Over the years, Casting Networks has published interviews, articles, videos, livestreams and more from 200+ casting directors who have shared their stories, casting insights and audition tips with our members to help talent shine throughout the casting process. If we’ve learned nothing else from a couple hundred interviews, it’s that casting directors sincerely want you to knock your audition out of the park. These articles all have bits and pieces of their thoughts on how you can do that.
Think of it this way: The list below represents a collection of insights and advice directly from the casting directors you may find yourself working with, from your initial self tape all the way through booking a role. Wouldn’t it be useful to know as much as possible about them and what they like to see?
If you found yourself nodding in agreement, then bookmark this page – this list is for you. We can’t guarantee that the casting director or team you need to impress will be on this list, but if they are? Think of their words as your personal gold mine and start digging in.
This page was last updated on 8/19/25.
Casting directors in alphabetical order:
Jump to: A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | R | S | T | U | V | W | Z
Adrabi, Maya
“What I love about being in casting is that it allowed me to take my experiences and training as an actor and let it evolve to a place that was more in line with the other needs of my life. And now it’s about collaborating with the actor and celebrating the actor.”
Aibel, Douglas
“One of the challenges that comes with casting a story … is the responsibility of working on a fictionalized version of a tragedy that affected many human beings. You strongly feel the need to get it right. “
Alekna, Sarah
“An actor’s investment in their work and mutual respect for ours goes a long way to instilling confidence and plants an invisible seed.”
Alessi, Sande
“A lot of people have this as a dream or a goal, and they never pursue it. So, it’s really fun to grab somebody.”
Alverson, Rick
“I’m fascinated by the energy that can be created by subverting audience’s expectations. I’m also very interested in the constructive nature of discomfort in cinema.”
Angstreich, Jodi
“Try not to overthink. It’s self-sabotage, especially with self tapes, because you have too much ability to change things on a self tape.”
Anthony Thomas, Jill
“Make a strong choice with the scene. If it’s wrong, we’ll adjust you.”
Apps, Gregory
“The script is not the priority, the character is the priority. Do improvised versions of the scene before you start learning the lines. What you’re doing is, you’re starting to let the character evolve.”
- The Audition Technique With Gregory Apps and Robyn Gibbes
- Livestream: Discovering Tomorrow’s Stars Today with Casting Director Greg Apps
- Casting Legend Gregory Apps Talks Getting Started in Casting, Wisdom for Actors Coming to His Audition Room
Armstrong, Karen
“We want to empower you to be the best you can be.”
Aufiero, Danielle
“I originally thought that I wanted to be an actor, and then my high school drama teacher did an on-camera week in our class. We filmed all of our scenes, and then they were played back so that everyone could see their own. That experience made me realize that I’m better at judging what is on camera than being on camera, myself.”
- Casting Directors Talk Their Nominated Projects on the 2024 Artios Awards Red Carpet
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Danielle Aufiero and Amber Horn
Avetyan, Ani
“Make bold choices. Of course, make sure they fit within the story and the life of the character. But don’t go with the same clichéd choices that every other actor is going to make.”
Baca, Patrick
“Agents and managers will tell us about their child actors and who they think is ready, and then we try them. It’s fun because you find little diamonds in the rough who have an ability that belies their years.”
Bacharach, Jeannie
“Each audition is a brick that you’re laying towards the ultimate job and, potentially, a career. You want to leave a great impression and feel like you’ve done your best work.”
- Jeannie Bacharach Talks Casting Apple TV+’s “Presumed Innocent”
- Jeanie Bacharach on Her ‘Dying for Sex,’ ‘Black Mirror’ Double Dose of Emmy Noms
Baig, Shaheen
“That’s one of my favorite things about doing this job, which is the process of finding people and creating opportunities. That’s why I’m in this industry.”
- Shaheen Baig Reveals Casting Insights into Netflix’s ‘Adolescence’
- How to Break the Mold & Get Cast with Emmy-Nominee Shaheen Baig (‘Adolescence’) | ‘How We Role’
Baldasare, Lyndsey
“I like to say, ‘keep doing consistent work, and keep being a team player, it all factors in.’”
Barden, Kerry
“[It’s a good idea to] have a reader that knows how to respond to the scene because then there is more of a connection for the actor.”
Barnes, Elizabeth
“You can never really predict how casting will unfold, and I think it’s important as a casting director to have some humility and be present for the journey. You need to be open to meeting new people and seeing actors in a new light, allowing them to do the work and surprise you.”
Basten, Heather
“Never leave the scene the way that you entered it. Keeps it interesting.”
Beach, Lisa
“Come in with no ego and be fearless.”
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Lisa Beach (Part 1)
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Lisa Beach (Part 2)
Beegle, Brian
“It is much easier to tell the truth on camera than it is to lie. Once you believe yourself, then you’re not acting anymore, are you?”
Benner, Brett
“One of the things we love about casting is getting to know you beyond your acting. We have an opportunity to be in the room with you and to say potentially, ‘Let’s try that again,’ or ‘Let’s see who you are beyond what you’re (reading for)’.”
- How Brett Benner and Debby Romano Built the World of Apple TV+’s ‘Shrinking’
- Casting Directors Talk Their Nominated Projects on the 2024 Artios Awards Red Carpet
Bennett, Mark
“Communicate your enthusiasm through your degree of preparedness.”
Bergman, Rori
“Don’t spend so much time trying to fit yourself into the box that you think we want you in. You lose sight of everything that makes you you, and that’s ultimately what elevates something from a character on the page into something three-dimensional.”
Berini, Daniel
“The casting process is always a bit of a puzzle, and we never really know where things may end up, so why not cast a net and be open to changing people’s minds? Every established name was once an unknown. “
Berland, Terry
“One of the ways an actor can keep acting between bookings is to keep honing their skills and continue with acting classes on an ongoing basis. Working out in acting class should feel fulfilling, a way to keep feeding the creative beast in you.”
- The Challenges and Complexities of Pursuing an Acting Career
- How to Analyze Voiceover Copy
- Commercial and Theatrical Auditions: Similarities and Differences and How to Master Both
- First Impressions in the Casting Room Can Make or Break Your Audition
- How to Impress a Casting Director
- How to Not Compromise the Commercial Acting Industry
- Improv Is Driving Actors Out of Their Minds
- Insider Insight into Running a Virtual Casting Session
- Local Hire Explained: Why It’s Important and How to Avoid Complications
- The Importance of Body Language in a Commercial Audition
- The Proper Protocol of the What, When and Why’s of Getting Your Agent Involved in Self Submissions
- Who Are the Commercial Booking Decision-Makers?
- Why Are Commercial Auditions so Last Minute?
- Why Do Casting Directors Consider So Many Options?
Berra, Elizabeth
“If actors have questions about the material or the audition specifics that we’ve sent to them ahead of time, they should ask! We are here as resources to set them up for success because we do our best work when they do their best work.”
