Seth Rogen Reveals the Hollywood Advice That Shaped His Comedy Career
Seth Rogen has spent decades making audiences laugh, but one of the most memorable pieces of filmmaking advice he received came down to four unexpectedly raunchy words.
While reflecting on his career at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival, the actor, writer, director, and producer revealed that longtime collaborator Judd Apatow once shouted a piece of advice during production of Knocked Up that Rogen still uses today:
“Less semen, more emotion.”
It may sound like another Rogen-style joke, but the Canadian filmmaker says the message behind it became an important creative lesson about balancing comedy with genuine emotion.
Seth Rogen Still Uses Judd Apatow’s ‘Knocked Up’ Advice
Rogen recalled the moment while discussing the 2007 comedy Knocked Up, which Apatow wrote and directed.
The production relied heavily on improvisation, something that became a defining feature of several movies involving Rogen and Apatow.
During one improvisational session, Apatow reportedly called out the four-word instruction from another room.
What started as a funny comment ultimately became something much more useful to Rogen.
Over the years, Rogen says he and his writing partners have returned to the phrase when scenes become focused on generating jokes at the expense of character or emotion.
The broader lesson is simple: comedy works better when audiences care about the people involved.
The Lesson Helped Seth Rogen Balance Comedy and Emotion
Rogen explained that Apatow’s advice taught him about tone — particularly how humor, reality, and emotion can coexist in the same scene.
That balance has become a major part of Rogen’s work.
Movies such as Superbad, Pineapple Express, This Is the End, and Neighbors are known for outrageous comedy, but many of their stories also revolve around recognizable relationships, insecurities, friendships, and fears.
Superbad, for example, may be filled with over-the-top teenage comedy, but at its core, the movie follows two friends struggling with the realization that their lives are about to change.
That combination of humor and emotion is something Rogen has continued exploring throughout his career.
Seth Rogen and Judd Apatow Go Back to ‘Freaks and Geeks’
Rogen’s relationship with Apatow began long before Knocked Up.
One of Rogen’s earliest major acting opportunities came on the cult television series Freaks and Geeks, where he played Ken Miller.
Although the show lasted only one season, it became an important launching point for several actors and filmmakers who would later become major names in Hollywood.
Rogen subsequently worked on Apatow’s television comedy Undeclared, both as a performer and writer.
Those early opportunities helped Rogen develop not only as an actor but also as a screenwriter and filmmaker.
His collaboration with Apatow later continued through projects including The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Knocked Up, and other films connected to the filmmaker’s influential comedy circle.
Seth Rogen Started His Comedy Career as a Teenager
Rogen’s career began even earlier.
Growing up in Vancouver, Canada, he started performing stand-up comedy while still a teenager.
Around the same period, Rogen and longtime creative partner Evan Goldberg began developing an early version of what would eventually become Superbad.
The pair would go on to build one of Hollywood’s most successful modern comedy partnerships.
Together, Rogen and Goldberg have worked on projects including Superbad, Pineapple Express, This Is the End, The Interview, and The Studio.
Rogen has credited knowing what he wanted to do from a young age — and having supportive parents — with helping him pursue entertainment professionally.
Seth Rogen Honored at TIFF 2026
Rogen reflected on those early experiences during an appearance at the Toronto International Film Festival.
The Vancouver-born filmmaker was honored with TIFF’s Norman Jewison Career Achievement Award, which recognizes Canadian filmmakers whose careers have made an international impact.
The recognition comes after Rogen developed from a teenage stand-up comedian into an actor, screenwriter, producer, director, and television creator.
His career has also expanded well beyond broad comedy.
Rogen played Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak in the 2015 drama Steve Jobs and has taken on numerous dramatic and voice-acting roles alongside his better-known comedic performances.
Seth Rogen’s New Projects Include ‘Babies’ and ‘Tangles’
Rogen arrived at TIFF with several projects highlighting the variety of work he is currently pursuing.
He stars alongside Anna Kendrick in Babies, written and directed by his wife, Lauren Miller Rogen.
The movie follows a married couple confronting questions surrounding parenthood and whether they want children.
Rogen and Miller Rogen have also been involved with Tangles, an animated adaptation of Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir dealing with a family’s experience with Alzheimer’s disease.
The projects demonstrate the emotional storytelling Rogen says has become increasingly important to his filmmaking — even when comedy remains part of the equation.
‘The Studio’ Marks Another Chapter in Rogen’s Hollywood Career
Rogen has also found major success on television with Apple TV’s The Studio, which he co-created with Evan Goldberg.
Rogen stars as Matt Remick, a Hollywood studio executive attempting to navigate the competing pressures of art, business, celebrity, and corporate filmmaking.
The entertainment-industry satire gives Rogen another opportunity to blend absurd comedy with the frustrations and insecurities of characters trying to survive in Hollywood.
His work behind the camera has also made Rogen an example of how performers can expand their careers beyond acting.
What Actors and Filmmakers Can Learn From Seth Rogen’s Advice
Rogen’s unusual piece of Hollywood advice contains a lesson that can be useful for actors, writers, and filmmakers.
Making a scene funny is not always enough.
Strong performances often come from understanding what a character actually wants, what they are feeling, and what is at stake beneath the dialogue.
For actors, that means looking beyond punchlines when preparing a comedic audition.
A casting director may be evaluating comic timing, but they may also be looking for authenticity, vulnerability, chemistry, and believable reactions.
For writers, it means remembering that audiences are more likely to become invested in a story when the comedy is connected to recognizable characters and emotions.
And for filmmakers, tone can determine whether an outrageous moment feels meaningful or simply exists for shock value.
Rogen’s four-word lesson may have started as a crude joke on the set of Knocked Up, but nearly two decades later, it remains part of the creative philosophy behind his work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What advice did Judd Apatow give Seth Rogen?
Seth Rogen recalled Judd Apatow shouting, “Less semen, more emotion,” while the cast was improvising during production of Knocked Up. Rogen says the phrase became a useful reminder to balance outrageous comedy with genuine emotional storytelling.
When did Seth Rogen receive the advice?
Rogen said the moment happened while filming Knocked Up, which was released in 2007 and directed by Judd Apatow.
Why does Seth Rogen still use the advice?
Rogen says the phrase reminds him and his collaborators to consider the emotion underneath a comedic scene rather than concentrating exclusively on making each moment funnier.
How did Seth Rogen meet Judd Apatow?
Rogen’s professional relationship with Apatow dates back to Freaks and Geeks. Rogen later worked as an actor and writer on Undeclared before collaborating with Apatow on major Hollywood movies.
What award did Seth Rogen receive at TIFF 2026?
Seth Rogen received the Norman Jewison Career Achievement Award at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival. The honor recognizes Canadian film professionals whose work has made a global impact.
What are Seth Rogen’s latest projects?
Rogen appeared at TIFF with Babies and Tangles. He also stars in and co-created Apple TV’s Hollywood comedy series The Studio.
Did Seth Rogen write ‘Superbad’?
Yes. Seth Rogen and longtime collaborator Evan Goldberg wrote Superbad. They began developing versions of the story when they were teenagers before the movie was eventually released in 2007.
What can actors learn from Seth Rogen’s filmmaking advice?
Actors can use the lesson as a reminder that even comedy requires believable emotion. During auditions and performances, understanding a character’s motivations, relationships, and emotional stakes can make funny material feel more authentic.
Where can actors find film and TV casting calls?
Actors can use Project Casting to discover casting calls, auditions, film and television opportunities, and entertainment industry news. Staying prepared with current headshots, an acting résumé, and performance materials can help talent respond when suitable roles become available.
Sandra Bullock Recalls Disturbing Early Audition Experience—and the Career Lesson Actors Can Take From It
Sandra Bullock is opening up about some of the uncomfortable audition experiences she faced before becoming one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.
The Academy Award-winning actress recently reflected on her early years in New York, when she was working as a waitress while auditioning for nearly every opportunity she could find.
During that period, Bullock says she encountered people in the industry who made inappropriate requests during auditions—including being asked to remove clothing.
Her comments offer a revealing look at the realities some performers have faced while trying to break into Hollywood and highlight an important issue for actors at every career level: knowing when an audition crosses professional boundaries.
Sandra Bullock Says Some Early Auditions Crossed the Line
Bullock discussed her early career during a conversation with longtime friend Jennifer Aniston for Interview magazine.
Before becoming a household name, Bullock was trying to establish herself as a working actress in New York.
Like many emerging performers, she was balancing auditions with a day job and trying to take advantage of whatever opportunities were available.
But not every opportunity felt legitimate or appropriate.
Bullock recalled attending auditions where people made requests that immediately raised concerns for her.
Even while recognizing that certain situations were wrong for her, she continued trying to move forward in an industry where actors often fear that turning down work could mean losing momentum.
That pressure is something many working performers can recognize.
“Every Working Actor Thinks You Will Never Work Again”
Bullock also reflected on the insecurity that can come with acting professionally.
She explained that performers can easily fall into the mindset that every job might be their last opportunity, which can create pressure to accept whatever comes next.
That uncertainty can be especially intense for actors who are still establishing credits, relationships, and financial stability.
Bullock acknowledged that she often tried to make the most of available opportunities while working her way toward better roles.
Her experience demonstrates an important reality of acting careers: ambition and persistence matter, but performers also need to recognize when an opportunity does not align with their boundaries or professional goals.
Sandra Bullock Eventually Became More Selective About Roles
As Bullock’s career grew, she says she became more deliberate about the types of projects she wanted to pursue.
One major turning point came when she decided to move away from repeatedly taking romantic comedy roles.
By then, Bullock had already become famous through movies that established her as a major comedy and romantic lead.
However, she wanted to demonstrate a wider dramatic range.
That decision ultimately helped reshape her career.
‘Crash’ Helped Sandra Bullock Show a Different Side of Her Acting
Bullock pointed to Crash as an important project in changing the direction of her career.
In the 2004 drama, she played Jean Cabot, the wife of a Los Angeles district attorney.
The role gave Bullock an opportunity to step outside the type of characters audiences most strongly associated with her at the time.
The film later won the Academy Award for Best Picture.
For Bullock, the role represented an opportunity to stretch creatively and demonstrate that her career could extend far beyond romantic comedies.
She later continued taking dramatic roles in major projects including The Blind Side and Gravity.
Bullock won the Academy Award for Best Actress for The Blind Side and earned another nomination for Gravity.
Why Audition Boundaries Matter for Actors
Bullock’s story carries an important lesson for performers navigating casting calls and auditions.
A legitimate audition should have clear professional expectations.
Actors should understand what a role requires before being pressured into performing material or actions that make them uncomfortable.
When a project involves nudity, intimacy, simulated sexual content, or other sensitive material, those requirements should be communicated professionally and handled through established production procedures.
Unexpected requests that fall outside the stated audition requirements can be a red flag.
Actors should never assume that inappropriate treatment is simply something they must tolerate in order to build a career.
Casting Red Flags Actors Should Watch For
Professionalism matters at every stage of the casting process.
Actors should pay attention when important information about a project is missing, when someone suddenly changes the audition requirements, or when requests become unrelated to the actual performance being evaluated.
Other warning signs can include unclear production details, pressure to provide unnecessary personal material, unexplained requests for revealing photos or videos, and demands that make an actor feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
Researching a production and understanding who is conducting the audition can help performers make more informed decisions before participating.
Actors should also trust their judgment when something about a casting situation feels inconsistent with normal professional practice.
Sandra Bullock’s Career Shows the Importance of Long-Term Choices
Bullock’s career also illustrates how performers can evolve beyond the roles that initially make them successful.
Early in an acting career, the immediate goal may simply be getting hired.
As experience grows, however, performers can begin thinking more strategically about the stories they want to tell and how each project contributes to their long-term career.
Bullock’s decision to pursue more dramatic material eventually helped lead to some of the most acclaimed performances of her career.
That does not mean actors should automatically reject the type of work that first brings them success.
Instead, it shows the value of periodically asking whether current opportunities are helping move a career in the desired direction.
Sandra Bullock Wants to Return to Comedy
Interestingly, after building an extensive résumé across comedy and drama, Bullock says she now feels drawn back toward comedy.
The actress indicated that she misses the period when making audiences laugh was a larger part of her work and expressed enthusiasm about doing more comedy again.
Her recent work also includes Practical Magic 2, reuniting Bullock with Nicole Kidman as sisters Sally and Gillian.
The sequel continues the story of the characters introduced in the 1998 cult favorite.
For working actors, Bullock’s career is a reminder that career paths do not have to move in only one direction.
Performers can reinvent themselves, return to familiar genres, pursue new challenges, and change their priorities as their careers develop.
What Actors Can Learn From Sandra Bullock’s Story
Sandra Bullock’s path from struggling New York actress to Oscar winner offers several lessons for performers.
Persistence matters, but persistence does not require accepting every situation presented as an opportunity.
Actors can pursue ambitious careers while maintaining professional boundaries.
They can also make deliberate choices about the types of roles they want to pursue, especially as their experience and opportunities grow.
Most importantly, an audition should be an opportunity to demonstrate talent—not a situation where an actor feels pressured to ignore their own boundaries in order to get hired.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Sandra Bullock say about her early auditions?
Sandra Bullock recalled encountering inappropriate people during auditions early in her career, including situations in which she was asked to remove clothing.
Where was Sandra Bullock living when she was starting her acting career?
Bullock described living in New York and working as a waitress while regularly auditioning for acting roles.
What lesson can actors take from Sandra Bullock’s audition story?
Her experience highlights the importance of professional boundaries. Actors should understand audition requirements beforehand and remain cautious when unexpected or inappropriate requests are made.
Should actors be asked to undress during an audition?
Actors should be especially cautious about unexpected requests involving nudity or removing clothing. Sensitive content should be disclosed clearly and handled through professional casting and production procedures rather than introduced without warning.
When did Sandra Bullock become more selective about her career?
Bullock said she became more intentional about her career when she decided to move away from consistently taking romantic comedy roles and pursue different types of performances.
How did ‘Crash’ affect Sandra Bullock’s career?
Bullock viewed Crash as an opportunity to demonstrate a different side of her acting ability. The dramatic role helped broaden the types of performances audiences and filmmakers associated with her.
