listed at the top and was circled was one lump sum of $1995.00 or I could pay $320.00 today and then make payments of $67.00 per week for 30 weeks. I asked her to step out of the room so I could make a phone call to a relative to see if I could borrow the money, when in reality I wanted a moment to look at everything and make decision. I did NOT sign with them and then came home and read the horrific reviews and I am so thankful my gut instinct did not let me down.

In closing thank you to TYRA BANKS again for teaching me through ANTM the following: 1. NEVER pay anyone a dime to make you a model. If a legitimate agency wants to work with you then they will work with you, no questions asked as you are the talent and will make them money. 2. Anytime someone claims they need an answer right then or else your spot will be lost, walk away. Again, if someone wants to work with you then they will work with you, no questions asked. 3. Acting/Modeling requires hard work and dedication. If an agency leads by telling you about their huge success stories by way of pictures ONLY beware.

If an actor or model achieves fame by way of an agency 9 times out of 10 they will be happy to record a statement or have something on their social media thanking the agency for giving them their big break. If you cannot confirm any of the endorsements they're touting then move on. I have uploaded all of the paperwork I received during this process as proof I am not blindly disparaging the agency, just trying to prevent someone for getting "taken for a ride". Never give up on your dreams and always trust your gut.

As I stated, just to name a few. This arrogant, Director, Tyler tells me, "you've had so much training I don't know what to do with you". Ok, shouldn't that be a great thing??? Of course not, it's because you can pull the wool over my eyes. And technically, I don't need them, they need me. I found it interesting how they were turning people away because they "didn't have experience" but here I am with a resume with tons of experience and he tells me "I don't know what to do with you"??? Really dude??

Then he proceeds to tell me that he thinks I would be a great Instructor!! Excuse me? So I asked him, "what made you come to that conclusion?" He started rattling of absurd comments like, well, "when you were here the first time, you were a little "Goofy!!!" Yes... I'm like, "I beg your pardon!" I remember very well the first time I came here and everything about me was professional and I was super encouraging to the younger talent, very humble and very respectful. Remember, I'm not new to this. I know the drill.

Tim, the blonde headed lady with the spiked hair and mixed match socks was super excited and applauded my resume and my confidence so I have no idea what was written in my folder but I do know that he was making up stuff to throw me off and seemingly felt offended that I questioned him. During my first "audition", I had braids, styled rather nicely I might add, but the lady Jill, Jan, whomever, who is no longer there by the way, told me "I COULD NEVER SUBMIT THESE PICS TO A CLIENT WITH THAT LOOK!!!"

Basically, my look was too ethnic! Honey, I knew at that moment that this was not the agency for me. Oh, not to mention that I am a voluptuous, tall, confident, radiant, African American women, with tons of experience... so you can understand why Tyler "didn't know what to do with me!" Dude is a joke. Promised to call me on Monday, February 1st... still waiting for the call. Now that's integrity. BUT, they want you to honor your word. UGH!

I left a little insulted at first but I realized that they knew they would not be able to pull the wool over my eyes and they also knew that I had the goods and they weren't able to offer me what I needed. I feel sad and nervous for anyone who truly has a desire to get into this business because "agencies" like this can destroy you if you're not prepared. Parents, DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE. THIS "AGENCY IS A JOKE".

They "saw potential" in anyone with a checkbook. The instructors while some are nice are not qualified to teach those classes. One of them claims she is in Shawshank Redemption. I watched the movie twice after meeting her and she must be in the deleted scenes... They rave over the receptionist, Cassie, who was in the movie "Parker..." as an extra. For half a second the camera passes and you can very briefly see her in the background. Exciting, yes, but you're not a star. They had me audition for a New York talent tour and I made it along with 40 other people out of 600 who auditioned. It was $1500 to go, get a photo shoot in Central Park and meet with 9 agents. 5 agents said they knew exactly how they would use me. They loved my look, wanted me to come back in 6 months to sign with them and model for companies like Nike, Abercrombie, American eagle... etc.

The director of the trip, Maria, said that the agency would receive lists of people from each agent for a callback. To this day, almost a year later, they didn't receive them. I have doubt that some of those people were even agents. While it was a great trip with my friends from the agency and with my mom, shortly after getting back me and both my good friends that I met there left the agency. They both were signed with agencies and did little to no work. I chose to look for some work on my own and became closely involved with the REAL modeling community here in Columbus by walking as a finale girl for designer Kevin Black in Columbus Fashion Week and had the pleasure of working with Steven ** who scouts for New York Fashion Week.

I found more opportunity by looking on my own for work than being with this company. They want your money and truly don't give a damn about you or your dreams. Sure, they taught me some stuff but I literally could have spent less time and saved gas by just googling it. The most JC ever got me were two unpaid segments on Good Day Columbus, where yes I received exposure and gave me 5 minutes of local fame, but being on Good Day Columbus isn't going to land me in the Victoria's Secret Fashion show.

If you're looking for REAL agencies in the Columbus, Ohio area.. Heyman Talent and Sigal Models are actual, credible agencies in east Columbus that are truly looking for new talent and get people jobs internationally. But whatever you do, don't waste your time at John Casablancas because they are fantastic con artists who take advantage of those who have big dreams. Save yourself the time and humiliation.

Finally the front desk staff, Natasha and Mariah are incredibly rude as is the Director. It's clear the education level is low there and you’re dealing with some very ignorant people. Also something they don't tell you is it takes about 35 - 40 minutes to check in before every session - so while you pay for and show up for your weekly 3 hour class, you actually don't get the full amount of class time since you’re standing in the hall for so long. And if you complain you are stonewalled. They won't speak to you or return your calls. We finally cancelled the classes halfway through their program and found a legitimate talent agency. Don't waste your time or money here. If you are serious about a career in acting/modeling spend the money on some quality pictures and go to a real acting school. Not this place.