Bialy, Sharon
“You see a lot of great actors perform, and as the puzzle starts to come together, you somehow instinctively feel which person is the right piece for each role.”
Bishop, Nancy
“You really shouldn’t worry too much if you’re the one who didn’t get it because there could be a lot of random things [that factored in the decision].”
Bloch, Chelsea Ellis
“The ones that stand out are those who make distinct choices and interpret the character in their unique way. Even if they don’t get the role, they stay on our minds for future projects.”
Boling, Sunday
“There are many reasons for direction, and direction is not always based on how the audition sounded. You are a unique creative being who has made choices based on your own worldview. Stay with your own choices.”
Bright, Courtney
“I think it’s important to be prepared…I would do my homework, and I would know what I’m coming in for, and I would know the project.”
Brink, Kathryn
“Breathe, relax, enjoy the process. Because if you can’t do that, then we can’t see you. Just be able to open up and show us who you are, and potentially where we could take you.”
Brockmann, Emily
“Be as well-prepared as you can be, leaving any kind of travel troubles at the door and be as present as you can in the audition. At the same time, be able to make changes.”
- Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann Discuss Apple TV+’s ‘Disclaimer,’ Working With Alfonso Cuarón
- Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann Discuss Apple TV+’s ‘Disclaimer,’ Working With Alfonso Cuarón
- How A Librarian’s Favor Led to “All the Light We Cannot See” Casting Director Emily Brockmann’s Career
Bullock, Krisha
“When casting young actors, we think it’s important to remember they are just that: young. They are impressionable kids who are in the midst of growth, learning, and transformation.”
Buntyn, Emily
“On our side of things, we want you to do the best job possible, because that’s going to help us as well. Asking questions is always welcome, and be prepared…”
Burch, Samy
“I think what my years in casting have cemented is that I love actors.”
Butler, Gianna
“… be nice to everyone because you don’t know what project you’re going to work on with them in the future, or where those people are going to end up. It relates to actors, too. That’s how you get the best performance.”
Bywaters, Aisha
“You might not get the job every time, but if we know the sort of actor you are, the sort of person you are, just be as chilled and relaxed as you can be and just be nice and have a laugh and be creative. Then, hopefully, when the right thing comes in, we can work together.”
- “Queenie” Casting Director Aisha Bywaters on Discovering Jedaiah Bannerman, Casting “We Are Lady Parts”
Caldwell, Adam
“A lot of times I’ll work on the granular level and then we’ll start to build these ideas [of who will get cast for the role].”
Canete, Luis
“The job is essentially a mix of my different skills, which range from administrative to creative. I also think that casting directors, in general, tend to lean more into either the acting or directing aspects of the role.”
Carlson, Kristy
“Be as prepared as you can. Try to understand the material and the character as much as possible.”
Chamian, Denise
“Have an idea about what you want to do with the character, and if you don’t know, you should ask and get guidance before you read.”
Chesley, Marsha
“Prepare in all the ways possible. Not just memorizing, that’s not enough. It is doing everything that you would do for a scene study class in school.”
Chenoweth, Ellen
“Watching those master teachers work with actors got me interested in the craft of it all.”
Chute Rosenbaum, Cara
“I found in [casting] all the creative energy that I was looking to focus and realized that it’s where I wanted to be. I was just immediately hooked and never looked back.”
Clay Boland, Mary
“Even if you don’t book that one, it doesn’t mean that you weren’t seen or put on a list for something else you might be right for.”
Cochrane, Kharmel
“Oh, God, the cheesy normal thing of, just be yourself, but actually be yourself. Whoever you are, just be yourself.”
- Casting Director Kharmel Cochrane Reveals Why ‘Nosferatu’ is “the Thing I’m Most Proud of”
- Casting Insights: Kharmel Cochrane on the Casting of ‘Warfare’
Coleman, Kim
“Take your craft seriously and be prepared, because a first impression is very, very, very important.”
- How Kim Coleman and Her Peers Pulled Together to Create Casting’s Long Overdue Oscar
- Kim Coleman on First Impressions in the Audition Room
- Casting Insights: ‘Beyond the Gates’ With Kim Coleman
Comerford, Jon
“It’s the grandest job in the world to be able to work with actors to get the take that they’re happy with and that we’re happy with — that’s the one we use.”
Cooper, Jennifer
“Your actual take and your actual essence are what I’m most interested in, as opposed to everybody trying to come in and fit it into the box that they think I’m looking for.”
Cornejo, Candido
“It’s an opportunity to be able to showcase not just what we do professionally but within the world.”
Crawford, Kahleen
“… even when you think you’re not right for the part. If you’re an orange, and even if you think that we need a banana, come in and be the best orange.”
- How “All of Us Strangers” Casting Director Kahleen Crawford Turned People Watching into a Thriving Career
- Kahleen Crawford Talks Casting “The Buccaneers” During COVID, How Casting is Like ‘a Long-term Relationship With Performers and Their Agents’
- Livestream: Casting in the U.K. With Casting Director Kahleen Crawford
Cuba, Carmen
“We do the traditional searches through agencies but I also have various people in the city in the theater community and I will send the description of what I’m looking for.”
Cusumano, Mia
“At the start of every audition, I go in believing and hoping you are going to be incredible and I am going to get to offer you the role.”
Dang, Sara
“This job actually made me the person I am today. Now I stand up for myself when things aren’t right.”
Daniel, Collin
“Unless it’s asked for, improv should be limited, especially in the first audition. Maybe add a line to end the scene, but don’t rewrite it.”
Brett Greenstein & Collin Daniel Reveal the Casting Process of ‘Nobody Wants This’
Daniels-Butler, Leah
“What I would encourage an actor to do if they’re auditioning for something that’s period is to be mindful of that period.”
- Casting Director Leah Daniels-Butler Talks Casting Apple TV+’s “Manhunt” and Her Approach to Historical Dramas
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Leah Daniels-Butler
Daniels, Nicole
“Just take a moment to look at the sides, familiarize yourself with the material, and know the players that are involved.”
Daniels, Jessica
“There wasn’t a lot of time or money for casting, though, and like most of the independents I cast, the movie came to me with nobody attached.”
“We usually have more talent than we need. We’ll send our choices to producers, and love each of those choices.”
Davison, Anne
“Come in with what you feel is your best take on this material, and then be open to potentially trying it another way, even if you know the adjustment or the note seems to go against what’s on the page.”
Day, Arlie
“Hold your sides. You don’t know what’s going to happen that could throw you off. You don’t know if your reader is going to skip a page. You want to be able to pick back up and have it be fluid and not have it completely derail your audition.”
De Miguel, Sig
“Forget everything else. It’s all about your truth and coming into a room and approaching that state of being and playing your truth.”
Dealy, Rebecca
“I think that’s a really important distinction for actors to come in with the preparation, the belief in themselves and the self-respect to say, “This is my offering, this is what I’ll do with the part, as opposed to just being a hair behind it.”
