Advance-Fee Talent Services

Malibu Talent Management

Malibu Talent Management, described in an online directory as an "international talent agency site that provides information on auditions and bookings," and "a talent management company with 17 years [of] experience," was shut down by the LA City Attorneys.

The BBB file for Malibu Talent said their web address was malibutalent.com and "This company's business is providing photographs, industry training and counseling."

On September 18, 2002, the LA City Attorney's office issued a press release entitled: "City Attorney Delgadillo Brings Curtain Down On Malibu Talent Company" (Contact: Ana Garcia/Frank Mateljan); document ND6143.pdf.

The rest of the BBB report substantiated the claim of the City Attorney's office that the company was shut down:

Mail sent to this company was returned by the post office as "moved; left no forward address," "forward order has expired," or "unable to locate." The Bureau cannot trace addresses of companies or principals. General information is available upon request which may assist you.

We rate this company as having an unsatisfactory business performance record.

Complaints received for this company allege general dissatisfaction with services, photos, and misrepresentations regarding employment opportunities for clients.

The company responded to most complaints by denying refund requests, offering to uphold the terms of the original agreement, or reminding clients they have three day cancellation rights only. Some complaints remain unresolved, meaning the customers were not satisfied. Other complaints remains unanswered.

On July 27, 2001, the Los Angeles City Attorney filed a 17 count misdemeanor lawsuit against Simone McCue, Donald John Cherry, Marlon Robert De Lara Wall, Michael Greg Harrison, Michael Patrick Pasby, and Michael Joseph Papo who were principals and employees of the company (Case #1CR02818).

The suit alleges, in part, the defendants failed to provide written contracts; placed false and misleading advertising; failed to provide the proper disclosures in contracts; and denied cancellation rights to prospective clients.

The principals were also charged with operating an employment counseling service and an advance-fee talent agency without posting the required $10,000 bond for either service. The case is currently pending.

The case is no longer pending. The lawsuit was filed in 2001, and the company was shut down in 2002.

The LA Times reported the lawsuit on July 25, 2001 ("Talent Agencies Accused of Misleading Parents," p. B.5) in a story about a similar company:

Six people affiliated with Burbank company Malibu Talent are charged with conspiracy to defraud. Both companies tout their ability to kick-start the entertainment careers of unknowns on their Web sites.