After she looked closely she realized I was correct and explained that if she had not done that she would have been fired. I explained to her that she was going to get fired because she would not let Madison in her session. I asked her to refund the $139 since it was not due but of course she is not authorized to do that. By this time the cashier is in tears and I almost felt sorry for her. She still refused to get Janet the Manager or anyone that could correct my payments and due dates. I requested her to have Janet to call me but she never returned my call. I called the number on my receipt and was told that Janet set the account up incorrectly and only she could fix that. They were very rude and would not listen.

I called Janet maybe 5 or 6 times and finally got a call back from Janet. Janet stated extending payments were no longer allowed and I will still behind. I pointed out I was looking at my contract and no payment was due until Dec 12th and I had made and early payment on Dec 5th and forced to pay again on Dec 12th. She said she would call corporate and call me back. She called me back a few days later and said that I did not have to pay again until January 9th (which was correct) but I would have to sign a new contract and pay monthly. I explained I was not signing a new contract and I would like to get corporate's number.

She emailed my number and stated that since Madison would not be there the next Saturday (Dec 19th) she would mark her records. I texted her back and said Madison would be there for her session and I would like for her to apologize to Madison and maybe give her a JC tee shirt since she or her cashier and humiliated Madison in front of 20 or 30 people who were in the lobby. I thought was a small request after all I had been through and of course Madison not being able to get in her class. She said she would leave a tee shirt but was not apologizing to a child. Madison went to her session on Dec 19th but no tee shirt was left at cashier for Madison.

On Wednesday Janet called me to explain they were breaking Madison’s contract and refunding all my money ($690). She said she was concerned when Madison was signed with Disney or some other big name she was not sure how I would talk to the scouts. That was too funny. I am very lucky and I think she realized that she could not scam me. Today on December 26th, I received my $690 check. I had already decided they were not getting any more of my money. The public needs to be aware of JC. The staff are very hateful people and that is just wrong to treat children that way. I really don't think it was legal for them to break the contract but it was certainly easier that if I had broken my end.

After that we all get called into separate offices. I personally spoke with the director Toula. She just got straight to the point. Laid out a contract right away and said she thinks I am great and wants to sign me right away and I'll be taking classes for 12 weeks and be with Zoom Agency. I was baffled and confused. When I started to question this, she was just trying to sell me the dream saying I will be great for the part in Ghostbusters and The Code. And brought in Tim the casting guy. He said the same and agreed. So I of course caught some interest. Then I was trying not to be rude and told them I will think about this, and contact them back. They just kept harassing me to sign. I told them I don't know how I'm going to get here every day for the classes. I have work. I need to figure out how it will work first. (Because I wanted to leave.)

And then she kept on heavily persuading me to sign. Even dropped the price down. Laid out a good payment plan... Next thing you know I signed. I don't even remember how or why but they put so much nonsense in your mind all at once and you get stressed out and confused. Once I left the building I was thinking to myself, "what did I just sign?" I don't know how I'm going to make it here with work all the time. And they didn't respect that when I told them. Now it was my problem. So since I signed I decided to give them a chance, even though I was so disappointed with them already for how they treated me getting to sign. But guess what? The classes they had didn't work for me. I worked each of those days and I would spend an hour in traffic each time. So I explained to them I won't be able to make it like I told them before I signed! They then said they will start classes on a certain day which did work for me.

So I agreed to try that. I had to wait about 2 months to begin classes. Driving an hour in traffic each time. The classes really don't teach u anything crazy or important. You literally can Google and Youtube all the information they give you for free instead of waste money on this place. I also sent numerous emails to Tim the casting guy to get audition for the Ghostbuster and The Code like they had told me when I was signing, and you know what he said??? I wasn't qualified for those auditions!!! Ha!!! But they sold me that dream before I signed and said I would be perfect for those parts!!! Wow. I was so aggravated with these people. Anyways I stopped going to these classes after 4 of them because it's a waste of my time. And decided I will cancel my membership so at least I wouldn't have to pay the full balance. And I would have to just be in shame with myself for signing with people and a company like this.

Well... It gets worse. So canceled my membership sometime after I stopped going. And they told me I had to pay full balance. I said "Why?" And said "I took 10 classes when I only took 4." I was literally arguing with the girl "Gigi" from the front desk. She was very rude and unkind. If I ever wanted to talk to Toula she was never available to talk. (Even though she is in the building.) I asked to speak with corporate. She said "there is no corporate." Then she says again later that she will not give me corporate's number because she doesn't want to get in trouble. I even spoke with the Connecticut location to see if they can help me get in touch with corporate. She sent them an email but explained to me that John Casablanca likes to keep a good reputation so they don't talk to anyone (including the students)!!!

I then realized how horrible this company is! Trying to keep a clean image when it's the opposite. Like a wolf in a sheep costume!! I spoke with the financing company. They are sooo rude. They say I have to pay, I can't even speak with corporate first they said or it will go to collections. So I can't get in contact with corporate, I'm forced to pay because they only say... And I can't even get clarification of this from a professional corporate personnel!! I explained to everyone I talked to how I was treated and persuaded by these people... And all they say is "I didn't have to sign" and I guess they say even "if I'm not at the class it still counts as me taking a class!?!? This place is a joke!!! hahahaha.. But it's ok for them to lie and then heavily persuade you with crap to make you sign?! They even suggested I just continue the classes instead of leave since I have to pay in full anyways.. Yea right I will never attend ever again!!!