- Rebecca Dealy on the Expectations of Casting Amazon’s Video Game Adaptation “Fallout”
- Rebecca Dealy Shares Insights on the Casting of ‘Lurker’
Dean, Liz
“You are enough. You know your worth, and you know that the reason you are getting this audition — the reason you are being given this opportunity — is because you deserve it. You are ready for it.”
Delia, Rich
“If you’re not on time, then you’re immediately starting on your back foot. Do all of your work beforehand, know all of your lines and then forget it. Be present in the room.”
- Casting Director Rich Delia Talks “Ninja Turtles,” Finding Chemistry in Your Cast
- Rich Delia Shares Casting Insights on ‘The Long Walk’
DeLizia, Melissa
“Whether I’m casting something in the comedy world or the coming-of-age world or something else entirely, it’s about hopefully making a difference.”
- Get To Know the Casting Director: Melissa DeLizia
- Melissa DeLizia Says to ‘Bring a Little Part That’s You’ to Auditions
Deming, Susan
“I approach casting with the purpose of finding the actual, layered human who can best tell the story.”
Doro, Nickole
“Don’t be rude to the people outside the door if it’s in-person, because everybody reports to everybody, and we’re friendly with [the people who work the] gate.”
- Nickole Doro on How Being Respectful Impacts Your Auditions
- Casting Directors Reflect on the Evolution of LGBTQ Roles
Douglas, Terri
“Doing looping work is the same as on-camera work in that it needs to be believable and grounded, not manufactured.”
Doyle, Katie
“I think one of the most important things you can do is be so prepared that for the day before you, you’re coming in, if you’re given the time, stop looking at it.”
Dowling, Shakyra
“Always stay positive from the off. Don’t give any negative because you’re also feeding your mindset… Give yourself the best chance.”
Eisenstein, Neely
“You walk into any room, in any job, in any place, and just know that they cannot eat you.”
Einsohn, Josh
“The metaphor that I keep circling back to is that it’s like we’re putting together a musical group, and in any good script, there’s a music to it that we need to serve.”
- The Casting of ‘Monsters,’ with Tiffany Little Canfield and Josh Einsohn
- Casting Director Josh Einsohn’s Art of Shaping Beloved Characters
Ember, Jamie
“Make sure you have enough preparation so that you can fall back on something because then you’re not thinking about it. That’s what I look for in the room, people who are really listening and really acting.”
Estrin, Allison
“I think [an important thing is] coming into the room and knowing that you have the fan in there, and knowing that I am there to work with you and help you to get this job.”
Farris, Susie
“It’s really starting out with a blank canvas and casting really interesting types. I love casting quirky and idiosyncratic characters.”
Fessenden, Larry
“Simply listening to the individual artist and trying to understand the way their process will be most effective and realized. And of course, because of that process, we have these very sweet, unexpected performances.”
Fifer, Bess
“I don’t expect production value from you. I expect to be able to see you and hear you, and anything else doesn’t matter. “
Fiorilli, Chrissy
“I try to really create a warm and friendly environment, and I think that most people who audition, who have auditioned for me, would agree.”
Fogel, Alexa L.
“If you are lucky enough to work on good material and with good people — which I often am — that helps the process.”
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Alexa L. Fogel
- Alexa L. Fogel and Kathryn Zamora-Benson Discuss the Casting of ‘Smoke’
Foley Marra, Megan
“I was standing in the lobby of the production company, and it hit me that the job allowed me to do all the things I love. That is to say, casting is essentially acting, teaching, and directing all wrapped up into one role.”
Fomalont, Karlee
“If you give yourself the emotional play space, and then the physical play space, it really lifts things off a page.”
Forbicioni, Michela
“You don’t get up one morning declaring you’re a pianist if you have never played piano before, and that applies to acting, too. With this clear in mind, actors coming in to audition need to have fun!”
Fowler, Alison
“I get to watch actors perform a script and do their own version of a character, and sometimes I get to read with them, too. There’s also the fun of picking people to audition, and so all the components of the job added up to something I wanted to do for life.”
- Get To Know the Casting Directors: Alison Fowler and Stephanie Pringle
- Chicken & Chips Casting Duo Talk Casting Myths, Launching the Audition Academy Collective
Fox, Maribeth
“An actor has to be cognizant of pleasing themselves as an artist and bringing their unique perspective to the material, the best they can. And then tonally, if they’re off, we’re there to help them.”
Fox-Thigpen, Jessica
On casting true crime productions: “The only difference is there’s more often a need to cast people that resemble the real people I see.”
- Artios-Nominated Casting Director Jessica Fox-Thigpen Discusses Her Work on ‘The Great Lillian Hall’
Frank Koczara, Alexis
“Casting is a collaboration between the casting director and the actor, so ask questions to help you prepare because that’s what we’re here for, to guide you through that, and then take a risk here and there because it could pay off.”
Fronk, Dean
“When an actor auditions, there are a lot of aspects about it that they can’t control. But one thing that is in their power is to make sure they’re the most prepared actor we see that day.”
Fuhrman, Isabelle
“I realized then that casting is not a science. Sometimes people have no idea what they’re looking for. They’re just looking for someone to be “it” – whatever they think that ‘it’ is.”
Gazazyan, Gohar
“I wanted to be an actor when I was young, and then I thought I might want to be a director. But, I also crave some stability and control, which those professions don’t necessarily offer. Casting felt like the perfect combination of creativity and consistency, though, so I was immediately taken with the idea of it.”
Gehrt, Chris
“I always say do what’s written, and then you can always add something.”
Geller, Kate
“Remember, we’re all human. We all have bad days, we all have great days and we’re rooting for you. We’re just a person like you are. If we give you a direction, breathe deep, see how it lands and go for it. If we don’t give you direction, say ‘thank you.’”
Gil, Alejandro
“My biggest piece of advice would be to be able to come and play. Treat it as a rehearsal session. Be open to trying stuff and to make mistakes.’”
Glenn, Charisse
“I don’t think it really matters what industry, business, or lifestyle you’re in — finding your center is always going to be important.”
Gold, Nina
“I feel for all the actors who have to walk into the room and make it work at the click of a finger. It’s difficult. I hope they remember that, as casting directors, we’re on their side and want them to get the part.”
- Nina Gold and Martin Ware Talk Casting ‘Conclave,’ What Made Isabella Rossellini Right for Her Role as Sister Agnes
- Casting Director Nina Gold on “Slow Horses”
Goorjian, Michael A.
“I’ve learned how much goes into the casting choices beyond auditioning.”
Greenberg, Jeff
“Master the material, so you don’t need to hold it. And really use yourself. There’s no one like you. “
Greene, Leslie M.
“I want you to connect with the character. When you walk in the room when you open your mouth and start talking, I want to think, ‘This is that person.'”
Greenstein, Brett
“… don’t overdo it. Make a smart choice and stick with it.'”
Griffiths, Jesse
“My philosophy has been to focus on serving underrepresented communities, both from the acting perspective as well as creators.”
