An scam investigation into the controversial talent service that promises Hollywood access—for a price
In an era where social media stardom and streaming content have created unprecedented demand for new faces in entertainment, aspiring actors and models are more eager than ever to break into the industry. Nine9, self-described as an “UnAgency,” has positioned itself as a stepping stone for these dreamers—particularly the “99% not represented by major agencies.” But a growing chorus of complaints, investigations, and industry warnings paint a concerning picture of this Birmingham, Michigan-based business that claims to connect talent with opportunity.
What is Nine9?
Founded in 2003 (originally as One Source Talent), Nine9 presents itself as an alternative to traditional talent agencies. According to their marketing materials, they serve talent “of all ethnicities and from age 3 to 86” through a unique business model that differs from conventional representation.
Nine9 claims to “shake up the current entertainment business model” by providing services including:
- Virtual workshops
- Headshot, comp card and resume advice
- Access to casting calls
- Submission to potential roles in film, television, and modeling
Their website showcases testimonials from talent who allegedly landed roles on major productions like Ozark, Cobra Kai, and even blockbusters like Wonder Woman after joining Nine9.
The Business Model: How Nine9 Operates
Unlike traditional talent agencies that earn commission only when their clients book work (typically 10-20% of earnings), Nine9 operates on a fee-based structure:
- Initial fee: $99 onboarding/setup charge (previously $499)
- Monthly subscription: $39.95 recurring fee
- Contract terms: Month-to-month service that can allegedly be canceled anytime
This fundamental difference—charging talent upfront rather than earning from their bookings—forms the center of controversy surrounding Nine9’s legitimacy.
The VICE Scam Investigation: Inside an “UnAgency”
In February 2020, VICE’s “One Star Reviews” series sent host Taji to investigate Nine9 after discovering its abysmal online ratings. The resulting expose revealed several concerning practices:
During the filmed visit, Nine9 representatives:
- Charged $499 upfront plus a $39.95 monthly fee
- Took basic “Polaroid” photos at their office
- Arranged a photoshoot with multiple “looks”
- Made vague promises about potential opportunities
- Became defensive when questioned about negative reviews
Perhaps most telling was when the host asked about negative reviews, prompting a representative to shift from their earlier claim of “if you have a thought about acting, try it” to “nobody should invest unless they’re 100% committed”—a classic high-pressure sales tactic.
The photographer working with Nine9 also raised eyebrows by claiming not to know who Biggie Smalls was, despite operating in Brooklyn where the legendary rapper was born—raising questions about the company’s actual industry connections.
A Tidal Wave of Complaints Against Nine9
Since the VICE investigation, complaints about Nine9 have only increased. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile for Nine9 reveals:
- A “Not Rated” status with the BBB “evaluating a pattern of complaints”
- A “Pattern of Complaints” alert on their profile
- 105 total complaints in the past 3 years (47 in the last 12 months)
- Average customer rating of 1.23/5 stars from 102 reviews
Recent complaints filed in 2024-2025 consistently cite:
1. Misleading Marketing Tactics
Nine9 frequently advertises “open casting calls” for popular shows like Stranger Things, Scream 7, and Law & Order: SVU. When interested talent join the advertised Zoom calls, they discover these are actually sales presentations for Nine9’s subscription service.
As one 2025 reviewer stated:
They marketed an open casting call for Stranger Things. I was interested so I reached out to the company and immediately heard back… this is a known scam.
2. Hidden Fee Structure
Many complainants report that Nine9 representatives emphasize the “one-time” $99 fee during sales presentations while downplaying or entirely omitting mention of the recurring $39.95 monthly charge.
A February 2025 complainant noted:
On the zoom call they lure you in by telling you there is a 1 time fee of $99.99. They tell you up front that $99.99 is the only fee you have to pay. After a month they have tried to charge my card for a monthly subscription fee of $39.95, which they never mentioned at any point during the call.
3. High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Reviews consistently mention being told they must sign up immediately at the end of the Zoom presentation or lose the opportunity entirely—a classic pressure tactic designed to prevent research or consideration.
4. Difficulty Canceling Services
Multiple complaints detail problems canceling subscriptions and obtaining refunds, with representatives becoming unresponsive or creating additional hurdles.
Nine9’s Defense Strategy
When confronted with complaints, Nine9 has developed a consistent defense strategy:
- Semantic Distinction: They emphasize they are not an “agency” but a “subscription service,” attempting to sidestep industry standards and regulations that apply to talent agencies.
- Blame the Customer: They often suggest complainants misunderstood their services despite “thorough explanations” during virtual calls.
- Appeal to Legitimacy: Nine9 frequently cites their BBB accreditation (though they currently lack a rating) and longevity in business as proof of legitimacy.
- Selective Refunds: They sometimes offer refunds to complainants who file formal reports, while maintaining their general “no refund” policy for most customers.
In a typical response to a BBB complaint, Nine9 stated:
We are not an agency and do not market ourselves or operate as such. The fee talent pay is for access to casting calls and training courses taught by industry professionals.
Red Flags: How to Protect Yourself
Industry professionals and former Nine9 customers point to several warning signs that apply not just to Nine9 but to any questionable talent service:
1. Upfront Fees
Legitimate talent agencies work on commission, earning a percentage only when you book work. As one industry professional noted in response to the VICE video: “Agencies don’t get paid upfront! If they’re asking to get paid before you get paid, it’s a dead giveaway they’re a scam.”