I will pay this large amount of money over time because I can't afford it but I am a strong believer in karma, and the way John Casablancas runs things is not right... And you can't even tell the corporate because they only want and care for your money. I am telling everyone my experience with John Casablancas and please take my advice!! They are a scam. At first trick you into coming to them and then sell you the dream!! Heavily persuade you to sign!!! They are not professional!! And when you need to speak with the director or corporate office they will give you the runaround!!! DO NOT SIGN UP WITH JC!!! There are plenty more professional and cheaper places in Boston!! Thanks for listening and reading me vent out my experience. I hope this helps out anyone wondering about this place! Take my word for it!!! So much time/energy/money wasted for nothing.

She wanted to know if I was in the country or out and who the commercial was for. Then she rudely stated that she would note my contact information of my schedule and how she needed to get off the phone with me so she could call other candidates that could make an appointment with her tomorrow. First of all, I was returning her call and secondly, you do not tell a potential client that. The lack of class she shown on that call, revealed to me that this is a scam. If any models/actors are successful with this agency could have been more successful via another agent, because this one clearly makes a good compensation for each 'head' they have on the roster. I will not be wasting my time meeting with them next week should she call again, I have better things to do when I return home like read a few film scripts that are waiting for my arrival.

We went for the song and dance and sure enough, they pressured her into a 'contract'. There were classes on how to apply fingernail polish! You parents out here looking to make a star out of your daughter or whatever, don't go to these people, they are NOT a credible agency filled with 'scouts' in the know. NEVER PAY FOR ANYTHING FROM PLACES LIKE THIS! Have your daughter take some head shots, body shots, and send to an agent who can give you direction from there. Stop falling for this BS by folks who are looking to make money off of your naivete. RESEARCH and STAY AWAY FROM JOHN CASABLANCAS!!!

My "instructors" knew I was not happy because I told them I wasn't, but still told me to put something nice on the comment sheets they hand out, because it reflects their reputations there & they didn't want to lose their jobs, so of course I did. I only attended a few classes, and wanted my money back. I canceled my payments. Told them I wasn't satisfied at all. They said it didn't matter if I attended the classes or not. That the $1200 was a tuition fee because they were not an agency but a school. I refused to pay. They sent me a letter threatening to send me to collections, and stated in there, legal actions would be taken. So I retaliated. They would never return my phone calls, so when I finally got someone to answer, it basically turned into a screaming match.

The Education Agency they are part of were the most disrespectful people I have ever been in contact with, unbelievable how they talk to the costumers. They kept saying well you signed the contract so you can only blame yourself, which of course is true, it was basically my word against theirs. I hired a lawyer to call them & threaten them back. They never returned my phone calls or my lawyer's. I filed a complaint with the BBB. During that time I found a modeling agent that helped me. He gets 15% of what I make. I got a response from the Vice president stating how he was happy that I got a modeling career after attending these classes.

I couldn't help but laugh at this idiot & write him back and say, it's amazing after only attending 3 classes: 1 of which was talking about picking a part to act out (which I don't act at all), 2 was how to put on makeup & listening to my instructor cough the whole time (because she's a chain smoker), 3 taking a photo shoot (where all my pictures turned out terrible). So please stay away from these people. They really are a scam. Only very very few make it. It's true not everyone can be rich & famous but you don't want to get into debt with people that really don't anything from you but money.

Now, I was lucky enough to know that if a company is legit, you NEVER pay them to work for THEM. I made an account just to tell you all that if you look at other companies, and they ask you to pay them ANY fees, then they are a scam. They will not find you work, they will take your money and run. I've had friends do it and tell me that I didn't know what I was talking about because they thought I was just being jealous. DO NOT PAY A COMPANY TO WORK FOR THEM. I have no idea how to get a legit agent, or how to get into legit acting or modeling. But I do know that if they want you to pay for classes, a portfolio or ANYTHING, they are out to scam you for your money.

I asked how long will that take. She said "a few mins." Funny because it was around 8:30 pm & 4 of those offices were empty. Then she starts talking money & payment plans & $472.00 deposit. I ask if my daughter had to commit that day. She said no but they had a waiting list of people trying to get in. Then she took her deposit price down to $100 after my daughter said she had that much in her account for bills. So the lady ask me if I can lend the money to my daughter and I tell her "no, I am a housewife & my husband makes those decisions."

She ask me to call him and I say no because he would want to be there to hear everything. We ask if there is a way we could come back next week with the deposit and she says no. Then she says that we have a really weird family situation and that we are not supportive parents and tells my daughter, "I don't think this isn't for you" and escorts us out. We left with our dignity & money thanks to all of you. Because I have a great paying job, my daughter did have the money and we could have made the mistake and joined, but it was a scam.

After investigating, the letter was finally received by John Casablanca. After speaking to the representative who I initially signed with, she informed me that I only had three days to withdrawal from the program and since it was five days, I would not be entitled to a refund. I was very upset because I never even attended a class or received any books or supplies. Now I keep getting the run around about my money. I don't think this is right and I plan on getting an attorney. I can see if I had attended a single class or received any supplies, but nothing, and they still say they are entitled to keep my down payment. I think this place is scamming people out of money. I plan on investigating until I get my money back. I can understand them taking an administrative fee, but no more that $50. Watch out for John Casablanca in Charlotte, NC. They not right.