Did Sandra Bullock win an Oscar?
Yes. Sandra Bullock won the Academy Award for Best Actress for The Blind Side. She later received another Best Actress nomination for Gravity.
Is Sandra Bullock returning to comedy?
Bullock has expressed interest in doing more comedy again after spending part of her career pursuing dramatic material.
What is Sandra Bullock’s latest movie?
The source identifies Practical Magic 2 as Bullock’s most recent film, with Bullock and Nicole Kidman returning as Sally and Gillian.
Where can actors find legitimate casting calls?
Actors can use Project Casting to discover film, television, commercial, modeling, and entertainment opportunities. Before applying, performers should review project details carefully and research productions whenever possible to help identify legitimate professional opportunities.
Sometimes waiting for an audition isn’t the only way to get one.
Actor Anthony Ippolito says he wanted the lead role in I Play Rocky so badly that he created his own audition before he had a script, before he had sides — and reportedly before the movie’s formal casting search had even begun.
It worked.
Ippolito, 27, now stars as a young Sylvester Stallone in Amazon MGM Studios’ I Play Rocky, director Peter Farrelly’s film about Stallone’s famous battle to get the original Rocky made.
The story is particularly fitting: Ippolito landed the role by betting on himself before Hollywood invited him into the room — much like the man he’s portraying.
For actors accustomed to submitting hundreds of applications and waiting for callbacks, his story offers an unusually powerful lesson about preparation, initiative and creating opportunities instead of waiting for them.
Anthony Ippolito First Learned About the Movie From the News
Ippolito wasn’t initially sent an audition.
He saw an article announcing that a movie about the making of Rocky was being developed.
He already knew some of Stallone’s story and immediately felt connected to the project.
So instead of waiting to find out whether casting would eventually consider him, Ippolito started working.
He hung a heavy bag in his grandmother’s basement and began trying to understand the physicality of a young Stallone.
There was one major problem:
He didn’t have the screenplay.
He didn’t even have audition sides.
Ippolito told TheWrap that he worked largely from his imagination, filming material with a friend and his cousin. (TheWrap)
He Created an Audition Nobody Asked For
Most actors are familiar with the traditional process:
A casting notice goes out.
Your agent submits you.
Casting sends sides.
You record the audition.
You wait.
Ippolito reversed almost the entire process.
He created the audition first.
According to TheWrap, he sent his homemade tape to the film’s producers and casting director. They responded by sending him the actual screenplay and asking him to submit a proper audition. (TheWrap)
Then he went even further.
Instead of only completing what had been requested, Ippolito filmed additional scenes and sent those too.
Eventually, he got the part.
Peter Farrelly Says the Tape Ended the Search
The gamble apparently made an immediate impression on director Peter Farrelly.
According to reporting from the Associated Press, Ippolito had filmed scenes in his grandmother’s basement before Farrelly had formally begun searching for the actor who would portray Stallone.
Farrelly’s reaction was decisive:
“I looked at it and the search was over.”
Ippolito had effectively created his own opportunity — and convinced the director he was the person for the role. (Lethbridge Herald)
The Story Mirrors Sylvester Stallone’s Own Career
There may be no more appropriate way to land this particular role.
I Play Rocky tells the story of Stallone before he became a movie star.
The struggling actor wrote the screenplay for Rocky, but when Hollywood became interested in buying it, Stallone refused to simply sell the script.
He insisted that he play Rocky Balboa himself.
Studios had little reason to believe an unknown actor should lead the movie.
Stallone refused to give up.
The gamble eventually resulted in one of cinema’s most famous underdog stories.
Rocky became a massive success and won Best Picture.
Now Ippolito is playing Stallone after displaying a little of that same mentality himself.
He saw a role he believed he could play.
Nobody invited him to audition.
So he created the audition anyway.
Ippolito Spent More Than a Year Preparing to Play Stallone
Getting cast was only the beginning.
Ippolito told People that he spent more than a year and a half preparing physically and emotionally to portray the young Stallone. (People.com)
The challenge went beyond mimicking a recognizable voice.
Stallone has distinctive speech patterns, facial movements, posture and physicality, all of which audiences immediately recognize.
Ippolito also faced the difficulty of portraying a famous actor before that actor became famous.
The goal wasn’t simply to imitate the Sylvester Stallone audiences know today.
It was to portray the ambitious, struggling performer who believed he could become that person.
I Play Rocky Is Already Generating Buzz
The film premiered at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival, where the project received an enthusiastic reception.
The AP reported strong audience response at the premiere, with Ippolito receiving particularly warm applause. (AP News)
The movie is directed by Peter Farrelly and also features AnnaSophia Robb, Matt Dillon, Stephan James, Toby Kebbell, P.J. Byrne, Jay Duplass, Kiki Seto and Tracy Letts.
Amazon MGM Studios plans to release the film in select theaters on November 6, followed by a wider rollout on November 20. (People.com)
What Actors Can Learn From Anthony Ippolito
There is an obvious temptation to interpret this story as:
“Send unsolicited audition tapes everywhere.”
That isn’t the lesson.
Productions have submission rules for a reason, and actors should respect casting instructions.
The more valuable lesson is about initiative.
Ippolito didn’t wait until someone told him to begin preparing.
By the time an actual opportunity emerged, he had already been studying the character and building a performance.
That’s something every actor can control.
When you hear that a project is coming together, you can research it.
When you discover a character that fits you, you can start developing material.
When you’re waiting for auditions, you can keep improving your self-tape setup, reel and craft.
You may not control when casting calls.
You do control whether you’re ready when they do.
Stop Waiting for Permission to Practice
Actors spend enormous amounts of their careers waiting.
Waiting for submissions.
Waiting for auditions.
Waiting for callbacks.
Waiting for agents.
Waiting for producers.
But practicing doesn’t require permission.
Ippolito’s first tape wasn’t even guaranteed to become a real audition.
He described it as a creative exercise and a long shot. (TheWrap)
That mindset matters.
The work still had value even if nobody watched it.
He was building the character.
He was practicing on camera.
He was testing ideas.
And when the filmmakers did watch, he was ready.
Your Self-Tape Can Be More Than a Submission
The story also demonstrates how powerful a good self-tape can be.
Actors sometimes treat self-tapes like administrative tasks:
Set up the camera.
Read the lines.
Send the file.
Done.
But a great self-tape is an opportunity to show filmmakers how you imagine the character.
Ippolito didn’t have professional sets or an elaborate production.
He had his grandmother’s basement, a heavy bag and an idea.
What mattered was whether filmmakers could see the character.
Apparently, they could.
You Don’t Need to Be the Biggest Name
Ippolito had professional credits before I Play Rocky. He previously portrayed a young Al Pacino in Paramount+’s The Offer.
But he was not a household-name movie star.
He was competing for the opportunity to portray one of Hollywood’s most recognizable actors in a major studio film.
And he got it.
That should matter to emerging performers.
Casting doesn’t always begin with the question:
“Who is the most famous actor we can hire?”
Sometimes filmmakers are searching for the person who makes them believe the character exists.
The Bigger Lesson for Actors
The strongest part of Ippolito’s story isn’t that every actor should start sending unsolicited tapes.
It’s this:
He acted like the opportunity was real before anyone promised him one.
He researched.
He trained.
He filmed.
He experimented.
Then, when the door opened, he already had something to show.
Actors can’t control every casting decision.
But they can control how seriously they prepare for the career they want.
Final Thoughts
Anthony Ippolito saw an article about a movie he desperately wanted to be part of.
There was no script in his hands.
No audition sides.
No official invitation.
So he hung a punching bag in his grandmother’s basement and started acting.
That homemade tape eventually reached the filmmakers.
They sent him the script.
He auditioned again.
And now he’s playing Sylvester Stallone in an Amazon MGM movie about one of Hollywood’s greatest underdog stories.
It is difficult to imagine a more appropriate casting story.
Sometimes the opportunity doesn’t begin with someone asking you to audition.
Sometimes it begins with deciding you’re going to be ready anyway.
Looking for your next opportunity? Explore film, television, commercial and streaming casting calls at ProjectCasting.com.
Talent agencies can now import up to 1,000 professionals into Project Casting at once and edit the profiles of talent they manage.
The new Professional Import tool lets your team upload roster information using a provided Excel template, with the option to include profile photos, video reels, CVs, and social media details.
Together, these updates make it easier to bring your roster onto Project Casting and keep talent information current as your agency grows.
Import Up to 1,000 Professionals at Once
Building out a roster takes time, especially when your agency represents hundreds of professionals. With Professional Import, you can prepare multiple profiles in one spreadsheet, with one row for each person.
Your import can include:
Profile information, including names, location, skills, and contact details.
Professional attributes, such as height, hair color, eye color, and production types.
Social media details and follower counts.
A main profile photo, a video reel, and a CV or résumé for each new profile.
Each import supports up to 1,000 professional rows. Optional fields can be left blank when information is unavailable, so your team can focus on completing the required details first.
Edit the Profiles of Talent Your Agency Manages
Talent agencies can also now edit their talent’s profiles on Project Casting. Your team has a direct way to maintain profile information as your roster changes.
Keeping profiles current helps people reviewing your talent work from accurate information. Combined with bulk importing, profile editing supports both bringing professionals onto the platform and managing their information over time.
How to Get Started
Request the template. Email support@projectcasting.com to receive the latest professionals.xlsx file. Always use the template supplied by Project Casting.
Add your roster information. Enter one professional per row and complete all required fields. These include the professional’s email, talent agency email, first and last name, date of birth, location, skill, and phone number.
Include media if available. Provide files in a separate media ZIP or use direct, publicly accessible HTTPS links. You can combine both methods in the same spreadsheet.
Upload and review. Upload the spreadsheet and, if needed, the media ZIP separately. Start the import, review the results, and correct any rows with reported errors before trying again.
A Few Details to Help Your Import Go Smoothly
Keep the spreadsheet’s column headings unchanged and use the approved dropdown options. If a location is unavailable, enter the city name only. For fields that support multiple values, separate approved values with a pipe character: |.
You can provide one file in each media column per professional: one profile photo, one video reel, and one CV. Media links must point directly to publicly accessible HTTPS files without a login, password, or special permissions.
Imported media is added only when a new professional profile is created. If a professional already has a profile, the import will not update or replace that profile’s existing media.
If you use a media ZIP, keep it within the upload size shown in the Professional Import window. The ZIP must not be encrypted or password-protected, and the spreadsheet must be uploaded separately.
Bring Your Talent Roster to Project Casting
Your agency’s time belongs with your talent and the opportunities you are helping them pursue. Professional Import gives your team a way to prepare profiles in bulk, while profile editing helps you maintain the roster you manage.
Ready to get started? Email support@projectcasting.com to request the Professional Import template and get help bringing your roster onto Project Casting.
Better Than The Movies Movie Adaptation Lands at Netflix With Julia Hart Set to Direct
Netflix is officially bringing Better Than The Movies to the screen.
The streaming giant has tapped acclaimed filmmaker Julia Hart to direct a feature adaptation of Lynn Painter’s bestselling young adult romantic comedy novel, Better Than The Movies. The project marks another major milestone for the beloved book, which continues to attract readers and romance fans five years after its original publication.
With a passionate fan base, a proven creative team, and one of the most popular YA romance stories in recent years, Better Than The Movies is shaping up to be one of Netflix’s most anticipated upcoming adaptations.
What Is Better Than The Movies About?
A #1 New York Times bestseller, Better Than The Movies follows Liz Buxbaum, a high school senior who believes life should play out like the romantic comedies she adores.
Determined to capture the attention of her longtime crush, Liz enlists the help of her frustrating—but undeniably charming—next-door neighbor. As the two spend more time together, Liz begins to realize that real-life romance may not follow the script she expected.
The novel cleverly embraces fan-favorite rom-com tropes, including:
Enemies to lovers
Fake relationships
Boy-next-door romance
Childhood crushes
Romantic comedy references
The story has resonated with readers for its humor, heart, and fresh take on modern romance.
Julia Hart to Direct the Netflix Adaptation
Julia Hart will direct the feature adaptation and also serves as a co-writer on the screenplay.
Hart collaborated on an early draft with her husband and creative partner Jordan Horowitz, while screenwriter Heather Flanders also contributed to the project.
Horowitz will produce through Original Headquarters alongside Shauna Phelan.
The project continues Hart’s growing relationship with Netflix following her upcoming teen drama Don’t Say Good Luck, starring Sunny Sandler.
Hart is known for directing:
Miss Stevens
Fast Color
I’m Your Woman
Disney’s Stargirl
Disney’s Hollywood Stargirl
Her experience creating character-driven stories centered around young adults makes her a strong fit for the adaptation.
Why Better Than The Movies Became a Bestseller
Since its publication by Simon & Schuster, Better Than The Movies has become one of the most successful YA romance novels of the past decade.
The novel has achieved:
#1 New York Times Bestseller status
41 months on The New York Times YA Paperback Bestseller List
12 weeks on The New York Times YA Hardcover Bestseller List
Its continued popularity has been fueled by social media, BookTok recommendations, and a devoted fan base that continues to champion Lynn Painter’s work.
Who Are the Casting Directors for Better Than The Movies?
Casting is one of the most important elements of any book-to-screen adaptation, especially for a fan-favorite novel like Better Than The Movies.
One of the casting teams attached to the Netflix project is MK Casting, a respected casting company known for helping productions identify emerging and established talent for film and television projects.
Casting directors work closely with producers and filmmakers to find actors who can authentically bring beloved characters to life. For Better Than The Movies, that means finding performers capable of capturing the chemistry, charm, humor, and emotional depth that readers have come to love from characters like Liz Buxbaum and Wes Bennett.
While Netflix has not yet announced the film’s cast, the involvement of experienced casting professionals signals that the project is moving forward as the production team begins assembling its ensemble.
Better Than The Movies Casting Call
Interested in auditioning for Better Than The Movies or similar Netflix productions?
