A Scots agent and the acting talent on her books are set to be the subject of a new BBC Scotland show.
Former model Sonia Scott Mackay hails from the Scottish Highlands but set up her talent agency in Glasgow after noticing a rising trend in film and TV productions coming to the city.
She now has over 5000 people on her books mainly comprising ‘real people’ from octogenarian stuntmen to naked body doubles, looking for a shot in the spotlight.
Having experienced the cut throat lows of being a ‘talent’ herself, Sonia heralds a softer approach to agent life and sees the potential in literally everyone.
(Image: Simon Murphy/BBC Scotland)
Sonia, who has graced Come Dine with Me and was also in the opening scenes of Trainspotting 2, picked four hopeful film and TV extras to star in the new TALENT documentary with her.
It will be aired on December 7 on BBC Scotland at 10pm and Sonia will be having a launch party in Glasgow for close family and friends.
The show tells of their journey in Scotland’s burgeoning entertainment industry as they try to secure a piece of fame.
Flanked by French bulldog Bruno and dressed to impress, Sonia will be joined by Davey, Brianne, Evans and Emma.
Sonia said: “‘Every outing is a scouting opportunity… I’m always on the hunt”
Mum of three and paramedic Emma whose whole family are signed to Sonia’s agency, added: “It’s not about being seen on the telly, it’s about the experience.”
Stepz tribute performer and actor Davey who hails from ‘Costa del Motherwell’ is a self confessed ‘Jack of all trades, master of none’ who says: “I believe what’s meant for you is meant for you.”
Performing is an escape from reality for him as he recovers from a tough year after losing both his beloved grandmothers and bandmate during the pandemic.
Brianne, a double amputee from Paisley who had to drop out of drama college due to health problems also stars in the new show.
She has experienced first hand discrimination and finds it very frustrating, but isn’t deterred – she’s young, feisty and determined.
She said: “I’m not something, I’m someone.”
Brianne dreams of appearing in her favourite show Casualty – can Sonia make it happen?
And lastly Evans, one of Sonia’s hardest-working extras, trie to catch a break in one of the big Hollywood movies shot in Glasgow.
Originally from South Africa, Evans works four jobs to support himself, his mum and his younger siblings.
He said: “If my time comes and I catch a big break, I’m here for it.”