When I came in I was very excited and everyone seemed nice and genuine for the most part. They signed me in and sent me for my headshots and then put me in the runway room with about 20 other people. The "big dogs" came in and gave their whole spiel on how amazing John Casablancas is and they even showed us the audition video from Smiley Cyrus' first gig and told us that they made that happen. By the end of their presentation they split us up into 3 groups and I walked away with like 7 other strangers and a woman named **. ** told us that she was going to set up an appointment with each of us the following day and I was first.

I went in the next day and she told me that I was selected to be one of their students. That's when things started to take a turn for the worst. After she told me that the price of the school was $3000 and she made up a payment plan for me I attempted to reject the contract. I explained to her that it was too much, I was a broke college student living on my own, and I couldn't afford it in top of the $40K I already had to pay for school. Then she asked if my mother would be willing to help pay and she told me that if my mother wanted me to succeed and be happy she would do this for me and then she even told me that I could use the $1400 that I got for school each month to pay for it.

This angered and appalled me however I suffer from anxiety and when I'm put into tight situations I get nervous. I felt pressured and scared and so even after several attempts to not sign the contract, ** had me sign and took $200 from me. After that I tried to stay positive and keep in touch with ** however after about 2 weeks and 3 short phone conversations she stopped answering my calls. Sometime after that I heard from her again and she said since I had been gone she would have to recontract me and she took another $100 from me and then doubled my payments and turned them from biweekly to weekly. I attended all of 1 class and never got the chance to go back because after that class they told me they would call me and set up my next class. They never did and after a while I got tired of feeling played.

I didn't hear from them for months until one day they left me a voicemail on my phone asking me to come in and make a payment. I started to research only how to officially quit and found out I had to send a letter to them telling them that I wanted to cancel my contract. Before I could send my letter I received a letter from the NEA National Education Agreement telling me that I owed them a total of $466.98. I was absolutely mortified. I didn't have that much money and if I did I wouldn't be able to give it to these people who I have never heard of before and will not be giving that much money to. John Casablancas is a total scam and a terrible place. I would never recommend it to anyone and I have definitely learned my lesson. Never NEVER doing this again.

I enrolled my daughter in classes and she was THRILLED. She worked hard at this. She has gotten jobs. Sure everyone wants to land that perfect job and become famous. In the real world that is not how it works. Training, & coaching is what gets you there. If you read extensively on any famous person they will recite how they received a lot of no's before they get a yes. No one starts at the top. Look at JLO she was a dancer, then she did Selena, then she broke out into music, movies, and now 20 YEARS later she is who she is today. That is just one example. The parents do not attend class so for the parents on here rating their classes it's EMPTY information. You have to give to get in life. Any agency you go to will review your portfolio but it is not unless they are interested that they will call.

Sure the classes have a cost. They are not ridiculous! 20 weeks of training, all your materials and a 2 shot photo shoot. You have to invest in yourself to make it in life. People spend 20k + a year for their kids to go to college and they come out of college making 30k. I'm not discrediting ANY University or saying that children should not attend college and go to modeling or acting school. I am saying if you have the means to put your children into a school/training that will develop their skills in something they love/want to do then do it. It's the same as putting kids in Cheer, or Football, or Volleyball. I spent almost $900 per year on Cheer.

Just because you are not promised to be famous or don't get calls after completing the training at John Casablanca's should not be a reason to go and bash them online. You can visit www.jcasablancas.com to read TALENT TESTIMONIALS. I'm very happy with my daughter's work schedule so far with JC. If I expected her to be rich and famous within a year or 5 years that would be unfair. If it happens it will happen. I know this is an option. It's a second job per se. We can't all be rich and famous.

So during the interview he started palm reading my hand, I think he must have previously searched my Instagram and Facebook pages because he was correct about a lot of things, but seriously who palm reads in an interview?! I was skeptical from that point on. He had me stand up and recite the line that I was told to memorize and he kept asking me if I was interested in acting even though I told him no numerous of times. So he told us to leave and asked us to call back to schedule another appointment and he asked me to bring my parents even though I'm 19. I told him my father works 2nd shift so he wasn't able to come, he asked if I had a job (which I do) & he said I could come back by myself.

So, when I got there he was talking about all this money that it would cost to go there. Which was expected because like any career, you need to invest something, but I didn't know I would have to pay THAT DAY!!! He wanted me to give him $450 that day. I didn't have that. I'm a college student with a part time job. All I had was $60. Of course, he told me that it only costs $50 to reserve a seat. But I'd still have to bring the other $400 on the day of my first class. I told him I would do that and I gave him $50, so all I had was $10 to last me 2 weeks (My mistake).

I had this gut feeling that I did the wrong thing and I researched the reviews and saw how awful they were rated. I had send a certified letter, in the letter they gave me they did say that if you withdraw within 5 days you could get a refund. You have to send a certified letter. I have sent that letter and I still don't have my money back. It's been exactly 30 days and I'm about to march up there and raise hell because I struggled like hell with only $10 in my name. I wish I would have read the reviews on this agency. They are liars, and frauds, and they aren't as great as they say they are. Never ever going back to them.

I got angry because my daughter been wanting this a while but this place is a scam. They said that Alyssa Milano was audition here but I don't believe that but I am just over it. I am just gonna find somewhere else to do it. Plus I should have not believed it in the first place because it's in CHARLOTTE. First of all all the real acting places are in hollywood California somewhere not in charlotte. LOLOLOLOL BUT DON'T DO IT. IT IS A FAT SCAM. NO JOKE. THEY GONNA ASK FOR SOME MONEY ...

She is heavily involved in the performing arts, has some local modeling experience (private designers), and wants a career in the entertainment industry. I wanted her to learn what to look out for but hoping they were legit. We arrived for the appointment and there were over 20 people there with maybe 3-4 others dressed as we were instructed. They moved people through like an assembly line - pictures, read a script, walk the runway and of course a very long overview of the agency and the talent they have nurtured. It became apparent that the audition was not for any opportunity but for the agency to "nurture."