Netflix ‘Better Than The Movies’ Lead Role Casting Call for Liz
Female Lead Actor Casting Call for Feature Film Adaptation
Job Description A feature film adaptation of a bestselling novel is seeking a female lead actor for a major starring role. Casting directors are looking for a talented young performer to portray a romantic, imaginative teenager navigating friendship, love, and personal growth. No acting experience is required, making this an exciting opportunity for both emerging and experienced talent. Singing and piano skills are a plus but are not required.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a lead character in a feature film adaptation
Deliver an authentic and emotionally engaging performance
Participate in rehearsals, filming, and promotional activities as required
Collaborate closely with directors and fellow cast members
Follow creative direction throughout production
Requirements
Female talent ages 18–25
White or mixed-race ethnicity
Red hair preferred
Strong personality and natural screen presence
Comfortable portraying a 17-year-old character
Singing and piano skills are a plus but not required
Must be available for the entire filming period in Chicago
Compensation
Lead role in a feature film adaptation
Professional acting credit
Opportunity to work on a major streaming production
Valuable industry exposure and career-building experience
Netflix ‘Better Than The Movies’ Lead Role Casting Call for Wes
Male Lead Actor Casting Call for Feature Film Adaptation
Job Description A feature film adaptation of a bestselling novel is seeking a male lead actor for a starring role. Casting directors are looking for a charismatic young performer to portray a talented athlete with humor, confidence, and emotional depth. This is an excellent opportunity for aspiring and experienced actors to take on a leading role in a major film production. No acting experience is required.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a lead character in a feature film adaptation
Perform dramatic and romantic scenes
Work closely with directors and cast members
Participate in rehearsals and filming activities
Bring authenticity and personality to the role
Requirements
Male talent ages 18–25
Open to all ethnicities
Athletic appearance preferred
Strong charisma and natural screen presence
Comfortable portraying a 17-year-old character
Ability to convey humor, confidence, and emotional vulnerability
Must be available for the entire filming period in Chicago
Compensation
Lead role in a feature film adaptation
Professional acting credit
Opportunity to appear in a major streaming production
Industry exposure and portfolio-building experience
The Netflix adaptation of Better Than The Movies is not the only Lynn Painter project heading to Hollywood.
The bestselling author recently set up a feature adaptation of her novel Fake Skating at Sony Pictures, with Will Gluck’s Olive Bridge Entertainment attached to produce.
As studios continue investing in romance-focused content, Painter’s growing catalog has become a valuable source of adaptation material.
What This Means for Fans of YA Romantic Comedies
Netflix has found success with young adult romance adaptations, and Better Than The Movies appears to be a perfect fit for the platform’s audience.
The combination of a bestselling source novel, an experienced director, and a dedicated fan base gives the project significant momentum as development continues.
Although casting announcements and a release date have not yet been revealed, fans are already eagerly awaiting news about who will portray Liz, Wes, and the rest of the novel’s beloved characters.
Stay Updated on Better Than The Movies Casting News
Want to stay informed about casting opportunities connected to Better Than The Movies and other major Netflix productions?
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Warner Bros. Developing Journey Movie About Arnel Pineda’s Extraordinary Rise to Rock Stardom
Warner Bros. is bringing one of rock music’s most inspiring true stories to the big screen. The studio is developing a feature film based on the remarkable life of Journey frontman Arnel Pineda, with Crazy Rich Asians director Jon M. Chu attached to direct.
The upcoming film will tell the incredible story of how a Filipino singer went from performing in small venues and overcoming homelessness to becoming the lead vocalist of one of the world’s most iconic rock bands. With a screenwriter currently being sought, the project is shaping up to be one of Warner Bros.’ most anticipated music biopics.
Warner Bros. and Jon M. Chu Reunite
Following the success of Crazy Rich Asians, Jon M. Chu continues his mission of bringing diverse and inspiring stories to audiences around the world. The filmmaker has expressed his passion for Arnel Pineda’s story, describing it as a modern-day fairy tale built on perseverance, extraordinary talent, and the life-changing power of music.
Warner Bros. is producing the film alongside Temple Hill Entertainment’s Marty Bowen. The studio has also acquired the rights to the acclaimed 2012 documentary Don’t Stop Believin’: Everyman’s Journey, while negotiations are underway to license Journey’s legendary catalog of songs written primarily by Steve Perry and Neal Schon.
The Incredible True Story Behind Journey’s New Lead Singer
Arnel Pineda’s journey is unlike anything Hollywood could have imagined.
Growing up in the Philippines, Pineda faced immense personal hardship, including periods of homelessness after losing his mother at a young age. Despite these struggles, he continued performing in local bands and singing classic rock songs throughout Manila.
Everything changed when videos of his performances were uploaded to YouTube.
Journey guitarist and co-founder Neal Schon, who had spent years searching for a vocalist capable of performing the band’s demanding catalog following Steve Perry’s departure, discovered Pineda online.
Impressed by his vocal ability, Schon invited Pineda to audition.
The opportunity transformed Pineda’s life overnight.
He became Journey’s new lead singer, helping revitalize one of rock’s most successful bands and introducing Journey to a new generation of fans through sold-out arena tours around the world.
What Will the Journey Movie Be About?
Rather than focusing solely on Journey’s decades-long history, the film will center on Arnel Pineda’s remarkable rise from struggling musician to international rock star.
The story will explore his difficult upbringing, his relentless pursuit of music, the viral YouTube videos that changed his life, and the unforgettable moment he stepped onto the world’s biggest stages as Journey’s lead vocalist.
Jon M. Chu has described the project as an inspirational film celebrating resilience, hope, and the belief that extraordinary opportunities can come from the most unexpected places.
Who Are the Casting Directors for the Journey Movie?
One of the key creative teams attached to the project is The Telsey Office, which is handling casting for the upcoming Journey feature film.
Formerly known as Telsey + Company, The Telsey Office is one of the entertainment industry’s most respected casting companies, with offices in New York and Los Angeles. The company is widely recognized for casting major feature films, television series, Broadway productions, streaming originals, and national commercials.
Throughout its history, The Telsey Office has helped discover rising talent while casting award-winning productions featuring some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Their expertise in identifying performers with both dramatic and musical abilities makes them a strong choice for a film centered on Arnel Pineda’s emotional and inspiring story.
As the project moves further into development, additional casting professionals may join the production, particularly as principal casting, supporting roles, and background casting begin. Actors interested in future opportunities should keep an eye on official production announcements as casting progresses.
What This Means for Actors
Although casting announcements have not yet been released, music biopics typically require a wide variety of performers. Productions of this scale often cast principal actors, musicians, concertgoers, journalists, crew members, production staff, fans, and numerous background performers.
As development continues and production moves closer to filming, casting opportunities are expected to be announced through official casting channels.
“Journey” Feature Film Speaking Role Casting Call for Adult Arnel Pineda
Adult Arnel Pineda for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is casting an actor to portray adult Arnel Pineda in a powerful biographical drama. The production is seeking a talented Filipino male performer who can capture Arnel’s passion, resilience, and musical talent. No previous acting experience is required, making this an excellent opportunity for skilled singers ready to take on a leading role.
Job Responsibilities
Portray adult Arnel Pineda in a feature film.
Deliver an authentic and emotionally compelling performance.
Perform singing sequences as required by the production.
Collaborate with the director and cast throughout filming.
“Journey” Feature Film Speaking Role Casting Call for Young Arnel Pineda
Young Arnel Pineda for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is seeking a young performer to portray Arnel Pineda during his teenage years in an inspiring biographical drama. Casting directors are looking for a Filipino male with strong vocal talent who can authentically portray Arnel’s hopeful spirit and determination. No prior acting experience is necessary.
With Jon M. Chu directing and Warner Bros. developing one of the most inspiring music biopics in recent years, excitement surrounding the Journey movie continues to grow.
Project Casting will continue following the production closely and provide the latest updates on casting announcements, filming locations, production news, and audition opportunities as they become available.
Find Your Next Acting Opportunity on Project Casting
Whether you’re an aspiring actor, background performer, musician, or entertainment professional, Project Casting is your source for the latest casting calls, film productions, television projects, and industry jobs.
Explore the newest casting calls on Project Casting today and take the next step toward your entertainment career.
Everything We Know About America’s Favorite: New Feature Film Set to Shoot in Virginia This Summer
Virginia continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the East Coast’s fastest-growing production hubs with the announcement of America’s Favorite, a new feature film set to begin production across Coastal Virginia this summer.
The upcoming thriller brings together an accomplished cast and creative team while creating new opportunities for local film professionals, businesses, and aspiring actors. As production prepares to roll cameras, America’s Favorite is already generating excitement among the entertainment industry and audiences alike.
If you’re hoping to land a role in the film, now is the perfect time to keep this project on your radar.
America’s Favorite Begins Filming in Virginia
Production on America’s Favorite will take place throughout the Hampton Roads region of Coastal Virginia, with filming expected to begin this summer.
Virginia officials say projects like America’s Favorite continue to strengthen the state’s film industry by creating jobs, supporting local vendors, and showcasing Virginia’s diverse filming locations to audiences around the world.
Governor Abigail Spanberger praised the production, noting that attracting major film projects helps boost the Commonwealth’s economy while expanding opportunities for local entertainment professionals.
What Is America’s Favorite About?
America’s Favorite centers on Peter Bale, an investigative reporter whose career has fallen from the spotlight.
Determined to rebuild his reputation, Bale hosts a live television special where he attempts to solve a string of murders in real time. As the investigation unfolds, the stakes rise, creating an intense thriller that blends crime, mystery, and live television drama.
Cast and Creative Team
Leading the film is Dane DeHaan, who stars as Peter Bale. DeHaan is widely recognized for performances in:
Oppenheimer
The Amazing Spider-Man 2
The film is directed by Eric Bross, whose previous directing credits include:
Affairs of State
A Country Christmas Story
Serving as executive producer is Robbie Brenner, whose impressive producing credits include:
Barbie
Dallas Buyers Club
The project is produced by independent producer Stephen Israel, who has previously brought several feature films to Virginia, including:
The Gateway
Last Moment of Clarity
Affairs of State
Additional high-profile cast members are expected to be announced as production moves forward.
Who Are the Casting Directors for America’s Favorite?
Casting for America’s Favorite is being led by Michelle Lewitt Casting, with Hutson Talent Agency also serving as one of the casting companies behind the project.
Michelle Lewitt is an accomplished casting director, producer, and casting professional who has been working in the entertainment industry since 1999. After transitioning from a background in athletics, she built an impressive career casting feature films, television productions, and independent projects. Her experience discovering talented performers and assembling standout casts has made her one of the industry’s respected casting professionals.
Joining the project is Hutson Talent Agency, which is also helping oversee casting for America’s Favorite. The agency has extensive experience working with actors across film, television, commercial, and entertainment productions, helping connect talent with opportunities throughout the industry.
With experienced casting professionals leading the project, actors can expect a professional casting process once auditions officially begin.
Why Hampton Roads Was Chosen
Producer Stephen Israel continues to return to Coastal Virginia because of its diverse filming locations, experienced crews, and film-friendly communities.
The Hampton Roads region offers productions everything from urban landscapes and waterfront settings to suburban neighborhoods, making it an ideal location for feature filmmaking.
Its growing production infrastructure has also helped attract more studios and independent filmmakers to the region in recent years.
Economic Impact of America’s Favorite
Beyond entertainment, America’s Favorite is expected to bring meaningful economic benefits to Virginia.
Feature film productions often support local communities by:
Hiring local cast and crew
Renting equipment from regional vendors
Booking hotels and accommodations
Supporting restaurants, transportation services, and local businesses
Showcasing Virginia locations to audiences worldwide
Projects like America’s Favorite help strengthen Virginia’s position as an increasingly attractive destination for film and television production.
Where Will America’s Favorite Film?
While production locations have not yet been officially finalized, filming is expected to take place primarily in:
Norfolk, Virginia
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Additional Hampton Roads locations may also be used throughout production.
More filming details are expected as production gets underway.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Corporate Office Employees
Corporate Office Employees for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is casting background actors to portray corporate office employees in a downtown office setting. Casting directors are looking for professional-looking talent to help create an authentic corporate environment. This featured background opportunity is open to both SAG-AFTRA and non-union performers.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a corporate office employee in background scenes.
Follow on-set direction from the production team.
Maintain continuity throughout filming.
Arrive in professional business attire suitable for an office environment.
Requirements
Ages 22–65.
Any gender.
Any ethnicity.
SAG-AFTRA and non-union talent welcome.
Able to portray a professional office employee.
Available to work both filming days.
Compensation
SAG-AFTRA: $231 for 8 hours, plus overtime and applicable allowances.
Non-union: $13.00/hour (approximately $104 for 8 hours), with time and one-half after 8 hours.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Male Stand-Ins
Male Stand-Ins for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is seeking two male stand-ins for an upcoming production. This behind-the-scenes role is ideal for dependable performers interested in working closely with the camera and lighting departments to prepare scenes before filming.
Job Responsibilities
Stand in for principal actors during lighting and camera setups.
Hit marks accurately and remain still as directed.
Assist the crew in preparing scenes for filming.
Follow instructions from the camera and lighting departments.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Paparazzi and Press Photographers
Paparazzi and Press Photographers for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is casting background actors to portray paparazzi and press photographers during a red carpet gala scene. This night shoot is seeking energetic performers who can help create an authentic media atmosphere.
Job Responsibilities
Portray paparazzi or press photographers at a red carpet event.
Follow production direction during filming.
Handle prop cameras as instructed.
Help create a realistic press environment.
Requirements
Ages 18–65.
Any gender.
Any ethnicity.
Comfortable working overnight.
Real photography experience is a plus but not required.
Available for both filming nights.
Compensation
SAG-AFTRA: $231 for 8 hours, plus overtime and applicable allowances.
Non-union: $13.00/hour (approximately $104 for 8 hours), with time and one-half after 8 hours.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Female Utility Stand-In
Female Utility Stand-In for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is seeking a female utility stand-in to assist the camera and lighting departments during production. This role is perfect for reliable performers interested in behind-the-scenes work on a professional film set.
Job Responsibilities
Stand in during lighting and camera setups.
Match production requirements for height and appearance.