2. Misrepresentation of Casting Opportunities
Casting directors for major productions like Stranger Things have explicitly stated they do not work with Nine9. Be skeptical of any company claiming exclusive access to high-profile projects.
3. High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Any legitimate industry professional will encourage you to research your options, not pressure you to sign up immediately.
4. Vague Success Stories
Nine9’s testimonials lack specific, verifiable details about productions and roles allegedly booked through their service.
5. Misleading Marketing
Advertisements for specific casting opportunities that turn into general service pitches are a major warning sign.
Communication Patterns to Watch For
Nine9’s approach to potential customers follows a recognizable pattern:
- Initial Contact: Ads on social media platforms (particularly Instagram) advertising specific casting opportunities for popular shows.
- Quick Response: Immediate follow-up via text and email to schedule a “virtual open call.”
- Zoom Presentation: A structured sales pitch disguised as a casting opportunity, with limited ability for attendees to ask questions (often restricted to Q&A boxes rather than unmuted participation).
- Pressure Point: End of call push to sign up immediately with claims the opportunity will not be available later.
- Follow-Up Harassment: Multiple complainants report receiving persistent texts and calls if they don’t sign up, often with claims about new “exclusive” opportunities.
Protecting Yourself in the Entertainment Industry
For those genuinely interested in pursuing acting or modeling careers, industry professionals recommend:
- Research legitimate agencies in your area through industry databases or union resources (SAG-AFTRA provides listings)
- Submit directly to casting calls through platforms like Actors Access, Backstage, or Casting Networks
- Never pay upfront fees for representation
- Verify casting information through official production channels
- Join relevant unions when eligible (SAG-AFTRA, AEA) for additional protection
- Be wary of “opportunities” promoted primarily through social media ads
Verdict: Is Nine9 a Scam?
After analyzing hundreds of reviews, complaints, and industry standards, the evidence points to Nine9 operating with deeply problematic business practices that many in the industry consider predatory. While Nine9 may provide some nominal services in exchange for the fees they collect, their practices align with what most industry professionals would classify as a “pay-to-play” scheme rather than legitimate representation.
Key factors supporting this conclusion:
- Their fee structure contradicts established industry standards
- Numerous complaints about misleading marketing tactics
- Testimonials that cannot be independently verified
- Multiple instances of casting directors denying any association with them
- A consistent pattern of complaints spanning years
- A business model that profits regardless of whether talent books work
While Nine9 carefully avoids certain technical definitions of “scam” by providing some service in exchange for payment, the question remains whether those services deliver anything close to the value and opportunities implied in their marketing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Nine9 Legitimate?
While Nine9 is a registered business that provides some services, their practices contradict industry standards for legitimate talent representation. Their business model of charging upfront fees rather than working on commission raises significant concerns about their value proposition.
2. Do I Need to Pay Money to Get Acting Work?
No. Legitimate talent agents and managers earn money only when you do, taking a percentage of your earnings after you book work. While you may eventually need professional headshots, these should be obtained independently, not as part of a package deal with representation.
3. Can Nine9 Get Me on Shows Like Stranger Things?
Multiple casting directors, including those for Stranger Things, have explicitly stated they do not work with Nine9. Major productions typically cast through established channels including union submissions, recognized talent agencies, and specific casting directors.
4. What Should I Do If I’ve Already Signed Up?
Review your agreement for cancellation terms, contact your bank or credit card company about potentially disputing charges, and document all communications. File complaints with consumer protection agencies if you believe you were misled.
5. I Received a Text About an Acting Opportunity from Nine9 Asking for Upfront Fees. Is It a Scam?
Yes, this is a major red flag. Legitimate casting opportunities never require upfront payment to audition or be considered for roles. Based on numerous complaints, Nine9 frequently sends texts advertising specific casting opportunities (for shows like Stranger Things or Cobra Kai) to lure people into their sales presentations. These texts are marketing tactics, not genuine casting offers. In the entertainment industry, the standard practice is that talent never pays to audition or be submitted for roles.
6. Are All Non-Traditional Talent Services Scams?
No, but approach any service charging upfront fees with extreme caution. Some legitimate coaching services, workshops with working professionals, and educational programs exist—but these should be transparent about costs and never promise work or representation as a result.
Conclusion: Dreams vs. Reality
The allure of fame and creative fulfillment makes the entertainment industry fertile ground for questionable business practices. Nine9’s “UnAgency” model appears designed to operate in a gray area—technically not an agency but marketing to the same audience with promises of similar outcomes.
The consistent pattern of complaints across multiple years indicates these are not isolated incidents but rather fundamental aspects of their business model. With average ratings of just 1.23 stars out of 5 from over 100 reviewers, the verdict from former customers is clear.
As one industry professional succinctly put it in a BBB review: “Real talent agents work on commission, they do not charge fees. It’s illegal to charge someone to audition or for representation from a talent agency.”
For aspiring talents, the path to legitimate opportunity may be longer and more challenging than Nine9’s promises suggest—but it won’t begin with a credit card charge.
This article represents an investigation into publicly available information about Nine9. The company was contacted for comment but did not respond by publication time.