The group was separated into two groups with no explanation regarding the nature of the separation. My granddaughter was given a callback and I thought I did expect a sales pitch, I did not expect it to be so poorly executed and in your face. According to the website, they conduct an evaluation - they don't. They ask everyone to give themselves an A, B, or C during the "audition." Everybody gets a B (or at least the vast majority) - in need of development. During the call back (sales pitch), the only assessment I could get was, "she has potential" - for what "modeling (she's over 5'7" and still growing) - runway, commercial, acting (she asked her)." Of course she is in "need of development" - when asked what specifically - everything on the list at a cost of $2,500 for 60 hours of instruction payable immediately.

When I informed the agent she was already taking acting classes on scholarship for 4 hours a week and performs as part of a youth ensemble at least three times a year, her response was that their training (JC) was geared more toward television and not the stage so it was different. When I asked what was the return on my investment, she couldn't answer. She also could not answer what proportion of their graduates actually got work - she said she didn't know, just a lot. There was no feedback on her photo shoot, script reading, or runway walk. Clearly she was not qualified to even make an assessment. Her job was to make a sale.

What is really insulting is not so much the intent on just selling classes but that they don't even try to do what they claim in their print materials - assessment, recommending appropriate training. It is unfortunate that so many people come in with hopes and dreams and get duped. They only value to time spent (3 hours) was that it was a learning experience for my granddaughter. Otherwise it is a total waste of time.

Realizing about all these I was very mad and sad because I felt as I put my money in the trash. I called them to say that I am not going anymore. They told me that was ok, but to cancel my contract I had to send a letter saying that. I send the letter (my letter was return, saying "no such number and unable to forward"), and a lot emails. But this days they send me a letter saying that I need pay $354.45 because in the contract it says that if you take less than 10 classes you will pay 20 %. I called them to say that I will not pay because first I don't have money and also because is unfair. When I called them, they make me talk with a lot people to give me an explanation and also they make me waited in the phone for a long time.

I don't know, what I can do, to make them stop calling me and stop send me letters. I also don't know if I am forced to pay that money or if that is one of the ways to get more money from me. I hope that nobody pass to the same thing that I am passing right now.

She also made sure to make a snide comment about my outfit under her breath (I was wearing a dress suit) but told me the classes would "teach" me how to dress for an interview. Very unprofessional company, they act like they're Ford or Elite. Oh and no matter how much experience or training you have they'll find something you can "fix" by taking their classes. I was so scared by how she treated me, I put a deposit down for the classes because of how much pressure I felt at the time but thank God I was smart enough to ask for a refund the next day. Which they didn't give back so easily, it took the threat of a lawyer to finally get my refund.

The training sucked, students were dropping out because they struggled keeping instructors to teach the classes. A lot of incorrect information was being given out. They were selling $$ stories rather teaching the students. If you are late on any payment they kick you out of the program immediately. When you show up for class, they send you home. You be lucky you get one extension. This they don't tell you when you sign up because it's about binding you to that signed $3,000 contract so you can't get out of it, and if you do, you will still owe them for that contract or they attack your credit report. Once they know you want out, they start sending you harassing letters to make you pay extra money. The 800 # ignore calls so they can say you did not call. They ignore your emails because they know if they respond you can use that email as a part of your evidence. They don't respond to your faxes.

YOU WILL HAVE TO OBTAIN AN ATTORNEY... I DID, AND THAT'S THE ONLY WAY THEY RESPONDED. Even then they were still sending me retaliation letters. It is still a headache dealing with this agency. After they get you in the contract, they keep referring you to low level people to avoid dealing with you. YOU MUST MAIL CERTIFIED LETTERS, OTHERWISE YOU WON'T GET FEEDBACK. Don't fall for the payment arrangement stuff... that will be used against you later.

This agency is the worst I ever experienced in the history of a casting agency. I WOULD NOT REFER THIS AGENCY EVEN TO MY WORST ENEMY. It's devastating, and so sad to see so many people lose their money off of hyped stories about some 80 year old model that makes 4 million. Get copies of everything, and the sales package they sell you on to sign up. I'm still fighting my case through an attorney!!! Nobody has money to waste on something like this when trying to make money! MAKE A UTURN AND GO THE OTHER WAY! As I learned later, anytime you have to pay for representation, walk away. They represent you for free until they earn you your first paycheck!

It took till after all the classes for me to realize I have been completed scammed! JC does not bother to contact after you've gave them your money, and the reliable agents that are supposed to help you become known are bs, the people who join JC are at the bottom of their priorities. It's like spending money and loads of time for something absolutely pointless! John Casablancas gives hope to every one that they are "model material," and that JC will help to bring it out. However, most successful people from JC were all model material to begin with, and the instructors didn't teach **! Bottom line, don't waste your money! Total scam!

In my 39 years, I have never stolen anything from anyone and I have always worked hard for everything I have ever gotten. What the hell do I need to steal less than $120.00 from someone who may be broker than I am!! BEWARE of **, she is not very professional at all. It makes me wonder if she accused me because I am the only black person she saw and she may have thought we all steal. I am black, but I am no thief.

Due to the fact that my daughter and I could not do either one of those days I requested a full refund and out of the contract via e-mail as directed. I was e-mailed back by the school director saying they would let me out of the contract and a refund was requested. The following day I received a phone call from the director explaining I was only getting back $300.00 and not the $350.00 for my deposit. I explained how I did not break the contract of any fault of ours that they changed the dates and they broke the contract. Still waiting for my $300.00 refund and I will be filing a small claims against them for the balance. Sorry I ever did this!!!