Follow crew instructions and remain consistent between takes.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Male Utility Stand-In
Male Utility Stand-In for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is casting a male utility stand-in for an upcoming night shoot. This production is seeking a dependable performer to support the camera and lighting teams by standing in for actors during technical setup.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Office Employees
Office Employees for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is casting background actors to portray office employees working in a newsroom and television production office. Casting directors are seeking professional-looking performers to create an authentic workplace environment for multiple filming days. This opportunity is open to both SAG-AFTRA and non-union talent.
Job Responsibilities
Portray office employees in newsroom and television production scenes.
Follow on-set direction from the production team.
Maintain continuity throughout filming.
Wear business casual wardrobe appropriate for a professional office setting.
Requirements
Ages 22–60.
Any gender.
Any ethnicity.
SAG-AFTRA and non-union performers welcome.
Able to portray office professionals.
Available for all scheduled filming days.
Compensation
SAG-AFTRA: $231 for 8 hours, plus overtime and applicable allowances.
Non-union: $13.00/hour (approximately $104 for 8 hours), with time and one-half after 8 hours.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Production Driver
Production Driver for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is seeking a skilled production driver to transport cast members in a production vehicle during filming. This paid background role is ideal for experienced drivers who are comfortable operating high-end vehicles on camera with precision.
Job Responsibilities
Drive a production vehicle during filming.
Safely transport cast members as directed.
Follow on-set driving instructions and production safety guidelines.
Maintain professionalism throughout the shoot.
Requirements
Ages 21–70.
Any gender.
Any ethnicity.
Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
Comfortable driving a high-end production vehicle on camera.
Chauffeur, livery, or picture-car experience is a plus.
Compensation
SAG-AFTRA: $231 for 8 hours, plus overtime and applicable allowances.
Non-union: $13.00/hour (approximately $104 for 8 hours), with time and one-half after 8 hours.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Gala and Executive Security
Gala and Executive Security for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is casting background actors to portray gala and executive security personnel during an upscale event scene. Casting directors are looking for clean-cut performers who can convincingly portray professional security staff in a formal setting.
Job Responsibilities
Portray executive security personnel during gala scenes.
Follow production direction throughout filming.
Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.
Help create an authentic event security environment.
Requirements
Ages 25–60.
Any gender.
Any ethnicity.
Clean-cut appearance.
Comfortable portraying security personnel.
Available for night filming.
Compensation
SAG-AFTRA: $231 for 8 hours, plus overtime and applicable allowances.
Non-union: $13.00/hour (approximately $104 for 8 hours), with time and one-half after 8 hours.
No official casting calls have been announced for America’s Favorite at this time.
However, productions of this size typically hire:
Lead and supporting actors
Featured extras
Background actors
Stand-ins
Photo doubles
Local production crew
Actors interested in joining the production should have updated headshots, résumés, demo reels, and casting profiles ready as auditions are expected to be announced closer to production.
Final Thoughts
With an accomplished creative team, an intriguing mystery thriller storyline, and production taking place across Coastal Virginia, America’s Favorite is shaping up to be one of the region’s most exciting film productions.
Between its experienced filmmakers, respected casting team, and anticipated casting announcements, the project presents exciting opportunities for actors and film professionals alike.
If you’re hoping to be part of America’s Favorite, now is the time to stay informed as production continues to move forward.
Stay Updated on America’s Favorite Casting Calls
Looking to audition for America’s Favorite? Stay tuned to Project Casting for the latest casting calls, background actor opportunities, and production updates. We’ll keep you posted as soon as auditions and jobs become available so you don’t miss your opportunity to join this exciting feature film.
The upcoming biographical drama Ibelin is bringing one of the gaming world’s most touching true stories to the big screen.
Directed by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Morten Tyldum (The Imitation Game), Ibelin tells the remarkable story of Mats Steen, a young Norwegian gamer whose impact on thousands of people around the world wasn’t fully understood until after his passing. Through his online identity in World of Warcraft, Mats built lifelong friendships and became an inspiration to an entire gaming community.
Featuring an all-star cast led by Charlie Plummer, Toni Collette, Stephen Graham, and Bill Nighy, Ibelin is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated biographical dramas in development.
What Is Ibelin About?
Ibelin follows the life of Mats Steen, who was known online by his World of Warcraft character, Ibelin.
After Mats passed away, his parents initially believed he had lived an isolated life due to his physical condition. They were soon overwhelmed by thousands of messages from people around the world who considered Mats one of their closest friends.
Through his adventures in World of Warcraft, Mats created meaningful relationships, helped others through difficult moments, and became an important figure in an online community that extended far beyond the game itself.
The film explores themes of:
Friendship
Family
Grief
Identity
Disability
The power of online communities
Rather than focusing solely on gaming, Ibelin tells a deeply human story about connection, compassion, and finding belonging in unexpected places.
Ibelin Cast
The film features an impressive ensemble of award-winning actors and rising stars.
Confirmed Cast
Charlie Plummer as Mats Steen
Toni Collette as Trude Steen, Mats’ mother
Stephen Graham as Robert Steen, Mats’ father
Maisy Stella as Mia Steen, Mats’ younger sister
Isabela Merced
Bill Nighy
Kirby Howell-Baptiste
Ivanna Sakhno
John Bradley
Ekow Quartey
Clodagh Bhalla
Jax James
Several supporting character details have not yet been announced.
Who Are the Casting Directors Behind Ibelin?
Finding the right performers to tell Mats Steen’s inspiring story required an experienced casting team, and Ibelin has assembled professionals with decades of industry expertise.
Sarah Finn Leads Principal Casting
Award-winning casting director Sarah Finn is leading principal casting for Ibelin.
Finn is widely regarded as one of Hollywood’s most influential casting directors, having assembled casts for major films including:
Avengers: Endgame
Everything Everywhere All at Once
Crash
Throughout her career, Finn has earned a reputation for discovering emerging talent while pairing them with established award-winning performers. Her work on Ibelin helped bring together a remarkable ensemble led by Charlie Plummer, Toni Collette, Stephen Graham, Maisy Stella, Bill Nighy, Isabela Merced, Kirby Howell-Baptiste, Ivanna Sakhno, and John Bradley.
Her involvement reflects the production’s commitment to authentic, emotionally driven performances.
Procast Oversees Local Casting
International productions frequently partner with local casting agencies to recruit regional actors, background performers, and specialty talent.
For Ibelin, local casting is being handled by Procast, a Czech casting agency specializing in:
Supporting actors
Featured performers
Background actors
Stunt performers
Musicians
Dancers
Specialty talent
Working alongside Sarah Finn, Procast helps ensure the production has access to talented local performers while supporting filming logistics during international production.
Together, the casting team combines Hollywood experience with regional expertise to help bring Mats Steen’s inspiring story to life.
Production Updates
Development on Ibelin first began in 2022, when Vendôme Pictures announced plans to adapt Mats Steen’s extraordinary life story into a feature film.
Director Morten Tyldum signed on to helm the project, while Kyle Killen was originally attached to write the screenplay.
As development continued, the script evolved with Ilaria Bernardini and Hossein Amini writing the current version of the screenplay.
Timeline
2022
Vendôme Pictures announces the project.
Morten Tyldum joins as director.
Kyle Killen attached as screenwriter.
November 2025
Several major casting announcements are made, including:
Charlie Plummer
Toni Collette
Stephen Graham
Maisy Stella
Isabela Merced
Anthony Hopkins
April 2026
Production officially begins in Norway.
Additional cast members announced include:
Bill Nighy (replacing Anthony Hopkins)
Kirby Howell-Baptiste
Ivanna Sakhno
John Bradley
Acclaimed cinematographer Óscar Faura joins the production as director of photography.
“IBELIN” Feature Film Open Casting Call
Fantasy Hero Casting Call
Job Description
A fantasy feature film is casting men and women to portray heroic warriors and fighters in an epic fantasy production. Casting directors are seeking physically fit performers who can convincingly portray battle-ready heroes in a fantasy world. This is an exciting opportunity for athletic talent to appear in large-scale action scenes and bring immersive fantasy characters to life.
Job Responsibilities
Portray heroic fighters and warriors in fantasy battle scenes.
Participate in costume fittings before filming.
Follow direction from the production team during action sequences.
Maintain professionalism throughout the production.
Requirements
Men and women are encouraged to apply.
Men: Athletic build, tall, physically strong, with long or overgrown hair and long beards preferred.
Women: Excellent physical fitness with a natural appearance, including natural hair, eyebrows, and lips without modern makeup.
Must be available for all scheduled costume fittings and filming dates.
Must be able to work in Prague and surrounding areas.
Compensation
2,500 CZK per filming day.
Total compensation of 12,500 CZK for all five filming days.
Interest in Ibelin continues to grow because of the extraordinary true story behind the film and the acclaimed creative team bringing it to life.
The project builds on the widespread recognition of Mats Steen’s story, highlighting how online gaming communities can foster genuine friendships and lifelong connections.
With Morten Tyldum directing and a cast filled with acclaimed performers, Ibelin has the potential to become one of the most moving biographical dramas in recent years.
Beyond its emotional storytelling, the film also shines a spotlight on the evolving role of digital communities and the lasting impact one individual can have—even in virtual worlds.
Final Thoughts
Ibelin is much more than a film about gaming. It’s an inspiring story about friendship, love, resilience, and the unexpected ways people can change each other’s lives.
Backed by an award-winning director, a talented ensemble cast, and an accomplished casting team led by Sarah Finn and Procast, the film is poised to deliver an emotional and unforgettable cinematic experience.
As production moves forward, audiences can expect more casting announcements, behind-the-scenes updates, and eventually a first look at one of the year’s most anticipated biographical dramas.
Stay Updated with Project Casting
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Project Casting is your go-to source for breaking casting news, exclusive production updates, and auditions for film, television, commercials, and streaming projects.
Explore the latest casting calls on Project Casting today and take the next step toward your career in the entertainment industry.
Emily Deschanel to Lead NBC Criminal Profiler Drama Inspired by Dr. Ann Burgess
Emily Deschanel is returning to the world of criminal investigations with a new NBC drama pilot inspired by the groundbreaking work of renowned criminal profiler, researcher, and author Dr. Ann Burgess.
The Bones star has been cast in the lead role of NBC’s currently untitled drama pilot from Dean Georgaris and John Fox. The project combines criminal psychology, FBI investigations, and a victim-focused approach to solving complex cases.
For actors and entertainment professionals following KINGS casting, NBC auditions, television casting calls, and upcoming production opportunities, this is a project worth watching as casting and production move forward.
What Is NBC’s New Criminal Profiler Drama About?
The NBC pilot centers on Professor Georgia Ryan, played by Emily Deschanel.
Georgia is a trailblazing psychologist who challenges traditional approaches to criminology. Instead of focusing primarily on perpetrators, she shifts attention toward victims, searching for overlooked details that could provide critical clues investigators might otherwise miss.
Alongside her team, Georgia consults with the FBI to investigate some of its most difficult and elusive cases.
NBC originally ordered the pilot in January, with the story taking inspiration from the real-life career and research of Dr. Ann Burgess.
Who Is Dr. Ann Burgess?
Dr. Ann Burgess is an internationally recognized expert, researcher, and author whose work has contributed to the study of victims, offenders, trauma, and criminal profiling.
Her research provides real-world inspiration for the fictional Professor Georgia Ryan and the investigative philosophy at the center of the NBC pilot.
Burgess is directly involved in the production as a consulting producer, giving the series a connection to the groundbreaking work that inspired its premise.
Emily Deschanel Returns to Crime Television
The role brings Emily Deschanel back into familiar television territory.
Deschanel became widely known for playing forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance “Bones” Brennan on the long-running Fox series Bones. She starred in the procedural for 12 seasons and appeared in nearly 250 episodes.
She also served as a producer on Bones and made her directorial debut by directing the premiere of the show’s final season.
Professor Georgia Ryan represents a different kind of investigator, but there are similarities between the characters. Both are highly accomplished specialists whose expertise and unconventional approaches allow them to examine criminal cases from perspectives others may overlook.
Emily Deschanel’s Other Television and Film Credits
Outside of Bones, Deschanel has continued building a diverse television and film résumé.
Her television credits include TNT’s Animal Kingdom, ABC’s The Rookie, and Netflix’s Devil in Ohio. Her film credits include ReEntry and Big Boys.
Deschanel will also serve as a producer on the NBC pilot in addition to starring.
A Possible Bones Reunion at NBC
The NBC pilot also creates an interesting connection for longtime Bones fans.
David Boreanaz, who starred opposite Deschanel as FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth, has been tapped to lead NBC’s reboot pilot of The Rockford Files.
If both pilots ultimately receive series orders, the former Bones co-stars could simultaneously headline crime-related television dramas for NBC.
While the projects are separate, the possibility of seeing both actors leading NBC dramas adds another reason for Bones fans to follow the network’s upcoming television slate.
Who Is Behind the NBC Pilot?
Dean Georgaris and John Fox are writers and executive producers on the project.
John Davis serves as an executive producer through Davis Entertainment, while Emily Deschanel will produce in addition to starring.
Dr. Ann Burgess and Steve Constantine are consulting producers.
Universal Television is producing the pilot.
Who Are the Casting Directors for the NBC Criminal Profiler Drama?
The casting team behind the project includes experienced professionals Beth Bowling, Kim Miscia, and Nadia Lubbe Simon. Central Casting Georgia is also involved in casting for the production.
Together, the casting team brings experience spanning major television dramas, feature films, and background casting.
Beth Bowling
Beth Bowling, CSA is an award-winning casting director with extensive experience working on major television productions.
Her credits include Mad Men, Mr. Robot, The Flight Attendant, Hightown, Blue Bloods, Divorce, You, Dr. Death, and the original Gossip Girl. She has also received Emmy nominations for her casting work.
Bowling’s experience with character-driven dramas makes her a notable member of the casting team assembling the performers for this NBC project.
Kim Miscia
Kim Miscia is a casting director and producer whose credits include acclaimed television projects such as Mr. Robot and Mad Men.
Miscia and Bowling have worked together on multiple productions, bringing an established casting partnership to the NBC pilot. Their experience finding performers for complex, character-focused television series could play an important role as the production builds the world surrounding Professor Georgia Ryan.
Nadia Lubbe Simon
Nadia Lubbe Simon is a casting director and producer with experience across both television and feature films.
