Peter Q. Nguyen: The Next Generation of Talent Managers in Hollywood with Quintessential Talent Mgmt

Peter is a passionate advocate and seasoned talent manager in Hollywood and beyond. His career started at SAG, where he fought for artists’ rights, leading the historic 2000 commercials strike that secured residuals for actors. Now based in California, he manages talent internationally, guiding artists to be CEOs of their careers with honesty, transparency, and integrity.

With a background in public policy and political science, Peter offers strategic advice on industry issues like AI and image rights. He emphasizes well-being, personal growth, and staying true to values—supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion every step of the way.

2024 with Marcus Della Rosa

His global experiences, including trips to Europe, inspire him to scout international talent and foster cross-cultural collaborations. Despite industry challenges, Peter remains optimistic about Hollywood’s future—dedicated to helping artists thrive both professionally and personally.

Ethical conduct is paramount in Peter’s work. He maintains that true talent management involves putting clients' interests first, practicing transparency, and doing the right thing—even when no one is watching. This commitment to integrity underpins every interaction, from regular communication to holding himself accountable for his actions.

1. What inspired your transition from labor relations to managing Hollywood-based talent?

I am actually returning to my roots of representing talent because I started my post-law school career as an executive at the Screen Actors Guild, where my responsibilities included educating and organizing members around performers' rights. In fact, I helped lead the 2000 commercials strike, the longest in Hollywood history, which preserved residuals for actors! So, I have long advocated for the interests of artists. The difference is that I used to help negotiate and enforce industry-wide agreements. Now, as a talent manager, I can focus on the specific development of inspiring individuals, which is quite rewarding. Just to clarify: I am Hollywood-based, but I represent talent here in California as well as in other regions such as Germany and Canada.

2. How does your background in public policy influence your approach to talent management?

I have worked in politics and have taught public policy and political science at the college level. This provides an informed and educated lens through which I can analyze representational matters and better advise my clients. For example, regulation of artificial intelligence is clearly a public policy issue that also has a major impact on the entertainment industry and the right of actors to control their image and likeness. My academic and professional background also means that I bring critical thought and analysis to my work for the talent I represent.

3. What core values guide your work with talent in the entertainment industry?

My core values are as follows:

- Empower my talent to be the CEOs of their own careers

- Serve as a zealous advocate, advisor, and representative who does not substitute my judgment for that of my clients

- Support my talent holistically, not just focusing on their entertainment work but also helping them to become well-rounded and self-actualized individuals who have something substantive to contribute to their profession and society

- Model ethical, honest, diligent, and professional behavior, and expect the same from my talent

- Do good in order to do well

4. How do you define ethical talent management?

Ethical talent management requires that the representative (manager or agent) consistently prioritizes the interests of their client above their own. It also demands transparency and clear communication between the representative and the talent. The true litmus test for ethical conduct is doing the right thing even when no one, including your clients, is watching. I hold myself to these high standards.

5. In what ways do you support your clients’ holistic well-being alongside their career development?

First and foremost, I invest time in observing and getting to know each of my clients as comprehensively as possible. This allows me to truly understand each individual's artistic vision, career goals, special skills and talents, personal and intellectual interests, and passions. That specific assessment then informs the level and types of support, guidance, and resources I provide for each person's career development. Additionally, a holistic approach means balancing my talents' career productivity with their physical and emotional well-being. I make sure my clients live fulfilling lives that are not solely dependent on their entertainment success, encouraging them to derive contentment from multiple pursuits.

6. How do you balance the competitive nature of Hollywood with maintaining integrity and merit?

I encourage my talent to be highly competitive in their pursuits—not by tearing others down, but by building themselves up. My clients and I never cheat or undermine others; we conduct ourselves with class and kindness.

7. What are common challenges talent face today, and how do you help them navigate these ethically?

Today's talent face numerous challenges. For example, the streaming business model is less generous to actors compared to the previous network, syndication, and cable systems. They also face the challenge of being viewed as more interchangeable than in the past. These realities generally make for less stable careers, even for talented performers. I help my clients navigate these challenges by being realistic about expectations and advising them on how to invest significant portions of their current earnings for future well-being.

8. How do you foster a culture of transparency and trust with your clients?

I communicate regularly and clearly. I do not hide information, play games, or manipulate. I make myself meaningfully available whenever my clients have questions or need support. I am direct and honest while practicing empathy. I hold myself accountable and apologize when I make mistakes. I follow through on my commitments. I ensure that my actions align with my words.

Talent Manager Peter with Marcus Della Rosa and Marcus’ Talent Agent Pierre Patrick at the Beverly Newsstand supporting issue 17!

9. What role does mental health and personal growth play in your talent management philosophy?

Mental health must be continuously maintained in an industry that can be arbitrary, emotionally taxing, and prone to sowing doubt and insecurity. I often check in with my talent before we discuss business matters to gauge their mental state. I believe personal growth allows us to be more effective over time, and I encourage all my talent to engage in ongoing self-improvement.

10. How do you ensure your clients’ careers align with their personal values and goals?

I make a consistent effort to understand their values and goals from the outset. Sometimes, I serve as their conscience when I sense they may be straying from their principles. For example, I once asked a client who behaved inconsistently with their core values whether they truly wanted to embody that persona. I questioned whether that was their aspiration, how they were raised, and what they wanted to project to the world. The people who care about you most often ask the toughest questions to reconnect you with your principles.

11. Can you share an example of a time you helped a client stand up for their integrity?

This overlaps with the previous question, so I refer you to that answer.