Guglielmo, David
“Think about where this person’s coming from, and embody that character. Then there’s something really magical that happens. You get lost in the moment. That’s what being really present is in an audition, and that feels authentic.”
Hamilton, Des
“I think it’s great when casting directors are recognized for the hard work they’ve done.”
Han, Cassandra
“Please knock it out of the park. We’re totally on your side. Everybody in the room is. Just understand that it’s really important to bring yourself, to feel free, to take chances, to make strong choices.”
Hardin, Kimberly
“My approach to casting, in general, is to see as many actors as I can in order to give as many people as possible an opportunity. Plus, that allows me to provide an abundance of options to the filmmakers.”
Hardwick, Jeff
“I also like to say, try to be unique. That doesn’t mean outside of the character, but you’ve gotta be strong. The competition is fierce.”
Harrell, Rita
“It can take a long time for somebody to catch on, and if they keep getting called in by the casting director, that means that they’re doing something right.”
- Livestream: Spotlight on Atlanta: Ask a Casting Director with Casting Director Rita Harrell
- Master Your Self Tape: 14 Top Tips From Casting Directors
Harris, Jason
“The job of ADR voice casting, itself, is a strange gig. We’re putting together a group of voice actors — who are collectively called a loop group — that improvise the background dialogue of a scene while bearing in mind any locations, time periods, vocations, and style of the principal action of the show.”
Hart, Erica A.
“I’ve been casting projects since October of my first year of college up until now, and I just fell in love with it. You get to be a connector between so many different roles in the industry.”
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Erica A. Hart
- ‘How We Role’ Episode 5: Ultimate Self Tape Audition Guide for Actors with Casting Director Erica A. Hart
Hartigan, Shayne
“We go in with a set of standards, all of our extras will be treated with respect and dignity, and that way people want to keep coming back.”
Harvie, Natalie Jane
“We usually start with traditional talent and then bring in some street cast to round out the overall look and feel of the spot. But it is really script-dependent.”
Haynes, Todd
“I was astonished by the range of talents and the flexibility of the actors’ abilities to shift languages and dialects from French to English. I’ve never seen anything like that before….it’s an example of how rich local talent can be.”
Heery, Diane
“Stay centered. Lose the nerves. You’re there for a reason. Have confidence in yourself, because obviously, we saw something in you, and that’s why you’re getting called in.”
Henderson, Sherrie
“I’m literally here for you and I think the only thing that you would have to worry about is the fact that I will be a reader. […] I’m not going to let you leave until you feel good about what you’ve done.”
Hibbs, Bella
“Stop trying to guess what casting wants. Stop trying to guess what the director wants, what the client wants, and what the ad agency wants and instead show us what you have to offer.”
- Bella Hibbs Wants Actors to Stop Guessing and Show Casting ‘What You Have to Offer’
- 10 Questions With Faith Hibbs-Clark and Bella Hibbs of Good Faith Casting
Hibbs-Clark, Faith
“I started teaching the method because I saw a need for it, and now I do seminars and workshops all around the world.”
- 10 Questions With Faith Hibbs-Clark and Bella Hibbs of Good Faith Casting
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Faith Hibbs-Clark
Hicks, Richard
“I loved being in the room when the casting directors were discussing the differences between everyone and figuring out which direction they wanted to go. Casting allows me to use more of myself more of the time than acting did.”
- Get To Know the Casting Director: Richard Hicks
- Richard Hicks’ Mystical Audition Advice on Staying in the Moment
Higginbotham, Toni
“I’ve got a team that works for me, and unless it’s a role where it’s a no-brainer, I always pick who goes into the casting. Every client is treated with that respect.”
Hilliard-Forde, Nicole
“If someone has an audition for me and they’re preparing for their audition over days and then they have this strange and eccentric question, I allow them to get in touch with my office and ask me that strange question.”
Hiller, Randi
“Sometimes, something draws your eye to certain people. They create emotion right on the spot. They have something, a quality that inhabits the character.”
Holland, Sophie
“…as casting directors, we get to tell human stories that other people want to hear, that help them relate to things going on.”
Holloway, Beverly
“Casting unites the two predominant skillsets that I have, and the production experience has been invaluable to my career. It’s an asset to really understand how all the pieces fit together and how the actors fit into the bigger picture, as well.”
Horn, Amber
“I knew very early on in my life that I had a passion for casting…Then when I was in college, I ended up doing casting work on our senior film, even though I had been given the role of producer. And I just fell in love with it.”
- Casting Directors Talk Their Nominated Projects on the 2024 Artios Awards Red Carpet
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Danielle Aufiero and Amber Horn
Horton, Wittney
“Know what you’re saying and know the material. Also, if you’re going and you mess up one word, keep going.”
Hubbard, Dan
“I like people to be calm, with a sense of belonging and a sense of purpose, because I have called you in, and I’ve deemed you talented and up to the job.”
Hughes, Maureen
“I don’t want them to second guess what they think I’m looking for. I want them to bring their authentic selves. I’m looking for something about their energy. I want to see how they apply themselves to a piece of script, to bring that piece of script alive.
Imoru, Nike
“I love the not obvious choices. That’s where I see an actor crafting and really doing their thing.”
Iwagami, Ko
“I was just so excited for the actor, and it felt good to be a part of making the project more authentic and taking it to the next level.”
Jäderlund, Henry
“Be flexible. Take feedback. Make those adjustments.”
Jenkins, Victor
“I often tell this to younger actors coming in: casting is such a long game. It can happen for you at 10 or 90 years of age, but it’s always a long game for us.”
Jensen, Joey Paul
“You can be incredibly focused on the purpose of being there and the purpose of the character, unwavering in your decision about the beginning, middle and end of that experience. And when you have that kind of laser beam focus, it generates a certain energy.”
- Audition Advice with Casting Director Joey Paul Jensen
- Four Casting Directors Share Audition Advice and Audition Mistakes Actors Should Avoid
Jay, Jina
“I think it’s very important to feel like you’ve done your best by a job, no matter how small, how big, how whatever it turns out.”
Johnson, Jeff
“Take control of the story, of what you’re going to tell us, and be that character.”
Jones, Allison
“Mostly, prepare and don’t chew gum. It’s shocking how many people are not prepared for their auditions.”
Jury, Dylan
“Every audition is fun because the material’s funny and it’s just a blast.”
Kanani, Venus
“A couple of times, casting took me up on it and had me run the camera, which allowed me to observe what casting sessions were like. I was instantly intrigued and realized it was much more in line with my interests and what I wanted to do.”
Kass, Robyn
“The knack of casting is, how do you have a conversation with someone, get the most authentic side of them, have them telling you their dreams and hopes — good and bad — and be comfortable enough to say these things to you?”
Kaufman, Avy
“One thing that casting directors do, we present choices. Sometimes I ask, sometimes they push. It goes both ways.”