Her credits include projects such as Ladder 49, It’s Complicated, and Heartbreakers. Her involvement adds another experienced casting professional to the team responsible for identifying talent for the new NBC drama.
Central Casting Georgia
Central Casting Georgia is also one of the casting companies involved with the project.
Central Casting is widely known for background casting for television and film productions. Background performers help create the believable environments surrounding principal characters, from offices and public spaces to law enforcement and investigative settings.
A crime drama involving FBI investigations could potentially require a wide variety of background performers to portray agents, law enforcement personnel, office workers, university staff, civilians, witnesses, and other characters depending on individual scenes and production requirements.
Actors should rely on official casting notices for confirmed roles, eligibility requirements, filming dates, locations, and compensation.
KINGS Casting Call and Acting Opportunity
NBC ‘KINGS’ Casting Call for College Student
College Student Background Actors for New TV Series
Job Description
A new television series is seeking talent of all genders who can portray college students for paid background acting roles in Atlanta, Georgia. Selected performers will help create an authentic college environment while working alongside a professional television production team. This opportunity is ideal for aspiring actors and performers looking to gain valuable on-set experience. Use casting code: COLLEGE when applying.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a college student in background scenes for a new television series.
Perform naturally in campus and college-related scenes.
Follow direction from the production and assistant directing teams.
Maintain continuity and professionalism throughout filming.
Be prepared to work for the required duration of assigned scenes.
Requirements
Open to all genders.
Must be able to convincingly portray a college student.
Must be available to work in Atlanta, Georgia.
Comfortable appearing on camera as a background performer.
Able to follow on-set instructions and work effectively with other cast members.
A new television series is seeking a young male background actor to portray a newspaper boy in a period production filming in Atlanta. This paid child acting opportunity is open to boys of all ethnicities who can authentically fit the look and atmosphere of the historical setting.
Job Responsibilities
• Portray a newspaper boy in a period television scene.
• Perform natural background actions appropriate to the historical setting.
• Follow direction from the production and assistant directing teams.
• Maintain focus and continuity throughout filming.
• Work professionally and comfortably in a television production environment.
Requirements
• Male talent, ages 10–12.
• Open to all ethnicities.
• Must be able to authentically portray a newspaper boy in a period setting.
• Must be local to or able to work in Atlanta, Georgia.
As the NBC pilot progresses, performers following KINGS casting should keep an eye on confirmed casting announcements.
Crime and investigative television projects can involve a wide variety of characters, including principal actors, recurring performers, guest stars, day players, FBI agents, police officers, investigators, witnesses, suspects, victims, medical professionals, university personnel, and background actors.
Specific roles should not be assumed until casting directors or production representatives release official casting information.
Why Actors Should Watch This NBC Project
Television crime dramas can provide recurring opportunities for actors because new investigations often introduce additional characters and environments.
The involvement of experienced casting directors and Central Casting Georgia makes the project particularly relevant for performers interested in both principal and background opportunities.
However, the project is currently a pilot. A pilot order does not guarantee a full series order, as NBC will ultimately decide whether to move forward after evaluating the project.
What’s Next for Emily Deschanel’s NBC Pilot?
Emily Deschanel’s casting gives the project an experienced lead with a strong history in procedural television.
The combination of a victim-centered investigative premise, inspiration from Dr. Ann Burgess’ work, and an experienced creative and casting team makes the NBC drama one to follow as development continues.
For Bones fans, the project also offers the opportunity to see Deschanel return to the investigative genre in a new role built around psychology and criminology.
For actors and entertainment professionals, future casting announcements could provide another reason to keep the project on their radar.
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The search for the next James Bond continues, and former 007 star Pierce Brosnan believes audiences could be in for a major surprise.
Brosnan, who played the British secret agent across four films from 1995 to 2002, says he is following the casting speculation like everyone else. But rather than backing one of the famous actors repeatedly linked to the role, he believes Amazon MGM Studios could ultimately go in a completely unexpected direction.
Speaking to The Times, the 73-year-old actor suggested producers could “go left-field” and choose someone audiences barely know.
His comments arrive at an interesting moment for the franchise. Gary Oldman recently claimed the next Bond has already been selected, while Amazon MGM Studios has yet to officially announce Daniel Craig’s successor.
Pierce Brosnan Thinks the Next Bond Could Surprise Everyone
Brosnan isn’t trying to influence the decision.
Instead, he says he is now simply another audience member waiting to discover who will inherit one of cinema’s most recognizable roles.
“There are lots of good hats in the ring,” Brosnan told The Times, before suggesting the filmmakers could choose an actor “none of us know about.”
That would be a significant departure from years of online speculation surrounding established names.
Actors including Jack Lowden, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Harris Dickinson, Jacob Elordi and Callum Turner have all been associated with the conversation around the role, although speculation should not be confused with confirmed casting.
Amazon MGM’s most recent official casting update said the search was underway and that the studio would not comment on individual candidates during the process.
Pierce Brosnan Refuses to Name His Choice for 007
When asked who he personally would cast, Pierce Brosnan deliberately avoided giving a name.
He joked that his wife had warned him not to say anything because even a casual endorsement could quickly become a headline.
That caution makes sense. Few casting decisions generate as much sustained speculation as James Bond, and an endorsement from someone who actually played 007 would immediately carry additional weight.
Instead, Brosnan offered something closer to encouragement for whoever eventually gets the job.
He described himself as a member of the audience and said he was waiting for the next Bond while “wishing him well.”
Has the Next James Bond Already Been Cast?
That’s where the story becomes more complicated.
Gary Oldman recently suggested that a decision has already been made.
While discussing his Slow Horses co-star Jack Lowden on Canada’s The Morning Show, Oldman noted that Lowden has been rumored to be on the shortlist before saying the producers had already “made their choice” but had not announced it.
Oldman also made it clear that he hopes Lowden gets the role.
However, there is an important distinction.
Amazon MGM Studios has not officially announced the new James Bond.
Screenwriter Steven Knight has also declined to confirm the identity of the next 007 amid the latest speculation.
So while Oldman’s comments have fueled rumors that the search is effectively over, there is currently no official confirmation that Lowden, or anyone else, has been cast.
Why Jack Lowden Is Suddenly Getting More Attention
Lowden has been part of the Bond conversation for some time, but Oldman’s comments have pushed his name back into the spotlight.
The 36-year-old Scottish actor is best known internationally for playing River Cartwright opposite Oldman’s Jackson Lamb in Apple TV’s Slow Horses.
His other credits include Dunkirk, Mary Queen of Scots, Fighting With My Family and Benediction.
Lowden’s wife, Oscar-nominated actress Saoirse Ronan, has meanwhile expressed interest in entering the Bond universe herself.
Ronan has said she would be serious about playing a Bond villain, particularly the opportunity to explore a younger female antagonist.
For now, though, neither Lowden nor Amazon MGM has confirmed that he will be the next 007.
7 Things to Know About the Next James Bond Movie
As speculation continues, here are seven important facts about where the franchise currently stands:
No new Bond actor has been officially announced. Amazon MGM has publicly confirmed a casting search but has not named Daniel Craig’s successor.
Denis Villeneuve is directing. The Dune filmmaker officially joined the project in 2025 and has described Bond as “sacred territory.”
Steven Knight is writing the screenplay. The Peaky Blinders creator was officially announced as the film’s writer.
Amy Pascal and David Heyman are producing. Pascal Pictures and Heyday Films are leading production, with Tanya Lapointe serving as executive producer.
Gary Oldman believes a choice has been made. He recently suggested that producers have selected their actor, although the studio has not confirmed his claim.
Jack Lowden remains heavily discussed. Oldman openly said his “fingers are crossed” for his Slow Horses co-star.
This will be the first Bond era under Amazon MGM’s creative control. Amazon MGM, Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson remain co-owners of the Bond IP, but Amazon MGM gained creative control under their 2025 joint venture.
Denis Villeneuve Will Direct the New James Bond
Whoever becomes Bond will work with one of Hollywood’s most prominent filmmakers.
Amazon MGM Studios officially announced Denis Villeneuve as director in June 2025.
Villeneuve’s credits include Arrival, Blade Runner 2049 and the Dune films. When his Bond appointment was announced, the filmmaker revealed that some of his earliest moviegoing memories involved watching 007 films with his father.
He called himself a “die-hard Bond fan” and said he intends to respect the franchise’s traditions while creating a path for future adventures.
That suggests the next movie won’t simply be about replacing Daniel Craig. It will establish the creative direction for an entirely new Bond era.
Peaky Blinders Creator Steven Knight Is Writing the Movie
Villeneuve will be working from a screenplay by Steven Knight, whose career spans film and television.
Knight created Peaky Blinders and has worked on projects including Taboo, SAS Rogue Heroes, A Thousand Blows and All the Light We Cannot See.
Amazon MGM officially announced him as the next Bond screenwriter in July 2025.
Knight has remained careful when questioned about casting.
Amid recent speculation that the new actor may already have been chosen, he declined to reveal anything and emphasized that his responsibility is ultimately to write James Bond as a character.
A New Era Began When Amazon MGM Took Creative Control
The next movie also represents a major behind-the-scenes transition.
For decades, the Bond films were closely guided by producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, continuing the stewardship established by Albert R. “Cubby” Broccoli.
That structure changed in 2025.
Amazon MGM Studios, Wilson and Broccoli formed a joint venture to hold the franchise’s intellectual property rights. The three parties remain co-owners, while Amazon MGM gained creative control after the transaction closed in March 2025.
That means the next Bond actor won’t simply succeed Daniel Craig. He will become the face of the franchise’s first cinematic era developed under Amazon MGM’s creative leadership.
Pierce Brosnan Helped Revive Bond for a New Generation
Pierce Brosnan understands the pressure surrounding a new 007 better than most.
He took over from Timothy Dalton after a six-year gap between Bond movies and made his debut in GoldenEye in 1995.
The movie successfully introduced Bond to the post-Cold War era and began a four-film run for Brosnan.
He returned for Tomorrow Never Dies in 1997, The World Is Not Enough in 1999 and Die Another Day in 2002. The official 007 archive confirms all four films as part of his tenure.
Brosnan’s Bond blended the sophistication traditionally associated with the character with the larger-scale action filmmaking that increasingly defined blockbusters during the 1990s and early 2000s.
After Die Another Day, the franchise was rebooted with Daniel Craig in Casino Royale.
Daniel Craig Changed Expectations for Whoever Comes Next
Craig’s arrival in 2006 dramatically changed the tone of the series.
Beginning with Casino Royale, his Bond was more physically imposing, emotionally vulnerable and narratively connected across multiple movies.
Craig eventually appeared in five films: Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace, Skyfall, Spectre and No Time to Die. His tenure ended in 2021.
That creates an unusual challenge for the next actor.
Simply copying Craig would make little sense, but returning completely to an earlier interpretation could feel equally limiting.
The next Bond will need an identity strong enough to establish a new era while still retaining the characteristics audiences associate with Ian Fleming’s spy.
That may explain why Brosnan’s suggestion of an unexpected actor is particularly interesting.
Could an Unknown Actor Actually Become Bond?
Casting a less familiar performer wouldn’t be unprecedented for a major franchise.
A recognizable star provides immediate marketing value, but an emerging actor can arrive without audiences strongly associating them with another character.
For Bond, that could be particularly useful.
The selected actor will likely become closely identified with 007 for years, potentially appearing across multiple films while carrying enormous international expectations.
Choosing someone outside the most frequently discussed names could allow Villeneuve, Knight and the producers to build their version of Bond without the baggage that comes with an established superstar.
And if Brosnan’s prediction proves correct, the endless lists of rumored candidates may ultimately have been looking in the wrong direction.
The Bond Casting Decision Could Define the Franchise for Years
The question of who becomes the next James Bond has been hanging over Hollywood since No Time to Die concluded Craig’s run in 2021.
Now, meaningful pieces are finally in place.
Villeneuve is directing. Knight is writing. Pascal and Heyman are producing. Amazon MGM has creative control.
Only the face of the new era remains publicly unknown.
Whether the studio ultimately chooses Lowden, another frequently rumored actor or someone completely unexpected, Brosnan’s response reflects the unique position of a former Bond: he knows exactly how dramatically one casting announcement can change an actor’s life.
For now, he’s content to watch with everyone else.
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FAQs
Who does Pierce Brosnan think should be the next James Bond?
Brosnan hasn’t endorsed a specific actor. Instead, he suggested the producers could make a “left-field” choice and cast someone audiences don’t currently know.
Has the new James Bond actor officially been chosen?
Gary Oldman has claimed that a choice has been made, but Amazon MGM Studios has not publicly announced Daniel Craig’s successor. Until the studio confirms the casting, reports about specific actors remain speculation.
How Many James Bond Movies Did Pierce Brosnan Make?
Brosnan starred in four Bond films: GoldenEye (1995), Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), The World Is Not Enough (1999) and Die Another Day (2002). Daniel Craig succeeded him beginning with Casino Royale in 2006.
Could Paul Walker’s Brian O’Conner return for one final ride?
Cody Walker, the late actor’s younger brother, has addressed the possibility as the Fast & Furious franchise prepares for its planned finale, Fast Forever.
Cody and his brother Caleb famously stepped in as physical stand-ins after Walker died in 2013 while Furious 7 was still in production. Visual-effects artists then combined their performances with existing footage and digital work to complete Brian’s story.
But Cody says he has no interest in doing that again.
Instead, he believes today’s technology, including AI and years of unused footage featuring his brother, could potentially give filmmakers another option if Brian returns.
More importantly, Cody believes the final decision should respect the wishes of Walker’s daughter, Meadow Walker.
Paul Walker’s Brother Doesn’t Want to Be a Stand-In Again
Cody made his position clear in an interview with Entertainment Weekly.
“My stance is, it’s what Meadow wants to see done; it’s her father,” he said.
Cody explained that he wouldn’t be interested in serving as his brother’s stand-in again because he remains satisfied with the way Brian’s story concluded in Furious 7.
Rather than killing the character, filmmakers allowed Brian to leave the team’s increasingly dangerous life behind and focus on raising his family.
For Cody, that remains a meaningful ending.
He described Brian’s exit as “beautiful,” explaining that the character is still alive within the Fast & Furious universe and simply living away from the action.
