-
Nicole Doshi v. Motley Models: Performer Nicole Doshi sued Motley Models’ former owner, Dave Rock, over contract disputes, including unauthorized booking fees. The case, decided by the California Labor Commission, set a precedent that such fees are unlawful.
-
Jane Does 1-5 v. Derek Hay: Five actresses—Charlotte Cross, Sofi Ryan, Andi Rye, Hadley Viscara, and Shay Evans—filed a labor complaint against Derek Hay, owner of the now-defunct LA Direct Models. The court ordered Hay to pay $66,730.93 in disgorgement for illegally acquired booking fees, reinforcing that these charges breach fiduciary duty.
The California courts ruled that unauthorized booking fees violate the TAA, which requires agencies to act in the best interests of their clients—performers. The Doshi v. Motley Models case is now a final, citable authority, establishing that booking fees charged to producers rightfully belong to performers. As attorney Allan Gelbard stated, “Booking fees charged by agencies are illegal and a breach of fiduciary duty as a matter of law.”
-
Protecting Performers’ Earnings: By deeming unauthorized booking fees illegal, the courts ensure performers receive the full compensation they’re entitled to, without agencies skimming extra profits.
-
Setting a Precedent: The Doshi case’s final status makes it a legal benchmark, likely influencing future disputes and encouraging stricter compliance with the TAA.
-
Broader Impact: While these cases originated in the adult entertainment industry, the ruling applies to all talent agencies in California, from modeling to mainstream acting.
This decision aligns with California’s broader push for transparency in pricing. For instance, the state’s “Honest Pricing Law” (SB 478), effective July 1, 2024, prohibits businesses from advertising prices that exclude mandatory fees, ensuring consumers—and in this case, performers—aren’t misled. The court’s ruling reinforces this ethos, holding agencies accountable for fair and transparent financial practices.
-
Pending Attorney’s Fees: In the Doshi case, a hearing on attorney’s fees is scheduled for July 2025, which could further clarify financial responsibilities for agencies.
-
Enforcement: Agencies may attempt to circumvent the ruling through loopholes or restructured fee models, necessitating vigilance from performers and their advocates.
-
Industry-Wide Change: Performers may feel empowered to challenge unfair practices, potentially leading to more lawsuits or negotiations for better contracts.
Leave a Comment