Original Review: Feb. 18, 2015

John Casablancas Columbus is nothing but a scam. An hour after signing up with them, I wanted to cancel. I spoke to the front desk before the class begin that I wanted to cancel. Then Brett (who is the person I signed up with) told me to see him after class. When he asked for a reason I told him that I can't afford it. He told me to call the next day to cancel. So I called the next day and spoke to Cassie Who took my name and number and promised they will call me back. After two hours I called again and got the same response. I kept calling everyday for the next two weeks.

Never got a call back, after two weeks I decided to go in, I walked in and told Cassie at the front desk that I don't appreciate the run around, and that I just want to cancel and get my $470 back . She told me that only Kurt and some other lady can cancel my membership and none of them is there, but promised someone will call me the next day. The next day I got a call from Brett **. At first he was nice and said is there anything we can do to stay with them, I told him no, and I don't like the fact that I been getting the run around, then he turned rude and really unprofessional.

I finally received my first tax return statement from John Casablancas, and I noticed that the social security number was incorrect. I called the office to make the simple correction, but the only reply I received was, "Well, it's only a small amount of money anyway so it's not like it really matters, but you can e-mail me your correct information and I'll see what I can do." Clearly, the owner does not really care about her employees. She just worries about making her own money. After I pick up my last check, I am never working for John Casablancas again, not as a "model" nor with the office.

This review is coming from someone who actually went through the classes and worked "behind the scenes." Do not sign up with John Casablancas. Unless you have thousands of dollars to throw away, then I guess you can take your chances. But John Casablancas is a franchise, and each owner of each JC office only cares about making as much money as they can, with giving the least amount of representation for their "clients."

We were also told that we would get notifications and leads on modeling jobs, but what we got was a booklet (similar to the Apartment Guide) with names and addresses of all the modeling agencies in the United States. I could have used Google for that and not have to pay $2,500. After 4 weeks of attendance my daughter did not want to go back because it was such a waste of time.

The picture pricing is outrageous. They teach you things that you already know - i.e. makeup, phone etiquette, eye contact, etc. Do not waste your time or money on John Casablancas pull up things like free auditions.com or auditions for your areas. Most of which are free and can get you the same contacts and John Casablancas. It's not necessarily a scam because I have been working but definitely not worth $2000.

Explore Talent another scam. Do not pay for that service. Casting 360 is a scam - do not pay!! DO NOT PAY JC!!! However, they do have scholarships available so it would be worth 2 hours a week if you can do it for free. The outcome can be very profitable. I finished about 5 months ago. I have worked an average of 4 days out of each month on both movies - one reality show and a few fashion shows. DO YOUR RESEARCH.

So I get there and Quincy gets to me, and I stand up and he's like “Oh I already made my decision. You can have a seat!” I then meet with Rhonda and she asks me what have I done as far as modeling and I tell her - and I also mention I'm not paying for anything. I let her know before she even said I had to - that I feel like I shouldn't have to pay for anything as far modeling because I've gotten plenty of paid gigs without paying anything! She then gives me the small fish in a big sea story, blah, blah. I let her talk then she said “Well you know Quincy likes you and I'm going to really talk to him about you know you going to the agency because you passed the schooling. But just come with $375 just in case because you don't have a trailer from the commercial you shot.” Which was Under Armour 4 weeks ago. They don't release that type of stuff to the models, or a resume, or photos.

So then says “Well when you come in tomorrow, we can discuss our decision.” I'm looking like tomorrow lady - I live 45 min away. I'm not driving over here again but I'm going to go just to cuss them out if they think about mentioning money to me! To all the inspiring models, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, if anyone mentions money to you RUN! Always remember if the agency believes in you they will accept you and take their own pics or even maybe accept cell phone pics! Trust me that's how I got the Under Armour commercial which they paid me for! NEVER PAY TO MODEL - GET PAID TO MODEL!!!

Photographers are not well experienced since they give you the pictures you ordered, photoshopped to the point that is very un-natural and very noticeable on top of that you end up looking like a porcelain doll (not in a good way) and you do your own hair and makeup for the shoots as well. They give you hope that you are investing in your future and make it seem like this will definitely help you when in reality you probably could've learned more by watching youtube videos and doing research online for free. DO NOT FALL FOR THIS PLEASE, I wasted $3,000 and still kicking myself for doing so.

After the runway appearance, the employees got together to view the film of candidates and decide who would be chosen. They then pulled candidates individually into an office to tell them the result of their analysis. In our session, we were told how fortunate our son was, since he was chosen as a B and had potential. We were asked to come back in an hour for a more in depth interview. A B requires months of training at their facility to learn how to be a model, actor, etc. This is a fee of $1600 or in payments with interest rate of 18%. This was a Saturday, and since the classes theoretically started on Monday, we had to make a decision immediately and sign a contract because there were very limited spaces in the kids classes. When we asked to get a copy of the price sheet so we could study it, the sales rep went to make a copy. Instead, the manager came in to talk with us. He had a real attitude, and we asked how the evaluation process worked, giving everybody a B, even though the majority obviously had no potential or the looks for modeling.

As it turned out, even admittedly by the manager when questioned, that everyone is a B regardless of what they look like, their personality, how they did on the runway, etc. That is because they could not discriminate against someone because of the way they look or act. Amazing. So the whole evaluation process is just part of the sales pitch to stroke peoples ego. The manager stated that they did the runway portion so everybody could have some fun. When he finally realized we were not going to be easily suckered, he told us that he no longer had interest in working with us. He obviously did not want to deal with anyone that might cause him trouble. If you are really serious about modeling, find another way to get in the business with a different agency, because you will not get any objective opinions here and you might as well throw your money in the garbage.