Paul Walker Could Potentially Be Recreated Using New Technology
Paul Walker died long before today’s generative AI boom, and Cody believes filmmaking technology has advanced enough that he and Caleb would no longer necessarily need to perform as stand-ins.
“AI was not a thing back in 2014, so they could do that,” Cody said, while pointing out that the studio has years of unused footage from previous Fast movies.
His comments don’t mean AI has officially been selected to recreate Walker.
Universal has not publicly confirmed how Brian O’Conner would appear in the movie, or whether Walker’s likeness will be digitally recreated at all.
Cody’s remarks describe what he believes is technically possible, rather than an announced production plan.
Vin Diesel Wants Brian O’Conner in the Finale
The speculation exists because Vin Diesel has repeatedly discussed bringing Brian back.
At FuelFest in California in June 2025, Diesel told fans he had three conditions for concluding the franchise.
He wanted the story to return to Los Angeles, return to the car culture and street racing that defined the original movie, and reunite Dominic Toretto with Brian O’Conner.
“That is what you’re going to get in the finale,” Diesel told the crowd.
At the time, however, he didn’t explain how that reunion would happen.
Universal has since officially listed the next movie under the title Fast Forever and scheduled it for March 17, 2028.
That date supersedes the earlier April 2027 window Diesel discussed at FuelFest.
How Furious 7 Completed Walker’s Performance
The franchise has already faced the extraordinarily difficult challenge of finishing a movie without one of its leading actors.
Walker died on November 30, 2013, at age 40, while Furious 7 was still being made.
Production was temporarily suspended while the filmmakers determined how to proceed.
Universal later announced that Walker had already completed his dramatic scenes and most of his action work. His brothers Cody and Caleb Walker subsequently joined the production to help complete remaining material.
The finished performance was much more complicated than simply placing a digital face onto a stand-in.
Wētā Digital, now known as Wētā FX, used previous footage of Walker, scans of his brothers, body doubles, digital reconstruction and meticulous compositing to complete the character’s remaining scenes.
Visual-effects supervisor Joe Letteri explained that the goal wasn’t to create a new interpretation of Brian. The team wanted to complete the performance as faithfully as possible to what Walker himself might have done.
7 Things to Know About Brian O’Conner’s Possible Return
Here are seven important details surrounding the possibility of seeing Brian again:
Vin Diesel wants Brian and Dom reunited. Diesel publicly identified their reunion as one of his conditions for the franchise finale.
Cody Walker won’t serve as a stand-in again. He says he is happy with Brian’s existing farewell and isn’t interested in repeating his Furious 7 role.
Cody believes Meadow Walker’s opinion matters most. He says any decision involving her father’s character should ultimately respect what she wants.
AI is only a possibility. Cody mentioned AI as technology filmmakers could potentially use, but no official AI recreation of Walker has been announced.
Unused footage could be important. Cody specifically noted that years of footage from earlier Fast movies remain available.
The franchise has digitally completed Walker’s performance before. Wētā used his brothers, archival material and extensive visual effects to finish Furious 7.
The finale now has an official date. Universal currently lists Fast Forever for theatrical release on March 17, 2028.
Furious 7 Used Hundreds of Visual-Effects Shots
The technology used in 2014 and 2015 was already remarkably sophisticated.
Wētā’s artists were responsible for hundreds of shots involving Walker’s unfinished performance.
Some of the most challenging moments weren’t enormous action sequences. Close-ups and dialogue scenes were particularly difficult because viewers could concentrate on subtle facial expressions without fast editing or action distracting them.
The team used Cody, Caleb and actor John Brotherton as physical references and stand-ins. Existing footage of Walker was then extensively studied to preserve his mannerisms and interpretation of Brian.
That history is important because a potential appearance in Fast Forever wouldn’t represent the first time the franchise used technology to finish a Walker performance.
AI, however, would introduce a different set of creative and ethical questions.
Why Cody Walker Prefers Brian’s Existing Ending
Cody’s reluctance isn’t based simply on not wanting to return to a film set.
He genuinely likes where the filmmakers left Brian.
The final sequence of Furious 7 gave Walker and his character an emotional farewell without turning Brian’s departure into an on-screen death.
Brian and Dom drive together before eventually reaching a fork in the road and heading in different directions.
The scene was accompanied by Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth’s “See You Again” and became both the character’s farewell and a tribute to Walker himself.
Within the franchise, Brian remains alive.
Later films have maintained that idea, explaining his absence without undoing the ending Furious 7 created.
For Cody, bringing Brian back therefore needs a compelling reason.
Meadow Walker Has Her Own Connection to Fast & Furious
Cody’s decision to defer to Meadow is particularly meaningful because Walker’s daughter has maintained a relationship with the franchise.
Meadow made a cameo in Fast X in 2023, appearing as a flight attendant who helps Jakob Toretto, played by John Cena.
Diesel has also remained publicly close with Walker’s family.
That connection reinforces one of the franchise’s longest-running themes: family extends beyond the characters audiences see on screen.
Cody’s position is that if filmmakers ever digitally revisit his brother’s character, the wishes of Walker’s daughter should carry more weight than his own willingness to participate.
AI Would Raise New Questions for Hollywood
A potential digital return would also arrive at a very different moment for the entertainment industry.
When Furious 7 was completed, filmmakers relied heavily on traditional visual effects, digital compositing, archival footage and performances from physical stand-ins.
Today’s filmmakers also have access to rapidly developing AI tools capable of generating or altering voices, faces and performances.
That has created significant debate about digital replicas, performer consent and how deceased actors’ likenesses should be handled.
The key distinction in this case is that no AI plan has been confirmed.
Cody is saying filmmakers could potentially use the technology. He isn’t announcing that Universal will.
If it does happen, however, Fast Forever could become one of Hollywood’s most closely scrutinized examples of how modern technology is used to represent a deceased performer.
Paul Walker Remains Central to the Fast & Furious Legacy
Paul Walker first played Brian O’Conner in The Fast and the Furious in 2001.
Brian began the franchise as an undercover LAPD officer investigating Dominic Toretto’s street-racing crew. His relationship with Dom gradually transformed him from an outsider into one of the family’s central members.
Walker subsequently appeared in 2 Fast 2 Furious, Fast & Furious, Fast Five, Fast & Furious 6 and Furious 7.
The franchise has now generated more than $7 billion worldwide, evolving from a relatively grounded street-racing movie into one of Universal’s biggest action properties.
But Brian and Dom’s friendship remains foundational to the series.
That helps explain why Diesel wants the franchise to finish where it started: Los Angeles, street racing and the relationship between the two characters.
What We Know About Fast Forever
Universal currently provides relatively few official details about Fast Forever beyond its title and theatrical date.
The studio’s official website lists the movie for March 17, 2028.
Diesel has said he wants the final chapter to bring the franchise back to Los Angeles and its street-racing origins while reuniting Dom and Brian.
What remains unanswered is arguably the biggest question:
How will Brian return?
Cody won’t be stepping in again. AI hasn’t officially been chosen. And the filmmakers haven’t explained whether Brian’s appearance would involve archival footage, digital effects, a brief cameo or something more substantial.
For now, the possibility remains exactly that: a possibility.
But Cody Walker’s comments make one thing clear. If Brian O’Conner does take one last ride, he believes it should happen only in a way that respects his brother’s legacy — and the wishes of his daughter.
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FAQs
Could Paul Walker Return in the Final Fast & Furious Movie?
Brian O’Conner could potentially appear in Fast Forever. Vin Diesel has publicly said he wants Dom and Brian reunited, but Universal has not confirmed how the character would return or whether AI will be used.
What Did Paul Walker’s Brother Say About Using AI?
Cody Walker said modern technology and unused footage could potentially allow filmmakers to recreate Brian without requiring him or Caleb Walker to serve as stand-ins again. He also emphasized that he believes the decision should respect Meadow Walker’s wishes.
When Will the Final Fast & Furious Movie Be Released?
Universal currently lists Fast Forever for theatrical release on March 17, 2028. Vin Diesel previously discussed an April 2027 target, but the studio’s current official schedule confirms the later 2028 date.
Andrew Garfield is playing one of the most influential figures in artificial intelligence, but the actor remains optimistic that technology will never fully replace what makes people human.
The 43-year-old actor portrays OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in Artificial, Luca Guadagnino’s upcoming comedy-drama about the dramatic 2023 leadership crisis at OpenAI.
While promoting the film, Garfield shared his own perspective on artificial intelligence, arguing that technological progress does not mean humanity has made itself obsolete.
“The toothpaste is definitely out of the tube,” Garfield told The Hollywood Reporter, before adding that he has “a lot of hope” humanity will prevail.
His reason is simple: Garfield believes human creativity, spirit and emotional connection cannot be artificially reproduced.
Andrew Garfield Believes the Human Soul Can’t Be Artificialized
Garfield acknowledged that AI is already here and will continue influencing society.
But he draws a clear distinction between artificial intelligence and human intelligence.
“Artificial intelligence, the name is on the tin. It’s artificial,” Garfield said. “It’s not soul intelligence. It’s not human intelligence.”
The actor said he believes deeply in the “unreplicable nature” of the human soul and spirit.
That philosophy also shapes the stories he wants to tell.
Garfield remains interested in work that emphasizes human connection and doesn’t believe emerging technologies will replace experiences such as sitting inside a movie theater, watching live theater or attending a concert.
His comments arrive as entertainment industries continue debating how generative AI could affect writing, acting, visual effects and other creative professions.
Andrew Garfield Wants to Keep Telling Human Stories
For Andrew Garfield, the debate isn’t simply about whether AI can produce images, scripts or performances.
It’s about whether technology can reproduce the emotional connection created between human beings.
Garfield described new technology as potentially useful “tools,” but stopped short of treating those tools as substitutes for human creativity.
That distinction is particularly relevant to actors.
Performance depends on experiences that are difficult to quantify: memory, vulnerability, physical presence, emotional interpretation and the relationship between performers and audiences.
Garfield’s argument is that those qualities remain fundamentally human, even as the tools surrounding filmmaking continue evolving.
Artificial Puts Garfield at the Center of the AI Debate
His comments carry additional weight because his next major role places him directly inside one of the defining technology stories of the past decade.
In Artificial, Garfield plays Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI.
Directed by Luca Guadagnino and written by Simon Rich, the film dramatizes the internal struggle that led OpenAI’s board to remove Altman as CEO in November 2023 before he returned days later.
The New York Film Festival describes the movie as a drama exploring roughly two decades of machine-learning development leading into today’s AI landscape. The film will have its world premiere at the 64th New York Film Festival on October 5, 2026.
Garfield has said he has never personally met Altman, meaning his portrayal was built through research, interviews, available footage and the screenplay.
Who Else Stars in Artificial?
Garfield isn’t the only actor portraying a recognizable figure from the technology industry.
Yura Borisov, the Oscar-nominated star of Anora, plays OpenAI co-founder and former chief scientist Ilya Sutskever, who was involved in the board decision that removed Altman.
Monica Barbaro portrays former OpenAI chief technology officer Mira Murati, while Ike Barinholtz plays Elon Musk, who co-founded OpenAI before later leaving the organization.
The larger ensemble includes Jason Schwartzman, Cooper Hoffman, Cooper Koch, Billie Lourd, Zosia Mamet, Chris O’Dowd and Mark Rylance.
The film also reunites Garfield with Guadagnino after their collaboration on After the Hunt.
7 Things to Know About Artificial
Here are seven important details about Garfield’s upcoming AI drama:
Garfield plays Sam Altman. The actor portrays the OpenAI CEO during one of the company’s most turbulent periods.
Luca Guadagnino directs. The filmmaker’s credits include Call Me by Your Name, Challengers, Queer and After the Hunt.
Simon Rich wrote the screenplay. Rich’s previous film work includes An American Pickle, along with story contributions to projects including Inside Out and Wonka.
The story centers on Altman’s 2023 firing. OpenAI’s board removed Altman as CEO before he returned to the position days later.
The film has a major ensemble. Yura Borisov, Monica Barbaro, Ike Barinholtz, Jason Schwartzman and Mark Rylance are among the supporting cast.
Neon will release the movie. Amazon MGM Studios originally developed the project but dropped it in June 2026. Neon subsequently acquired worldwide theatrical distribution rights.
The theatrical release begins Christmas Day. After its October 5 NYFF premiere, Neon plans a limited U.S. theatrical release on December 25, 2026, followed by a wider rollout in January 2027.
Artificial Had an Unusual Journey to Theaters
The movie’s path to release has itself become part of the story.
Amazon MGM Studios originally backed Artificial, but the studio announced in June that it would no longer distribute the nearly completed film.
The decision attracted attention because it came months after Amazon announced a major commercial partnership with OpenAI.
Amazon said it believed the movie would be “better served” by another distributor and that it would work with the filmmaking team to find a new home. There has been no confirmed evidence that the OpenAI partnership caused the decision.
Neon ultimately acquired the movie for worldwide theatrical distribution and is positioning it for an awards-season release.
The first teaser arrived on September 8, offering audiences their clearest look yet at Garfield’s transformation into Altman.
The Role Brings Garfield Back to Silicon Valley
There is an interesting full-circle element to the casting.
More than 15 years ago, Garfield played Eduardo Saverin in David Fincher’s The Social Network, Aaron Sorkin’s dramatization of Facebook’s early years.
The performance earned Garfield widespread acclaim and helped establish him internationally before The Amazing Spider-Man.
Now he’s returning to the world of technology companies and powerful founders from a completely different perspective.
Instead of portraying the friend and business partner pushed away from a growing company, he’s playing the executive at the center of a corporate battle that briefly removed him from power before an extraordinary return.
The parallels make Artificial an intriguing continuation of Garfield’s relationship with Silicon Valley stories, even though the two films are unrelated.
Andrew Garfield Is Also Leading The Uprising
Andrew Garfield has another major project arriving much sooner.
He stars in The Uprising, director Paul Greengrass’ historical action drama inspired by England’s 1381 Peasants’ Revolt.
Garfield plays a farmer known as Ploughman who becomes involved in a rebellion against the political and economic system governing medieval England.