12. What advice would you give to aspiring talent who want to succeed ethically in Hollywood?

Know yourself first. Before portraying different characters or giving of yourself to entertain others, refine your self-knowledge. This is your home base—your reference point if you ever start to lose your way ethically. Also, have a few trusted advisors whose ethics are above reproach, so you have reliable sounding boards when facing ethical dilemmas.

13. How do you advocate for fair opportunities and equitable treatment within the industry?

Fairness and equity are challenging goals in Hollywood, where creative discretion complicates assessment and enforcement. During my time at SAG, I advised the Equal Employment Opportunity Committee and helped create the Non-Traditional Casting Project. I also organized a presentation by my former UCLA law professor Kimberlé Crenshaw on diversity in Hollywood. Constant awareness of implicit bias is key. I also advocate for equal opportunity through my support of projects and events that exemplify best practices in the industry.

14. What are some misconceptions about talent management that you aim to dispel?

One major misconception is that talent "managers" truly know how to manage. Many lack actual management, business, or leadership experience. I have run organizations, departments, and multiple businesses. I have negotiated billion-dollar contracts and understand how to apply real management principles to help my talent achieve their career and business goals.

15. How has your experience negotiating complex labor agreements informed your approach to client negotiations?

I understand the principles of negotiation and how to reach agreements that balance the interests of both parties, especially when stakes are high. I handle pressure well, think quickly, and recognize the importance of leverage and timing. I have learned to see things from multiple perspectives and to problem-solve rather than fight. But if confrontation is necessary, I am resilient.

16. How do you handle conflicts between industry demands and your clients’ personal principles?

I respect my clients' principles but also distinguish between preferences, interests, and core principles. Flexibility with preferences is often possible if the trade-offs are reasonable. Viewing conflicts through the lens of underlying interests can often reveal solutions that meet collective needs. Principles are fundamental to identity, so I aim to resolve conflicts in a way that preserves core values whenever possible.

17. How important is diversity, equity, and inclusion in your approach to managing talent?

In the arts, I interpret DEI broadly to include sensitivity, support, and empathy for diverse backgrounds, cultures, and artistic visions. Since entertainment is a global industry, I strive to avoid being limited by specific national, racial, gender, religious, or cultural perspectives. I am open to all viewpoints when working with my clients and industry colleagues.

18. What do you believe is the key to building a sustainable and fulfilling career in Hollywood?

First, you must be undeniably excellent at your craft. A lasting career is built on mastery. Second, be strategic, including taking calculated risks. Have a plan but remain flexible and open to different paths. Build a strong support network of people invested in your success and make time for yourself. Most importantly, enjoy the journey—milestones and success can be unpredictable, but finding fulfillment in the process makes it worthwhile.

19. How do you measure success, both for your clients and for yourself as a manager?

Success for my clients is achieving a sustainable, fulfilling career over the long term. My success as a manager is measured by: (1) my meaningful contribution to my clients' career achievements, and (2) their growth as individuals during our collaboration.

20. Can you tell us about your talent and what makes your work unique in the entertainment industry?

I curate talent who are well-trained, dependable, inspiring, and marketable. What makes my work unique is that I prioritize the person over the career and focus on the journey rather than just the destination. This approach ensures that, regardless of what happens in the industry, my clients emerge as better individuals who have experienced a meaningful journey.

21. What was the purpose of your trip to Europe with Marcus Della Rosa, and what did you hope to achieve?

I am a certified instructor in Jeet Kune Do, Bruce Lee's martial art, and Marcus has been training with me to enhance his on-camera skills. I teach JKD seminars worldwide, and when I planned a trip to Europe for a seminar at the Bono Academy in Milan, I invited Marcus to join me, knowing he would benefit from the experience and sharing an appreciation of history, culture, and architecture. Our itinerary included Prague, Munich, Bolzano, Milan, and Lake Como. We enjoyed walking tours, exploring castles and historical sites, traveling by train, experiencing nightlife, and sampling local cuisine and beverages. My goal was for Marcus to gain a broader perspective of different people and places, deepen his understanding of the world, and bring this insight into his acting. The trip also strengthened our friendship outside the business context. Additionally, Marcus participated in my seminar and assisted with the instructorship exam of Tuan Tran, a long-time student of mine. I believe Marcus found the trip to be enjoyable, meaningful, and inspiring.

22. How did your experience in Europe influence your perspective on talent management and international opportunities?

The experience reinvigorated me, exposing me to Europe's rich artistry. From Prague's Bohemian vibe to Milan's artistic influences, my travels deepened my appreciation for the interplay between entertainment and culture. It motivated me to seek international opportunities for the talent I represent and even led me to scout European talent during the trip.

23. What were some of the highlights or memorable moments from your trip to Europe with Marcus Della Rosa?

Among the most memorable was hiking an urban trail near Bolzano, which offered peaceful panoramic views of the landscape. We also immersed ourselves in a three-and-a-half-hour walking tour of Munich's WWII and Third Reich sites. Seeing Lake Como through Marcus' eyes, especially at the iconic Villa del Balbianello, made it even more special. We also visited centers of acting and entertainment such as La Scala in Milan, the National Theatre in Prague, and the Bavarian State Opera in Munich.

25. How do international experiences like your trip to Europe shape your approach to supporting talent in a global industry?

International experiences enhance my ability to connect meaningfully with entertainment professionals worldwide, which improves my capacity to position my talent for success globally. They also enrich my advice regarding scripts and characters with international origins.

26. How is the Hollywood scene doing in your eyes?

Hollywood is in a continuous state of evolution. Despite challenges like vertical integration, rising production costs, fires, and a shift toward streaming, it remains a hub of creative vitality and ambition. Hollywood continues to wield immense cultural and artistic influence as the entertainment capital of the world, and I believe it will persist in inspiring audiences globally.

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