by Wordsworth » Mon Feb 13, 2012 7:37 pm
Autograph letter tips.
1) Be brief - no four-page rambling letters. Let them know what you have enjoyed about their work or, even better, ask them about something that is not related to their acting but about a hobby of theirs you read about. If they are best known for playing a signature character (such as in a movie franchise), ask them about a different role. But keep it to one page, two at most.
2) Be legible - if they can't read your letter, they probably won't respond. Type it or have someone else write it if your handwriting is poor.
3) Be polite - cannot emphasize this enough. Acknowledge their busy schedule, say please and thank you. Do not make sarcastic remarks, do not pan their latest film or television project, do not criticize their co-stars/other actors (for all you know, they could be best friends), do not remind them of their recent arrest and do not interrogate them about their politics/religion.
4. Be relevant - goes hand-in-hand with tip #1. If you write about yourself, make it a story about how you were inspired by them or a part they played. They don't need to know the story of your life.
5. Be honest - do not pretend to be someone you are not. Celebrities can spot the "sick child", the "terminally-ill/disabled fan" and the "teacher who wants 20 index cards signed for her whole class" a mile away. And they often compare notes with other celebs to see if you are sending the request to a bunch of stars at one time.
I have something like the following (note: this is an example only)
Dear Mr. Clooney,
I wanted to let you know how much I've enjoyed your work over the years. I remember seeing you on television many years ago on shows, such as "Roseanne" and the sitcom "E/R" that preceeded your later role on the drama "ER". You always struck me as a talented person and I'm glad that your career has been a successful one.
I don't wish to take more of your time, but I was hoping you might be able to sign the enclosed photograph. I've enclosed a self-addressed, stamped envelope for your convenience. I do understand if this is not possible since you are doubtlessly very busy, but I do appreciate any consideration you can give my request.
Thank you,
name
A variation on that letter has worked many times for me. It's short, it's polite (I didn't call him George), it indicates an interest in his career and demonstrates that I've followed him for many years. It gets to my request, acknowledges his schedule and thanks him.
Autograph letter tips.
1) Be brief - no four-page rambling letters. Let them know what you have enjoyed about their work or, even better, ask them about something that is not related to their acting but about a hobby of theirs you read about. If they are best known for playing a signature character (such as in a movie franchise), ask them about a different role. But keep it to one page, two at most.
2) Be legible - if they can't read your letter, they probably won't respond. Type it or have someone else write it if your handwriting is poor.
3) Be polite - cannot emphasize this enough. Acknowledge their busy schedule, say please and thank you. Do not make sarcastic remarks, do not pan their latest film or television project, do not criticize their co-stars/other actors (for all you know, they could be best friends), do not remind them of their recent arrest and do not interrogate them about their politics/religion.
4. Be relevant - goes hand-in-hand with tip #1. If you write about yourself, make it a story about how you were inspired by them or a part they played. They don't need to know the story of your life.
5. Be honest - do not pretend to be someone you are not. Celebrities can spot the "sick child", the "terminally-ill/disabled fan" and the "teacher who wants 20 index cards signed for her whole class" a mile away. And they often compare notes with other celebs to see if you are sending the request to a bunch of stars at one time.
I have something like the following (note: this is an example only)
Dear Mr. Clooney,
I wanted to let you know how much I've enjoyed your work over the years. I remember seeing you on television many years ago on shows, such as "Roseanne" and the sitcom "E/R" that preceeded your later role on the drama "ER". You always struck me as a talented person and I'm glad that your career has been a successful one.
I don't wish to take more of your time, but I was hoping you might be able to sign the enclosed photograph. I've enclosed a self-addressed, stamped envelope for your convenience. I do understand if this is not possible since you are doubtlessly very busy, but I do appreciate any consideration you can give my request.
Thank you,
name
A variation on that letter has worked many times for me. It's short, it's polite (I didn't call him George), it indicates an interest in his career and demonstrates that I've followed him for many years. It gets to my request, acknowledges his schedule and thanks him.