Kay, Sara
“You could ask around in Toronto, you will hear we are probably the most welcoming, nicest, most normal, least crazy casting directors because we really are just about casting the part. We want you to get the part.”
Kelly, Jessica
“But thinking about actors and their potential and the way they could all fit together to form something interesting — that just appealed to me right away.”
Kennedy, Jason
“Actors shouldn’t expect their reps to do all the work; they should be in control of their own careers. That involves taking classes, updating their materials, creating their own work, evolving as a person and a performer, being accessible, and always being prepared.”
Kenyon, Andrea
“The actor with the ability to observe humanity and to recreate it is truly a gift to us in terms of what we do.”
Kiely, Louise
“Prepare. I know we’ve got timeline issues and all that, and we’ve got families, and I completely respect that, but I will not meet unless I have read the script twice.”
Kim, Grace C.
“Ask the questions that you want to ask because you have however long the casting director is going to give you. [If it’s] 15, 20 minutes, whatever it may be, that time is fully yours.”
Kim, Julia
“For me, it’s always about starting with a script that grabs me. When I read a script, I love thinking about names as I read it.”
Kim, Su
““I’m most proud of being the bridge to bigger opportunities for local Korean actors.””
Klapper, Stephanie
“Know that you’re welcome in the room, and we’re very excited that you’re coming in. Take that time to know that we want you to be there and that you’re invited because we believe in you.”
- Stephanie Klapper’s Note to Actors: ‘We Believe in You’
- How to Handle Rejection & Stay Motivated with Casting Director Stephanie Klapper | ‘How We Role’
Koonce, Claire
“It’s not a test to see if you guessed the way this character goes. It’s more like an opportunity to show me how you see this.”
- Casting Directors Talk Their Nominated Projects on the 2024 Artios Awards Red Carpet
- How “Beef” Casting Directors Claire Koonce and Charlene Lee Became a Team
Lambert, Ruth
“… everyone thought it was impossible. There was this sort of feeling of, ‘I don’t know if we’re ever going to get this.’ This being so specific, it was just nice to get it done and have everyone be happy.”
Lambert, Taylor
“There’s nothing more delightful in my day than getting on a call telling an agent or an actor, ‘Hey, you’re booked for this job.’”
Lamontagne, Linda
“When it comes to casting, in general, I try to always keep an open mind to everyone and every circumstance.”
Lazer, Ken
Lee, Charlene
“An audition isn’t getting about getting something right. I think it’s just to not be afraid to bring yourself to the room and to every audition that you do because you’re uniquely you and you’re bringing something unique.”
Leonard, Kate
“Casting directors watch everything, every single thing that comes in. We also watch a lot of Australian films, TV shows, web series and short films, and we make a note of everyone. We are always watching you —in the non-creepiest of ways.”
- Kate Leonard of Telford Leonard Casting Talks Key Moments Leading to Her Career, What Keeps Her Excited About Casting
- Alison Telford and Kate Leonard: ‘Tune In to Your Instinct’
Levitt, Heidi
“I always saw myself as a storyteller, and I see myself wanting to tell personal stories that have a larger sort of framework around them.”
Levy, Brian
“I always tell actors that if they get the audition, they’re halfway there, because some deranged casting director, much like myself, has chosen you to audition for whatever role it is we’re auditioning you for.”
Lewis, Jenny
“Put your own stamp on the character. It’s that intangible thing you can’t describe that makes a person right for a part.”
Lewitt, Michelle
“Look at yourself and what you bring to the table for this character, and then mold the character based on what you authentically can bring.”
Liem, Caroline
“Actors may wonder what’s happening when they don’t hear anything afterwards, but it’s a matter of us having conversations about them and advocating for them. Casting goes to great lengths to make talent seen and heard.”
Lilly, Destiny
“I always say, especially if you’re coming in person for an audition, just to make sure that you’re prepared in the sense of what preparation is for you. And that we’re not looking for memorization.”
- CSA President Destiny Lilly Discusses Her Epic Casting Run
- Casting Directors Talk Their Nominated Projects on the 2024 Artios Awards Red Carpet
Links, AJ
“The way you cast a project can change the context or even the meaning — it’s essentially dramaturgy.”
- Casting Directors Talk Their Nominated Projects on the 2024 Artios Awards Red Carpet
- Get to Know the Casting Director: AJ Links
Little Canfield, Tiffany
“That feeling of becoming a better artist every day has continued throughout my career because each casting job is an immersion into something new.”
- The Casting of ‘Monsters,’ with Tiffany Little Canfield and Josh Einsohn
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Tiffany Little Canfield
- Casting Directors Talk Their Nominated Projects on the 2024 Artios Awards Red Carpet
Loftus, Jason
“Auditioning is a skill. Some people get it right away, and some immensely talented people just really struggle with the process. It’s our job to recognize that and help the actor, maybe prep the director that the actor needs a little bit more than what we’re giving them. ”
Loland-Ringer, Karlie
“… be yourself, which I know sounds so cliché, but the way I see it is, you’re the product as the actor, so I’m gonna want to know that you’ve got a great personality, that you’re easy to get along with, that you’re fun.”
London, Lisa
“… it takes a huge amount of persistence. There’s a lot of rejection and things that happen. But if — like I said — you love it and it’s what you want to do, then you keep persisting along that road.”
Ludwitzke, Liz
Lutz, Shasta
“Do not apologize. Do not go in the room unless you are prepared and know that occasionally, you just draw a blank… Being as prepared as you can, that’s what we’re looking for.”
Lyon, Natalie
“We’re looking for people who are generous and nice to be around that will also bring something special to the project.”
Maisto, Matthew
“I want actors to come into an audition room and own that room for however many minutes they’re there. Take the space and use it as a place to put on a show and impress us a little bit.”
Manyette, Rita
“I love when a person really gets the character. Even the smallest nuances can be shown if you find where you would be if you were like that person.”
Mayfield, Laray
“Be uber-prepared. Come in, do your best and walk away from it.”
McBride, Nancy
“Understand presentation. Presentation is vital. You’ve got one shot. Half the time, if they turn on that video and you don’t look good, they’re only going to give you three seconds, then go to the next. It’s all about presentation.”
- Nancy McBride On Why Audio, Video Quality is Key for Self Tapes
- 10 Questions with Nancy McBride of Reel Kasting Productions
- Master Your Self Tape: 14 Top Tips From Casting Directors
McCarthy, Barbara
“When you go in that room, we want to help you do your best. I would like to just see them come in with that confidence of assuming that we’re all in their corner.”
McCracken, Becca
“When you go in that room, we want to help you do your best. I would like to just see them come in with that confidence of assuming that we’re all in their corner.”
McLeod, Thea
“One of those things I love discovering when I’m watching different auditions, or having you in the room, is you bringing yourself to the role. Sometimes people don’t realize how unique they are as individual performers. There’s nothing better than that.”