Hold on a sec, I'm just questioning this email. Discuss this with my support team, (because they want you to bring your family and friends there in case you can't afford the classes so you can ask your family to loan you money). I'm a 34 year old male here. Now since I asked you and you answered me after I seen the reviews on the net that you use high sales tactics to get people to take classes, and your rep told me after I questioned her about it. I mean how many people have you embarrassed in front of their families by not telling them upfront what your whole pitch is about? I mean my support team could have consisted friends and family, and you would have pitched me classes in front of them, while you gave me the impression that I was coming there to get signed for gigs.

Do you know how embarrassing that would have been if I didn't question you about it? You need to change your infrastructure to tell the people before they come out there the first time that you will pitch them the classes sales pitch because you rank everyone a 'B' unless they are actually famous like let's say 50 Cents came through there, you wouldn't try to hustle him for $1650 for classes because you know you can book him right away. So basically, this is what I gathered on how you operate. Then that's the case with me, you obviously did the research on me, and your agreed to offer to charge me for 1650$ out weighted the potential of making million dollars off of me and my number 1 victim of crime credentials. You went for the sure petty money of $1650 instead of what you was pitching me at the first interview all the 20% agent fees.

I thought about your rep Che** when I left and from looking at her it was clear she wasn't making the 20% so she was probably getting a weekly salary(!) while the agency got the 20%. And one last thing, I would like your agency there at the Columbus, Ohio branch where I was at especially Che** to tell me how many famous people she knows? Because I'm known and know Presidents and Prime Ministers in the world and have corresponded with them, including the president and prime ministers of Ireland, Germany, Australia, etc. I bet she can't name one successful famous person she knows or has done business with in the world. And I'm sure it wasn't all her decision to rank me a B. Then you also downgrade people telling them there is plenty people in line if they ain't showing interest in classes, and you tell them they are not ready.

My mentality is on a presidential level, while I'm known by international criminal court judges and prosecutors. My mentality is far way more safe, respectable, honorable, compared to the little girl you had working at that office, for her to have the nerve to tell me I'm not ready or need a lot of work, just to get the 1650$ from me for classes. (Bottom line, the company should loosen up a bit. It seems like they won't do business with anyone unless you spend the class money with them, and doesn't seem like a confident company picking people and giving them a chance based on their real talent, only giving them a chance based on if they buy classes.)

My daughter has been approached by this group numerous times, so I finally relented and took her to an audition to satisfy her curiosity. I was told by management that the entire process would only take an hour. Before the auditions began. It was explained to us that classes were needed to give students the appropriate experience required to work in the industry. (Hmm, this is already different from what the manager voiced over the phone.) Immediately following the auditions, where children and parents were asked over and over again about their "commitment" to continuing on with a career in acting or modeling, we were asked to wait for an extended period of time in the lobby area. After being shown to the manager's office, we were left there for another extended period of time. Altogether, we were at JC for almost 2 hours. (Yet another difference from what was promised over the phone.)

I recognized these tactic as tools that used car salesmen employ. They want to use up lots of your time, so you feel like your time has been wasted if you walk out the door empty handed. They also want to be sure that they aren't wasting their time by ensuring a sale to a "committed" buyer. They want assurance that you are "committed" right away. As though you are supposed to commit yourself to buy a product or program sight unseen, based on the "commitment" they continuously ask you to voice. They were asking me to commit to purchase these classes that I was told repeatedly were not necessary in order to work with the agency.

They used several other tactics that used car salesmen share with the JC agency. They asked parents to elaborate on their children and the sales people pretended to care about the child's accomplishment. As though those accomplishments made some difference toward the end goal of the sales person selling you classes. They also attempted to befriend me, as the parental with the wallet they wanted access to. I recognized these tactics right away, and knew them for what they were. Tools of manipulation.

Lastly, and most offensive. When it became clear that I was not going to open my wallet to them, both the manager and staff member present voiced, "Don't worry. There are lots of girls who are fully committed." It was a passive aggressive attempt at the worst kind of insulting manipulation. I wasn't the least bit worried and gave them both a strange look because it was clear that they were trying to offend me into spending my money. As though giving them my cash was the only way to prove that myself and my child were capable of the laudable goal of being "committed". One of the sales reps, who was disguised as a talent scout and agent, repeated this little "Don't worry..." statement three different times. I guess she didn't like my lack of response?

In the end, the entire experience was a life lesson for my daughter on how to both spot and avoid the hard sell employed by used car salesmen, timeshare salesmen, and the other John Casablanca type agencies of the world. I suppose she was lucky to have her mother with her for her first hard sell experience. Maybe she'll learn something from it, and avoid being a victim to these hard sell predators in the future.

He don't care how old you are. My friend's cousin was 16. She said he would call her saying the same thing, and her grandma paid her payments and got sick so she put her credit cards on hold until she get out. She said MIKE ** HUNG UP ON HER GRANDMA when she was telling him she sick and in the hospital. HE YELLED AT HER AND TOLD HER THAT'S NOT HIS PROBLEM!!! Her grandma told me about it. I told her he did that to me and my mom hung up right in her face!!!! RUDE. I HOPE HE GETS WHAT HE PUT OUT TREATING PEOPLE THAT WAY.