The film also stars Jamie Bell, Cosmo Jarvis, Thomasin McKenzie, Katherine Waterston, Tom Hollander, Stephen Dillane, Jonny Lee Miller and Woody Norman.
The movie opens in U.S. theaters on September 11, 2026.
Garfield Hopes The Uprising Makes Audiences Think About Inequality
Garfield’s comments about The Uprising reveal another theme connecting his recent work: concern about power and how it affects ordinary people.
The actor said he hopes audiences recognize their own struggles in characters living in a radically different historical period.
He described wanting the movie to feel “galvanising” and suggested that its themes could encourage viewers to think about modern inequality.
Garfield even joked provocatively that he hopes any billionaires who see the film leave “scared” by its message.
The historical drama and Artificial are obviously very different movies, but both examine individuals confronting systems with enormous concentrations of power.
Why Garfield’s AI Comments Matter for Actors
The entertainment industry’s relationship with AI has become particularly important for performers.
Generative technology has raised questions around digital replicas, synthetic voices, screenwriting, visual effects and how human creative work will be valued as AI systems become more capable.
Garfield isn’t arguing against technology itself.
His position is more optimistic.
Technology can become another filmmaking tool, but he believes the emotional exchange between a human performer and an audience remains something fundamentally different.
For aspiring actors, that perspective is significant.
Casting may evolve. Production technology will evolve. The tools available to filmmakers will continue changing.
But the qualities actors spend years developing — interpretation, emotional truth, imagination and connection — remain rooted in human experience.
What’s Next for Garfield?
Garfield enters the final months of 2026 with two dramatically different leading roles.
The Uprising puts him inside a medieval rebellion, while Artificial places him at the center of one of the most consequential technology debates of the modern era.
His comments suggest he isn’t ignoring the scale of AI’s potential impact.
Instead, he’s drawing a boundary between technological capability and human experience.
AI may continue becoming more sophisticated.
But Garfield believes there is still something technology cannot reproduce: the human soul behind the story.
Stay Updated on Entertainment News and Casting Opportunities
Whether you’re following Hollywood’s biggest filmmakers or looking for your next acting opportunity, Project Casting keeps you connected with the entertainment industry.
Explore the latest casting calls and jobs, stay informed with entertainment news, and if you have any questions, visit or email.
FAQs
What Did Andrew Garfield Say About Artificial Intelligence?
Garfield said he remains hopeful about humanity despite the rapid development of AI. He believes artificial intelligence cannot reproduce the human soul, spirit or the emotional connections created through human storytelling.
Is Andrew Garfield Playing Sam Altman in Artificial?
Yes. Garfield portrays OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in Luca Guadagnino’s Artificial. The film focuses on the events surrounding Altman’s temporary removal as OpenAI CEO in November 2023 and his return days later.
When Is Artificial Being Released?
Artificial will have its world premiere at the New York Film Festival on October 5, 2026. Neon plans to release the film in select U.S. theaters on December 25, 2026, before expanding it more widely in January 2027.
Sydney Sweeney isn’t interested in simply showing up in front of the camera.
The 28-year-old Euphoria star has increasingly expanded her career into producing, entrepreneurship and brand partnerships, and she says taking on more responsibilities actually helps her perform better.
Speaking with Complex, Sweeney explained that she enjoys being involved throughout the entire creative process, from casting and budgeting to marketing and distribution.
“I actually find myself being able to work better when I have more hats to wear,” she said.
Her latest example is a partnership with sports prediction platform Novig, where Sweeney isn’t simply appearing in the company’s new “Just Sports” campaign. She has joined the business as a strategic partner and equity holder and was involved creatively from the beginning.
Sydney Sweeney Wants to Be Involved From the Ground Up
Sweeney told Complex that having a voice across different parts of a project gives her a stronger sense of ownership.
That means understanding decisions that actors traditionally haven’t been expected to handle.
She wants to know how a production is cast, how much it costs, how it will be marketed, who might buy it and which audiences it is trying to reach.
The experience has also changed how she views filmmaking crews.
According to Sweeney, learning what happens behind the scenes has helped her better appreciate every person working on a production.
It’s a philosophy that has increasingly shaped her Hollywood career.
Sydney Sweeney Says Creative Authority Helps Her Learn
For Sydney Sweeney, taking on additional responsibilities isn’t simply about gaining more control.
She sees it as an opportunity to learn.
Producing allows her to participate in conversations that might otherwise happen without an actor present, while entrepreneurship has introduced her to different sides of branding, marketing and business strategy.
That approach is becoming an important part of her professional identity.
Sweeney still considers acting central to her career, but she has increasingly positioned herself as someone who wants to help build projects rather than simply be cast in them.
Producing Has Become a Major Part of Sweeney’s Career
Sweeney launched her production company Fifty-Fifty Films in 2020 and has steadily expanded her producing credits.
Her first major producing breakthrough came with Anyone But You, the 2023 romantic comedy she starred in opposite Glen Powell. Sweeney served as an executive producer on the film, which became a major box-office success.
She subsequently produced the 2024 horror film Immaculate, a project she had originally auditioned for years earlier before helping revive it through her production company.
Her producing work continued with Christy, the biographical drama in which she portrayed boxer Christy Martin, and The Housemaid, the psychological thriller starring Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried.
That growing résumé shows how deliberately she has moved beyond acting alone.
7 Ways Sweeney Is Expanding Beyond Acting
Sweeney’s recent career offers several examples of the “more hats” philosophy she described:
She executive produced Anyone But You. Sweeney helped develop the romantic comedy while also starring opposite Glen Powell.
She produced Immaculate. Her company helped bring the horror project back to life after Sweeney had originally auditioned for an earlier version years before.
She produced Christy. Sweeney transformed physically to portray professional boxer Christy Martin while also working behind the camera.
She executive produced The Housemaid. The adaptation paired her with Amanda Seyfried and continued her move into commercially driven projects.
She founded SYRN. Sweeney launched her lingerie company in January 2026 and described herself as its sole founder.
She became an equity partner in Novig. Rather than accepting a traditional endorsement deal, Sweeney took a financial stake and strategic role in the sports prediction company.
Her producing slate continues growing. Projects connected to her as a producer or executive producer include Gundam, Split Fiction, The Housemaid’s Secret and other films in development.
Together, those ventures show a career increasingly built around ownership and creative involvement.
Sweeney Joins Novig as an Equity Partner
Her latest business move is with Novig, a sports prediction market that launched its first national brand campaign this week.
The company announced Sweeney as both a strategic partner and equity holder.
The campaign, titled “Just Sports,” emphasizes Novig’s decision to focus its prediction markets exclusively on sporting events rather than areas such as politics.
Sweeney told Complex that she doesn’t like simply putting her face on a product.
Instead, she wants partnerships where she can work with the team and participate in the creative process.
She said she developed a strong relationship with Novig co-founder and CEO Jacob Fortinsky and believed in him as a founder.
The ‘Just Sports’ Campaign Takes a Bold Approach
The campaign itself is intentionally provocative.
Sweeney appears in a series of sports-themed setups using footballs, basketballs, hockey equipment and other athletic gear as part of the visual concept.
According to Novig, the campaign is designed to cut through the noise surrounding the growing prediction-market industry by emphasizing one message: the platform is focused on sports.
Sweeney said she was involved in creative conversations from the beginning and described the concept as simple, playful and humorous.
The campaign was filmed while she was in Australia working on Netflix’s live-action Gundam movie.
Novig says the campaign will run across digital platforms, social media, online video and out-of-home advertising throughout football season.
SYRN Gives Sweeney Another Form of Ownership
The Novig partnership follows another significant business move.
Earlier this year, Sweeney launched SYRN, her own lingerie company.
She told Elle that years of dealing with uncomfortable wardrobe pieces while working as an actress helped inspire the business.
Rather than simply licensing her name to an established fashion company, Sweeney described herself as SYRN’s sole founder and said she wanted to create lingerie designed around different bodies rather than expecting women to fit a single standard.
That distinction fits closely with what she’s now saying about her wider career.
Whether she’s making a film or developing a business, Sweeney appears increasingly interested in having a meaningful role in how the final product is created.
Sydney Sweeney Has Built a Career Around Taking Risks
Sydney Sweeney has also resisted being defined by a single character or genre.
Her breakthrough performances in Euphoria and The White Lotus established her as one of television’s most recognizable young actors.
But her subsequent film choices have moved between radically different genres.
She starred in romantic comedy Anyone But You, horror film Immaculate, superhero movie Madame Web, psychological thriller The Housemaid and boxing biopic Christy.
Sweeney previously said she has deliberately fought against being typecast as Cassie, her emotionally volatile Euphoria character.
She pointed to projects including Reality, Christy, The Housemaid, Eden and Anyone But You as evidence that she’s actively seeking different kinds of roles.
Sports Were Part of Sweeney’s Life Before Acting
Her Novig partnership also connects with an interest that predates her Hollywood career.
Sweeney has described herself as highly athletic growing up.
She participated in sports including soccer and softball and trained in mixed martial arts. Her interest in athletics eventually became professionally useful when she underwent extensive physical preparation to portray boxer Christy Martin.
But there was another childhood ambition that never happened.
Sweeney told Complex that when she was around 12, she wanted to compete at the X Games as a wakeboarder.
Acting ultimately became her career instead.
Now, her work with Novig has unexpectedly brought sports, entertainment and business together.
Why Sweeney’s Approach Matters for Young Actors
Sweeney’s career reflects a broader shift in what being an actor can look like.
Actors historically depended heavily on studios, producers and casting directors to determine which opportunities reached them.
Producing provides another route.
Instead of waiting for the right character to appear, actors can identify material, develop projects, hire creative teams and participate in decisions about how their work reaches audiences.
That doesn’t mean every performer needs to become a producer or entrepreneur.
But understanding the business surrounding acting can provide greater context about why certain casting, budgeting and marketing decisions are made.
Sweeney’s approach demonstrates one possible path: learn what happens beyond the audition room and become involved in creating opportunities as well as pursuing them.
What’s Next for Sweeney?
Sweeney’s schedule suggests she has no plans to reduce the number of hats she’s wearing.
She recently completed work in Australia on the live-action Gundam film, which also stars Noah Centineo. Her development slate includes projects that continue giving her producing responsibilities alongside acting roles.
At the same time, SYRN gives her a company outside Hollywood, while the Novig deal adds another equity partnership to her portfolio.
The common thread is ownership.
Whether she’s sitting in casting discussions, reviewing marketing strategies, developing a movie or investing in a company, Sweeney wants to understand how the entire operation works.
For her, apparently, having more responsibilities isn’t a distraction.
It’s how she works best.
Stay Updated on Entertainment News and Casting Opportunities
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Explore the latest casting calls and jobs, stay informed with entertainment news, and if you have any questions, visit or email.
FAQs
Why Does Sydney Sweeney Say She Works Better With More Responsibilities?
Sweeney says she enjoys being involved throughout the creative process. Producing allows her to participate in decisions involving casting, budgets, marketing and distribution while gaining a deeper understanding of how productions operate.
What Is Sydney Sweeney’s Production Company?
Sweeney founded Fifty-Fifty Films in 2020. Her producing credits include Anyone But You, Immaculate, Christy and The Housemaid, with additional projects in development.
What Is Sydney Sweeney’s Role With Novig?
Sweeney has joined Novig as a strategic partner and equity holder, not simply as a spokesperson. She also helped develop the company’s “Just Sports” campaign and said she was involved in creative conversations from the beginning.
Sandra Bullock has opened up about the harsh reaction to Practical Magic and why the criticism initially made her question whether she had made a mistake by starring in the movie.
Speaking with Jennifer Aniston for Interview magazine, the 62-year-old actress reflected on the reception to the 1998 fantasy film, which paired her with Nicole Kidman as magical sisters Sally and Gillian Owens.
While Practical Magic is now considered a cult favorite, Bullock remembers a very different response when it first arrived in theaters.
She said the movie was “absolutely eviscerated” by critics, with some reviews questioning its focus on women and emotion. The backlash affected Bullock personally, leaving her with what she described as a “decent amount of shame.”
Nearly three decades later, however, audiences have transformed the movie’s legacy — and Bullock and Kidman are returning for Practical Magic 2.
Sandra Bullock Says the Original Practical Magic Was ‘Eviscerated’
The original Practical Magic arrived in theaters in October 1998.
Directed by Griffin Dunne and adapted from Alice Hoffman’s 1995 novel, the movie followed sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, descendants of a family of witches living under a centuries-old romantic curse.
Bullock played Sally opposite Kidman’s Gillian, with Dianne Wiest, Stockard Channing, Aidan Quinn and Goran Višnjić among the supporting cast.
The movie struggled with critics.
Today, the original holds a 30% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, compared with a much stronger 73% audience score, illustrating the divide between its critical reception and the affection it later developed among viewers.
Bullock recalled that reviews at the time could be particularly dismissive of the film’s emotional and female-centered storytelling.
For an actor still establishing herself as one of Hollywood’s leading stars, the response hit hard.
Sandra Bullock Thought She Had ‘Done Something Wrong’
Sandra Bullock admitted that the criticism made her internalize the movie’s reception.
“I had a decent amount of shame because I thought I’d done something wrong,” she recalled, describing her reaction as essentially deciding she wouldn’t make that kind of movie again.
But something unexpected happened.
Practical Magic didn’t disappear.
Instead, viewers continued discovering it on home video, television and eventually streaming. Bullock credits the growth of online communities and social media with allowing audiences to communicate what the movie meant to them.
The actress said mothers began sharing the film with their daughters, who then grew up and introduced it to another generation.
What initially looked like a disappointment gradually became one of the most enduring films in both Bullock and Kidman’s careers.
How Practical Magic Became a Cult Classic
Part of the film’s staying power comes from how difficult it is to place inside a single genre.
Practical Magic combines romance, comedy, supernatural fantasy, family drama and darker themes while keeping the relationship between Sally and Gillian at its center.
That unusual combination frustrated some critics in 1998.
For later audiences, it became part of the appeal.
The chemistry between Bullock and Kidman has also remained one of the movie’s strongest elements. Even Rotten Tomatoes’ critical consensus, while negative about the film overall, specifically acknowledges the strength of their pairing.
Its themes of sisterhood, female friendship, grief, love and generational trauma also gave viewers more to return to than its supernatural premise alone.