- CGA President Thea McLeod: ‘Mental Health Is So Important in This Industry’
- Meet Thea McLeod, President of the Casting Guild of Australia (CGA)
McGee, Robert
“That’s one of the wonderful things about casting, is when you can help give somebody an opportunity like that. It just makes you feel so good that they were able to land these iconic parts, and they’re so happy.”
McSweeney, Tom
“Make the camera work for you. Don’t be afraid of it. It’s your best friend.”
Meltzer, Howard
Ménager, Juliette
“My job is to lead the actor (in such a way) where they can open themselves up to be their best. I usually let them do one pass because sometimes they have a creative idea (for the character) and I want to let them have that.”
Miclat, Geoff
“I love seeing how an actor will take a character because I’ll read it one way, and then I’ll watch 15 people do it similar but different, or some people might even [be] completely different.”
Midell, David
“You still want to be in very close contact with the actors because the actors are putting themselves into some emotionally and physically vulnerable positions, and they want to know that they’re in good hands and that they’re going to be protected and supported.”
Midthunder, Angelique
“I just want actors to know how much we are in their corner, and working for them to give them every opportunity to put their best foot forward.”
- “The Curse” Casting Director Angelique Midthunder Discusses Her Casting Origins and Connecting With Actors
- Casting Directors Talk Their Nominated Projects on the 2024 Artios Awards Red Carpet
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Angelique Midthunder
- Casting Insights: Angelique Midthunder on Casting ‘Opus’
Moody, Kirkland
“Improv is really important, as well as just having the willingness to play and not get stuck in your one way of doing something.”
Morman, Meg
“I felt like that was exciting, to bridge both of those worlds in one profession, and it spoke to my skill set.”
Murtagh-Monks, Annie
“As well as having the functional satisfaction of working in an industry that’s creative, inclusive, that’s making attempts to incorporate diversity in a very real way, the joy that I get in being able to watch a feature film or tv series that I cast gives me a real thrill.”
- Annie Murtagh-Monks’ Advice for Handling Industry Uncertainty
- Livestream: Casting in Western Australia With Casting Director Annie Murtagh-Monks
Nayor, Nancy
“Sometimes people are so concerned with making the wrong choice that they go vanilla instead of taking bold chances, which I think are the auditions that are the most memorable.”
Nesbitt, Justin
“Go with your gut instincts on the performance, on who you think that character is and don’t be afraid to do something different that’s maybe not always on the page, because that stands out.”
Newman, Dave
“There’s so much in an audition that an actor needs to let go of, and if they’re brave enough to do that, then we usually get a really great result – even if the actor thinks it was a six-car pile-up on a highway after a tsunami during an earthquake and a blizzard.”
O’Brien, Wendy
“Everyone really cared about the whole process, which was lovely, getting to see all the heart behind it.”
O’Neil, Melissa
“This is the thing, when you come in, we’re asking you to play. We’re asking you to take a leap. These are the circumstances of the role. How would you do it?”
- Livestream: Actor Empowerment With Casting Director Mel O’Neil
- Casting Director Melissa O’Neil Provides a Deep Dive into the World of Commercial Casting
Paige, Mike
“Most importantly, and I know this is easier said than done, this is the chance to play and have fun.”
Papsidera, John
“I love actors. It’s part of my job to create space where actors can share a bit of their soul because that’s what the job is to me. I go to the nth degree, or I try within my means to create a creatively stimulating space.”
- John Papsidera Gives Insights on the Casting of ‘Superman’
- John Papsidera on Establishing “Yellowstone’s” Dutton Family and Casting Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer”
- Legendary Casting Director John Papsidera Talks “Lessons in Chemistry” and More
Paris, Chase
“Don’t simply wait for someone to notice you, go out of your way to be noticed and get on their radar.”
Park, Theo
“I’d say do your homework as much as you can. If you are only sent a paragraph and you don’t know the show, find at least who the showrunners are, what they might have done before and what the tone of those pieces might have been.”
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Theo Park
- Theo Park Pulls Back the Curtain on Casting “Ted Lasso”
- Theo Park Talks the Casting Process for “Ted Lasso,” Amazon’s “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power”
Patton, Cami
“Come in an open vessel. Come in having already made choices. Have an idea of what you plan to do, but also listen and be open because that might get thrown out the window before you even start.”
- Casting Director Cami Patton on Bringing the Post-Apocalyptic World of “Silo” to Life
- Casting Director Cami Patton On Working With Mike White and Jason Katims, Auditions and A.I.
Payne, Tim
“Be present. Be in the moment. Be alive. Be listening, as well as performing, as well as knowing your lines, but also be ready for what opportunity there is for something real to happen.”
Pizzuti, Armando
“Have fun with it. That’s the key. Go with your heart and not with your mind.”
Pierre, George
“In terms of on-screen representation, I think that all races need to be represented accurately and not just in stereotyped roles.”
Presser, Jennifer
“Take classes or workshops of some sort. Anything where you can be in the room with other people who are giving you notes, because that’s the biggest thing I’ve noticed.“
Pretsfelder, Demchick Danielle
“I’m hoping what I’m doing is going to change the trajectory of our industry, and also have more people of all identities in casting and our business in general.“
- How Danielle Pretsfelder Demchick, CSA, Elevates Underrepresented Communities
- ‘How We Role’ Episode 12: Voiceover Career Advice from Casting Director Danielle Pretsfelder Demchick
Price, Sarah
“One of the big things is their commitment to the craft and commitment to the role. Also, because I work with a lot of non-professional actors, sometimes it can be difficult to get hold of them, so being responsive is important.”
Pringle, Stephanie
“For me, the moment that I figured out I never wanted to do anything else was when I was leaving my first casting job in Melbourne to move to Sydney. I just realized that it wasn’t an option for me to not work in casting because I really like it and am good at it.”
- Get to Know the Casting Directors: Alison Fowler and Stephanie Pringle
- Chicken & Chips Casting Duo Talk Casting Myths, Launching the Audition Academy Collective
Radley, Justin
“No matter how similar everyone appeared on the surface, their own authenticity is what distinguished them. That’s why the most important thing to remember when trying to stand out from the others is to embrace your authenticity.”
Rapaport, David
“I don’t know what a perfect audition is, because I don’t know exactly what I’m looking for. I want to encourage them to make choices. I encourage people to find their unique selves and put it out there on the tape.”
- Meet the Man Turning Queer and Trans People Into Superheroes
- David Rapaport and Lyndsey Baldasare Talk Casting for the CW and Share Audition Tips
Rasmussen, Peter
“In order to make the best decision, you [must] find the most important thing in the role and then listen to your gut reaction.”
Records, Laurie
“Keep your actor social media account pristine and with a focus that is going to serve you as an actor.”
- Casting Director Laurie Records Talks About Social Media
- Commercial Actors Should Never Break Simple Callback Rules
- Commercial Actors Should Never Disparage the “Silly Asks” of Their Auditions
- Commercial Actors Should Never Fail to Get the Self Tape Done
- Commercial Actors Should Never Forget Their Self Tape Job List
- Commercial Actors Should Never Neglect the Easy Stuff For Self Tape Requests
- Commercial Actors Should Never Be Without Confidence in the Audition Room
- Commercial Audition Basics From Casting Director Laurie Records
- Essential Tips for Getting Brilliant Commercial Headshots
- Parting the Clouds of Callbacks and Casting
- To Go or Not to Go?