So they love the kids. It's an easy prey. They know all that good talk will fill their ears up and that get the money out them parents' pockets, but truly, THEY ONLY WANT THAT MONEY!!!! That's all. Believe me, it's the truth!!! I wish I never sign up. I hate that I still have them on my back. When I get my loan money from school, I'm paying them off just so they can leave me alone. Don't think I will go back, so if you do go, GOOD LUCK and you might blossom. Don't let no one take your dream away, BUT THE GREAT THINGS IN LIFE DON'T COME EASY OR FREE!!! You're better off getting a portfolio and going to the modeling agency yourself.

When we got there, we signed in and asked for the script that Theresa said we would get so my daughter could practice. No script, but rather a woman from "New York City" gave a speech about how if you are paying any money right now to anyone, you are being ripped off, that no agent should charge more than minimum wage and that you are wasting your time and money if you go to conventions, etc... She said, "Good looks aren't enough. You need to go to a good school." But she didn't tell us right then that this whole evening was designed to get you to sign up for their school, NOT to audition for a commercial.

She went on talking about how models make $350 per hour, yada yada yada... Then they had everyone cat walk down a runway and even pose for the "judges" at the end! I noticed that everyone got a callback appointment for the next day. Even people who seriously could NEVER be a model and if the way they carried themselves is any indication could Never be an actor either! When my daughter got to the end of the runway, they told us how cute she was, asked if dad supports her becoming a "famous model/actor" and asked about our level of commitment to drive an hour and half away every week for classes.

The really gross part is that they told the group, “Almost everyone got an appointment tonight to come back tomorrow, but half of you will be cut. To not do this in public, we will call you by 10am tomorrow. So no call means WE WANT YOU." Seriously, how stupid do you think we are?! Obviously no one gets a call but all of us who don't, consider ourselves lucky. No one knows that no one gets a call. Then they tell us that if we don't get a call, to come prepared with a $ deposit tomorrow for their exclusive school and that they only take 15 people per class. What they don't tell you is that there are an UNLIMITED number of classes. They will take ANYONE willing to pay.

In reviewing the events of the evening, I suspect there were even plants in the group who got picked for the "A" group (we are ready to sign you up for John Casablancas) and who were rejected in the C group (C U later group). I think they all work for JC! Luckily I researched that night and saw all the scam complaints. REALLY- PREYING OFF OF ALL THE NAIVE HOPEFULS?! This was my daughter's first exposure to this dog eat dog world. The people at JC are like sharks circling anyone who has a dream and is star-struck by the slightest chance to make it. Buyer beware.

I should've left right then, but she talked to me about it. Because I thought it was the real deal, I left a one hundred dollar deposit in cash. As soon as I got home, I saw all of the horrible reviews and realized how obvious it was the entire time. Do not be fooled by these people. All they want is your money. I called for a refund and she said it is my right. Yet, she continued to be difficult and give me the runaround.

Real aspiring photographers are more than willing to work with potential models for no cost at all. Just do not let this place, these people or this experience to deter you from reaching your dreams! Ford Models is a much more reliable company. Try them instead, but make sure to do research first! Fraud and theft are not legal and they will not get away with treating innocent people this way.

I received a call a couple of weeks later, and they wanted me to come in for an interview. So I drove all the way to Scottsdale, AZ from Flagstaff, AZ. Even though I was supposed to be there for an interview as I was told, I ended up getting put into an audition. I did really good on acting out my commercial script and on the runway, even with my broken foot in a cast. The talent scouts currently there were Tim and Tina. They gave me a B rating and asked me to come back in the following week. I did as such and sat down with Tim in his office. He tried to say that I had a bad attitude just because I had questions about how much it was going to cost me to take this school, and he didn't seem qualified to answer them. Not to mention that he accused me of not cancelling the meeting the day before when the only reason I didn't is because John Casablanca's had already called me and cancelled the appointment and rescheduled it themselves for a later day.

Two weeks later, I received a call from the secretary saying that Janet Lovelace, the director wanted to have an individual interview with me. I said okay and made an appointment for the following week. The next week, I received a call from Janet cancelling our meeting. However, she did say she would call back and reschedule; some things had just come up. To my disappointment, I never got a call back from her directly.

About two weeks later, I got a message on my phone saying that they have a new talent scout and they would like to take a look at me. I went back in auditioned again for Tina and the new talent scout Scott. I did my runway again and acted out another commercial, and again both talent scouts seemed real impressed and Scott said they gave me a B rating as well. I was to call back Monday to see what they say. I just got off of that phone call and was told they don't need me right now. I feel like I am being left in the dark or judged on some outside issue and not my acting when I am getting a B rating.

John Casablanca's own definition is "you have potential, but need to be trained and developed." Well, they are a modeling and career center and what they are supposed to do with a B-rated auditioning potential models is to train and develop them, or so the paper I was given at the auditions says. I am doing everything that is expected of me, yet I am still being given the run around and kept in the dark about my career opportunity. I still look forward to working with John Casablanca's but need to have a little insight on what's going on with me there.

The next day my husband and I agreed that driving 100+ miles round trip in rush hour for this is insane. We also read thousands of online reports of this being a scam while the positive reports were few and far between. We called (yes we both spoke to Brittany the sales lady) and said we will not be able to do this. She confused me and changed my no to a maybe. Then she said, she needs to talk to her boss, her boss said I need to start Wednesday but eventually can transfer to a Saturday class. Over the next few days, we kept telling them "no" and they continuously ignored my refusal to join the school, insisting I show up.

I was scammed out of 300 dollars and now they want $1, 740 from me even though I told them I don't want to be in the school. The day after we went there, my husband was let go from his job. We are desperate for our $300 and terrified of my credit score being ruined by these greedy people that can't take no for an answer and prey on week and non assertive people. How sad! Please help!