- Trust (Not Talent) Can Make or Break a Commercial Career
- When to Say “Yes” and When to Say “No” in Commercial Acting
Reher, Kevin
“My joke is that I am part of the front-of-the-house crew who works with the filmmakers to find the right actors, and then we kick it over to business affairs to handle the deals on the back end of things.”
Reiss, Rachel
“It depends on the project, but I’d say for most of the animation and podcasts and VO stuff I’ve done, I’m also watching their reels or their clips because I do want an idea of what their natural base level and voice is. And then if it’s a project where there are extreme characters, then I’ll start delving into their animation demos.”
René, Amey
“Do a good job every time, make strong choices and get it in on time. Just do the work. Don’t get caught up in all the other stuff. Also, if you’re in a film that goes to a film festival, go.”
Ricchiazzi, Jennifer
“I have the benefit of working in independent film. I send the script to everybody.”
Romano, Debby
“… when you’re choosing your two takes, choose one that is just the words on the page. Then choose one where you know improv can be added, whether it be a button at the end, or a funny reaction… just so we can see the instinct of the actor.”
- How Brett Benner and Debby Romano Built the World of Apple TV+’s ‘Shrinking’
- Casting Directors Talk Their Nominated Projects on the 2024 Artios Awards Red Carpet
Roncali, Marisol
“This is why the audition process is so important: Zazie Beetz had auditioned for Star Wars and we loved her from that and that’s how we knew to bring her in for Deadpool.”
Rosen, Rose
“I love the bold choice. That’s why I love to see two and even three takes, and if they’re separate clips, you’ve made my life easy.”
- ‘How We Role’ Episode 13: 5 Business Principles Every Actor Should Know with Casting Director Rose Rosen
- ‘Casting Confidential’s Rose Rosen on What Led to Starting Her Podcast, How the Casting Industry’s Changed Since the Pandemic
- Livestream: Self Tape Tips With Rose Rosen, CSA
Rosenthal, Laura
“I’ve worked with Laura Rosenthal since Velvet Goldmine in 1998 and I’ve never deviated.” — Todd Haynes
Ross, Marisa
“You have to make yourself into a commodity that people are like ‘I want to know that person, I want to hire that person, I want to rep that person.’”
Rousse, Helene
“I think the audition starts when you walk into the office, even before coming in the audition room, because the people that are there, an assistant, whoever is receiving you, are as important, and you never know who they are.”
Rubin, David
“Everything from my past that reflected my love for the theater and for actors seamlessly intersected with my interest in having a professional life in the entertainment field. Casting was it for me.”
Rubin, Tara
Rudin, Jen
“It’s important to have a website first and also to realize, when it comes to social media, it’s a very small world.”
Rudnicke, Jennifer
“The times when I feel most proud aren’t necessarily attached to a specific project. Rather, it’s those instances when you feel like you’ve hit the jackpot. I’m talking about the moments when you read a script and instantly think of the exact actor for the role, the person you feel is meant to play it.”
Ryan, Karen
“I have such a lot of respect for actors, knowing how much they have to go through for every role.”
Sanford, Michael
“I’m grateful that I’m still doing this. I still really like what I do — I’m very lucky.”
Salmon, Gregory
“If you find that casting is continuously calling you in, then you’re doing something right. Eventually, it will click.”
Sapikura, Jordana
Schnee, Paul
“With directors, you get a vibe for the kinds of actors they like. It’s often just as much about personality and what that person is like as a human as it is about their acting style.”
Schubert, Julie
“What we’re looking for is someone with a unique point of view that makes sense.”
- Julie Schubert talks Casting Hulu’s “Under the Bridge,” the Importance of Her Work on the Holocaust Documentary “Resistance: They Fought Back”
- ‘How We Role’ Bonus Episode: Emmy-Winning Casting Director Julie Schubert — ‘Keep It Simple’
Schuster, Arlene
“I’m going to start with the lobby because I think it’s really important when you have an audition to make sure you’re prepared.”
Schweber, Emily
“Ask questions. Even when you get a request for a self tape audition, you can still reach out and ask questions.”
Sheaks, Christine
“Actors need to know who they are and be connected to it before they get in the room. What makes an actor different is what’s going to get him or her the job; it’s a light that shines brightly.”
- Audition Advice with Casting Director Christine Sheaks
- Four Casting Directors Share Audition Advice and Audition Mistakes Actors Should Avoid
Sherman, Jessica
“As far as the actual audition, it’s mostly just about listening. You should listen to the reader when you’re in the scene and then listen to the direction given about it.”
- Audition Advice with Casting Director Jessica Sherman
- Four Casting Directors Share Audition Advice and Audition Mistakes Actors Should Avoid
- Jessica Sherman on the Casting of ‘Predator: Killer of Killers’
Shopmaker, Susan
“I think humans are complicated, so we needed actors who could give us those layers and all the while looking like they were from this world.”
Simkin, Margery
“You just have to come in and take a swing and then you’re either “it” or you’re not. Not getting a part doesn’t mean you’re not talented. It just means you’re not right for that role.”
Simon, Claire
“I want every actor who auditions to give an amazing performance. As casting directors, we’re on your side, and I even used to have a sign up in my office that said just that.”
Sinclair, Caroline
“I think we’re all so connected, and I think it’s really important for actors to remember that. We love actors.”
Skotchdopole, Chris
“… the idea is to do whatever you can do to take the performers’ instincts and sensibilities of who they are and try to attach them to the character. They’ll just start breathing together as one.”
Smith Shevchenko, Christine
“Bring yourself into the character. Because while we enjoy watching actors, I don’t want to see you acting. I want the character to come through you.”
Smith, Suzanne
“We try and give as much information as possible that we can. Sometimes you can’t because the project is a secret squirrel.”
- “Franklin” Casting Director Juliette Ménager Talks Working with Suzanne Smith, the Challenges of Finding English-Speaking French Actors
- Suzanne Smith Talks Casting Michael Douglas-Starring Mini Series “Franklin” and Audition Advice for Period Pieces
Snow, Jamie
“Sometimes actors think we are looking for “over the top” or more of a sketch type of comedy, but we prefer a real, grounded performance with increased volume, energy and pace.”
Sollitto, Jackie
Soper, Christi
“I started off as her assistant, and the department oversaw casting for live-action TV and live-action film at that time, as well as animation. That meant we got to do everything, which was cool, and it was a great way to learn all about casting.”
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Christi Soper
- Casting Insights: Christi Soper Shares Casting Insights for ‘The Bad Guys 2’
Sparer Roberts, Jamie
“A big part of it is the connection between the casting director and the actor or the director and the actor.”
Stamey, Jason B.
“On the opening night of that show, I saw all the amazing actors that I’d helped cast go up and perform. I felt like I was entering into this new phase of my life and just wept with joy at finding a new creative drive for it.”
Syson, Lucinda
“Always read the material before. Sometimes, it is not the literal we’re looking for, so an actor should carefully go through the script.”
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Lucinda Syson
- Lucinda Syson Discusses the Casting Process Behind Apple TV+’s “Foundation”
Tannenbaum, Jesse
“The main thing that has stayed constant is the search for dynamic people who are beautiful storytellers, but there has been a shift in the type of people we choose. What I mean by that is, we don’t look for a “type” anymore.”
Telsey, Bernie
“The art form of casting is to collaborate with directors and producers and writers … And I always wanted to take that one step further — let’s collaborate amongst ourselves.”
- How Casting Theater Broke Bernard Telsey into TV and Film
- Bernie Telsey and Adam Caldwell Pull Back the Curtain on S2 of ‘The Gilded Age’
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Bernie Telsey
Telford, Alison
“Tune in to your instinct. In the room, it’s just being present and getting out of your head a little bit.”
Tenner, Rachel
“I was thrilled about what I was doing, whether it was paperwork or being in the room with the actors or breaking down scripts. Casting just clicked for me right away.”
Terry, Christine
Therrien, Jayson
“If you need something from me, let me know. If you mess up, don’t worry about it. I want the best performance out of you, and if I need to do something to help you, I will. “
Thomas, Sherry
“The foundation that I try to come from is when the soul of the actor meets the soul of the character. The rest can be modulated from there.”
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Sherry Thomas
- Sherry Thomas on How Casting Directors Also Have to Audition for the Job, Casting Apple TV+’s “Sugar”
Thomas, Victoria
“…looking for a young deaf Black man to play a character who has a disability […] was satisfying because we were able to cast an actor to represent the community that he portrays.”
- Casting Director Victoria Thomas Talks “The Morning Show” and Its New Character
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Victoria Thomas
- Victoria Thomas Pulls Back the Curtain on Casting “The Last of Us”
Tom, Millie
“For me, the performance always comes first. So the first part of the audition is the speaking portion of the scene, and then we’ll get into the physicality.”
Tomasello, Erin
“…when it comes to casting unscripted series, you get to meet real people and hear about real challenges they’ve overcome.”
- Casting Directors Talk Their Nominated Projects on the 2024 Artios Awards Red Carpet
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Erin Tomasello
Trevellick, Jill
“When you come in, it’s because I believe you can do this. You have an ally in the room.”
Tucker, Meredith
“… I was really introduced to casting TV when I started working for Georgianne Walken and Sheila Jaffe. I came onto their team when they were working on season three of The Sopranos.”
Tylor O’Connor, Steven
“… Once we saw their chemistry together, it was obvious they were the right people for the roles.”
Tweed, Finnian
“… come in with fresh ideas and don’t be afraid to express your opinion and your views on the character or the script. Be open to direction. Always, always, always, always know who you’re meeting.”
- Casting Insights: Finnian Tweed on Casting ‘A Working Man’
- Finnian Tweed Talks Striking it Out on His Own, Working With Sophie Holland and John Papsidera
“I don’t have a lot of rules. Being prepared is the one thing that to me separates the people that usually rise to the top, and those that don’t.”
- Robert J. Ulrich, Jackie Davies on ‘The Boys,’ Why Being Prepared is So Important
- Casting Directors Talk Their Nominated Projects on the 2024 Artios Awards Red Carpet
Vacnin, Lynne
“I would say, keep your passion alive but find a way to supplement yourself so you’re happy doing what you want to do while you’re building your career. It’s a journey and a career takes time.”
Vallely, Tannis
“I also relish the opportunity to support the voices of storytellers whose stories differ from my own, along with the chance to hear somebody else’s perspective on life.”
Velasquez, Rhys
“Advocating for yourself is crucial. Don’t hesitate to communicate your needs to do your best work.”
Venditti, Jennifer
“Don’t try to impress and don’t try to figure out what it is I want from you. Use your instincts, give it 100%, and then let it go. Let it go.”
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Jennifer Venditti
- How Jennifer Venditti Broke into the Casting World from the Fashion Industry
Vincent, Stephen
“Your job is not to get that job. It is to to stay true to the character, and give an entertaining performance.”
Vise, Dea
“My favorite thing to say to actors is that without them, I don’t have a job. They’re a big part of the equation, and I really want them to know that because they’ve given me my whole life.”
Waldron, David
“I think it’s a really good skill, especially if you want to further your career in acting, use background work as an opportunity to learn the craft to network and see see how the different departments operate as a whole.”
Ware, Martin
“Just be able to come in with an idea of something and then be ready to listen and change things up.”
Waters, Mathew
“You have to think about what the job is. Like, think about what the brand is. Look at how they portray themselves and what their values are. And then you have to mold yourself into a human representative of that brand, as opposed to playing a really good character and delivering a really good performance.”
Weissmueller, Lindsey
“One thing I’ve always prioritized telling actors is to take ownership of your approach to the character. Find a sense of comfort in what you’re bringing in, comfort and competence, and lean into that rather than leaning into what you think somebody wants to see.”
Wicksteed, Rose
“I truly believe that the more we come back to ourselves and meet how we are in that moment, whatever it is, and then just use that, that’s real for you in the moment.”
Williams, Kim
“Our job is taking the written word and translating it into human form so that’s where the magic is: finding those beautiful stories and beautiful characters and helping bring them to life. That’s why I love meeting actors and just getting to know them.”
- Audition Advice with Casting Director Kim Williams
- Four Casting Directors Share Audition Advice and Audition Mistakes Actors Should Avoid
- Get to Know the Casting Director: Kim Williams
Wistedt, Kimberly
“It’s lots of hard work, but I wouldn’t change it for the world because I just feel like it’s really put our market on the map.”
Wolfe, George C.
“These are ferocious and brilliant craftspeople with such heart, now playing people who had heart and ferocity and who were so committed. It was about pairing that up and making sure you had the right dynamics.”
Woo, Leslie
“And it kind of clicked at that moment that this job made all the sense in the world for me. It was a matter of realizing that work could actually feel this exciting.”
Wu, Becky
“I’ll pause here to note that I normally let the actor end the call on their end rather than remove them from it, myself, because it works better with how Zoom is set up.”
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“Just be prepared. I never want people to be off-book, but make your choices before. Be kind to everyone in the office, and just be open and available to take direction.”
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Zamora-Benson, Kathryn
“I always feel a sense of pride, not only for the established actors in the larger roles—who are undeniably brilliant—but especially for those in smaller roles.”
Zane, Debra
Zarkesh, Anousha
“I try to facilitate the director’s vision at all costs and work hard to find the ‘right’ performers for each project. I still get a buzz putting a cast together and working collaboratively with the director and producer.”