Nearly 28 years later, that audience loyalty has helped make a theatrical sequel possible.
7 Things to Know About Practical Magic 2
With the Owens sisters finally returning, here are seven major details about the sequel:
Bullock and Nicole Kidman are back. They reprise their roles as Sally and Gillian Owens and also serve as producers.
Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing return. The actresses are back as Aunt Jet and Aunt Frances.
The next generation plays a major role. Joey King stars as Kylie Owens, while Maisie Williams plays Antonia Owens.
The cast has several major additions. Lee Pace, Xolo Maridueña and Solly McLeod are among the new cast members.
Susanne Bier directs. Bier previously directed Bullock in Bird Box and worked with Kidman on The Undoing and The Perfect Couple.
Alice Hoffman’s books remain central. Warner Bros. says the sequel is based on Hoffman’s The Book of Magic, with a screenplay credited to Akiva Goldsman, Georgia Pritchett and Kelly Marcel.
The sequel arrives nearly 28 years later. Warner Bros. is releasing Practical Magic 2 internationally beginning September 9, with its North American theatrical release following this week.
Why Bullock Wanted to Return for Practical Magic 2
The sequel didn’t begin simply because Hollywood wanted to revive another familiar title.
According to Bullock, she found herself thinking about what another Practical Magic story could say now.
She contacted producer Denise Di Novi and suggested that a sequel would need to address Sally’s daughters while also engaging with what was happening in the world.
Di Novi pointed her toward Hoffman’s later writing about the Owens family.
That gave Bullock a narrative reason to return.
The official sequel now centers on the Owens family confronting a dark curse threatening another generation, bringing the franchise’s themes of family inheritance and generational patterns back to the forefront.
Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman Reunite Nearly 30 Years Later
The reunion also carries considerably more history than it would have a decade ago.
Both actresses have become major producers as well as performers since making the original movie.
Kidman and Bullock recently explained that their own life experiences helped make this the right moment to revisit Sally and Gillian. The sequel allowed them to explore the Owens family with perspectives shaped by nearly three additional decades of their own lives.
That makes Practical Magic 2 more than a straightforward nostalgia project.
The actresses are returning to characters they first played in their thirties while exploring what those women, and the generations after them, look like later in life.
The Sequel Brings the Owens Family Into a New Generation
The official synopsis says Sally and Gillian must confront a curse threatening to unravel their family.
This time, Sally’s daughters are no longer children.
Joey King plays Kylie Owens and Maisie Williams plays Antonia, allowing the sequel to examine the family’s magical inheritance through another generation.
The story also expands beyond the familiar Owens house, with the family traveling to the U.K. as the mystery develops.
For longtime fans, however, the major attraction remains seeing Bullock, Kidman, Wiest and Channing together again.
Practical Magic 2 Faces the Same Critical Challenge
There is an interesting parallel between the two films.
Early reviews for the sequel are once again divided.
Some critics have praised the reunion between Bullock and Kidman and the nostalgia surrounding the Owens family, while others argue that the sequel struggles to recreate the original’s distinctive charm.
That feels particularly relevant given Bullock’s comments about the first movie.
The original was hardly embraced by critics in 1998, yet its long-term cultural life ultimately depended on audiences rather than reviews.
Whether the sequel follows a similar path will become clearer once general audiences have had the chance to see it.
Why the Original Movie Still Matters to Its Stars
For Bullock, the transformation of Practical Magic from critically dismissed movie to generational favorite changed how she understood its impact.
The audience response demonstrated that a film’s opening reviews don’t necessarily determine its legacy.
That lesson is especially relevant for actors and filmmakers.
Projects can be misunderstood when they arrive. Audience tastes change. New generations discover older performances without the expectations surrounding their original release.
And sometimes the work that initially makes an artist question their choices becomes the work audiences ask them to revisit decades later.
In Bullock’s case, the movie she once worried she’d been wrong to make eventually became important enough to bring its original stars back together almost 30 years later.
What’s Next for Sandra Bullock?
Sandra Bullock has been increasingly selective about acting in recent years, making the decision to return as Sally Owens especially significant.
She recently explained that her children remain central to how she chooses projects. Bullock said she won’t accept work that prevents her children from being with her, and she structures filming around their schedules whenever possible.
With Practical Magic 2, she isn’t simply returning as its star.
Bullock is also producing alongside Kidman and Denise Di Novi, giving her a role in shaping the continuation of a film whose initial reception once made her doubt herself.
Almost three decades after those reviews, audiences are getting the clearest possible indication of how dramatically the movie’s reputation has changed:
Hollywood made another one.
Stay Updated on Entertainment News and Casting Opportunities
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Explore the latest casting calls and jobs, stay informed with entertainment news, and if you have any questions, visit or email.
FAQs
Why Did Sandra Bullock Feel Ashamed After Practical Magic?
Bullock said the harsh reviews made her feel as though she had “done something wrong.” The movie was poorly received by many critics when it premiered in 1998, despite later developing a passionate audience and cult following.
Is Sandra Bullock Returning for Practical Magic 2?
Yes. Bullock reprises her role as Sally Owens alongside Nicole Kidman as Gillian Owens. Both actresses are also producers on the sequel.
When Does Practical Magic 2 Come Out?
Warner Bros. is releasing Practical Magic 2 internationally beginning September 9, 2026, with its North American theatrical rollout following this week. The film is directed by Susanne Bier and reunites several members of the original cast.
Country music legend Dolly Parton nearly added a surprising credit to her acting résumé: a villainous role in a DC superhero movie.
Before Faye Dunaway portrayed Selena in the 1984 film Supergirl, Parton was considered for the magical antagonist opposite Helen Slater’s Supergirl.
The unexpected casting story has resurfaced decades later, offering fans a fascinating look at what could have been one of the most unusual superhero movie casting decisions of the 1980s.
Parton died on August 25, 2026, at age 80, leaving behind a remarkable legacy spanning music, film, television, business, and philanthropy.
Dolly Parton Was Considered for the Villain in ‘Supergirl’
According to a resurfaced 1982 interview, Parton revealed that she was discussing the possibility of playing a witch in the upcoming Supergirl movie.
The character was Selena, the primary villain who would eventually be played by Academy Award-winning actress Faye Dunaway.
Parton described the character as magical and funny, suggesting she was at least intrigued by the opportunity.
However, there was one major practical issue: the production would require her to spend several months filming in London.
Parton was already balancing a hugely successful music career with a growing list of movie roles, making such a lengthy commitment a significant decision.
Entertainment Weekly reported that Parton was ultimately offered approximately $7 million for the role before passing on the project.
Why Dolly Parton Turned Down ‘Supergirl’
Money apparently wasn’t enough to convince Parton.
In a later interview, the singer explained that she had reservations about playing a character she viewed as fundamentally evil.
Parton was surprised filmmakers had envisioned her as a villain and ultimately decided the character did not fit the type of screen roles she wanted to pursue.
That decision reflected Parton’s broader approach to acting.
Rather than attempting to completely disappear into characters far removed from her personality, Parton often gravitated toward roles that incorporated elements of her natural humor, warmth, confidence, and Southern identity.
Selena ultimately went to Faye Dunaway.
What Was Dolly Parton’s Acting Career Like?
Although Parton will always be best known as one of country music’s most influential artists, she also built an impressive acting career.
Her breakthrough movie role came in the 1980 workplace comedy 9 to 5, where she starred alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin.
Parton later appeared in movies including The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Rhinestone, Steel Magnolias, and Straight Talk.
Many of those characters played to qualities audiences already associated with Parton, including her comedic timing, Southern charm, and larger-than-life personality.
Playing a supernatural comic-book villain could have taken her film career in an entirely different direction.
Who Played Selena in ‘Supergirl’?
Faye Dunaway ultimately took on the role of Selena in Supergirl.
Released in 1984, the superhero movie starred Helen Slater as Kara Zor-El, Superman’s cousin.
The film followed Kara after she traveled to Earth and became Supergirl, eventually facing Selena, a powerful witch who gains access to a dangerous source of magical power.
The movie was an early attempt to expand the Superman franchise around another major DC character.
While Supergirl did not become the blockbuster franchise its filmmakers hoped for, the film developed a place in superhero movie history — and its casting could have looked very different with Parton as its central villain.
Dolly Parton’s Casting Story Shows How Different Movies Can Become
Hollywood is filled with famous examples of actors who nearly played iconic characters.
Casting directors, producers, studios, and filmmakers may consider multiple performers before a role is finalized. An actor can be approached, audition, negotiate an offer, or even express interest without ultimately appearing in the finished production.
Sometimes scheduling gets in the way. Other times an actor decides the character is not the right creative fit.
Parton’s Supergirl story appears to have involved both.
The London production schedule presented a challenge, while playing an overtly evil character did not align with the types of roles Parton wanted at that stage of her acting career.
For actors, it is another reminder that casting is rarely as straightforward as seeing a name in the final credits.
What Actors Can Learn From Dolly Parton’s Decision
Turning down a multimillion-dollar superhero role might seem unimaginable for many performers, but Parton’s decision illustrates an important career principle: not every opportunity is necessarily the right opportunity.
Actors often have to consider more than compensation or the visibility of a project.
A role can affect an actor’s public image, future casting opportunities, schedule, creative direction, and long-term career goals.
For emerging actors, the circumstances will obviously be different from those of an established superstar. Still, understanding what types of projects support your career goals can become increasingly important as opportunities grow.
At the same time, performers should remain open to unexpected casting possibilities.
After all, somewhere in an alternate version of Hollywood history, Dolly Parton could have been battling Supergirl on the big screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Dolly Parton supposed to be in ‘Supergirl’?
Dolly Parton was considered for the role of Selena in the 1984 movie Supergirl. She discussed the potential role publicly before ultimately deciding not to take it.
Who was Dolly Parton going to play in ‘Supergirl’?
Parton was considered to play Selena, a magical villain who serves as the movie’s main antagonist.
How much was Dolly Parton offered for ‘Supergirl’?
Parton later said she had been offered approximately $7 million to play the role that eventually went to Faye Dunaway.
Why did Dolly Parton turn down ‘Supergirl’?
Parton cited both the demands of spending months filming in London and her reluctance to portray an evil character. She generally preferred acting roles that reflected elements of her own personality.
Who played Selena in the 1984 ‘Supergirl’ movie?
Faye Dunaway ultimately played Selena opposite Helen Slater, who starred as Supergirl.
What movies did Dolly Parton act in?
Parton appeared in several notable movies, including 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Rhinestone, Steel Magnolias, and Straight Talk.
Who played Supergirl in the 1984 movie?
Helen Slater played Kara Zor-El, also known as Supergirl, in the 1984 film.
Where can actors find movie and TV casting calls?
Actors can discover film, television, commercial, modeling, and entertainment industry opportunities through Project Casting. Performers can also use Project Casting to follow industry news and learn more about navigating auditions and building an acting career.
AMC “Thunder Road”: Jake Manley Joins Dennis Quaid in Upcoming NASCAR Drama
AMC “Thunder Road” is expanding its cast as the upcoming NASCAR drama prepares to bring a multigenerational stock car racing dynasty to television.
Jake Manley, known for My Life with the Walter Boys and Midway, has joined the series regular cast of Thunder Road. He joins an ensemble led by Dennis Quaid alongside Chase Stokes, Michael Rooker, Matt Barr, Maggie Grace, and West Duchovny.
The new AMC series combines family drama, Southern culture, fierce rivalries, and the high-stakes world of stock car racing. With production moving forward and a 2027 premiere planned for AMC and AMC+, Thunder Road is shaping up to be a notable addition to AMC’s upcoming television lineup.
What Is AMC “Thunder Road” About?
Created by John Fusco, AMC “Thunder Road” follows the fictional Whitlock family, whose history is deeply connected to stock car racing and the Southern hill country where their racing legacy began.
The Whitlocks have built their reputation through generations of racing, with family roots stretching back to moonshine runs and dirt tracks.
But their racing dynasty is now under threat.
Competitors are determined to take their place, forcing the Whitlock family to fight for the empire they have spent generations building. At the center of that struggle is patriarch Duane Whitlock, a legendary racer unwilling to watch his family’s legacy disappear.
The series is being produced in association with NASCAR, giving Thunder Road a direct connection to the organization at the center of American stock car racing.
Dennis Quaid Leads AMC “Thunder Road”
Dennis Quaid stars as Duane Whitlock, better known as “The Wrecking Ball.”
Duane is a racing legend who transformed his family’s roots in moonshine runs and dirt-track racing into a powerful racing empire.
Now, that empire faces an uncertain future.
As rivals attempt to dethrone the Whitlocks, Duane is determined to protect everything his family has built. His fight to preserve the dynasty provides the foundation for the family conflict and racing rivalries expected to drive the series.
Jake Manley Joins the “Thunder Road” Cast
Jake Manley has joined AMC “Thunder Road” as series regular Zak Farley.
Zak comes from another hill country racing family and has been raised to continue the Farley racing dynasty. The Farleys are longtime rivals of the Whitlocks, immediately placing Zak on the opposite side of the show’s central family.
On the racetrack, Zak is an aggressive competitor willing to wreck another driver if doing so gives him an advantage.
His relationship with the Whitlocks, however, becomes considerably more complicated away from racing.
Who Is Zak Farley?
Zak Farley brings both rivalry and romance into the story.
Despite the longstanding tension between their families, Zak develops a connection with Cassie Whitlock, played by West Duchovny.
Cassie appears to bring out a side of Zak that his competitors rarely see. Their relationship could put both characters in danger as the Farley-Whitlock rivalry continues to unfold.
The storyline adds another layer to Thunder Road beyond its racing action, creating a conflict between family loyalty and personal relationships.
AMC “Thunder Road” Cast
The announced Thunder Road cast includes:
Dennis Quaid as Duane Whitlock
Jake Manley as Zak Farley
Chase Stokes
Michael Rooker
Matt Barr
Maggie Grace
West Duchovny as Cassie Whitlock
Michael Rooker and Devon Allman are also set to appear in recurring roles.
Additional characters and casting announcements may emerge as production progresses.
Who Is Jake Manley?
Jake Manley has built a growing résumé across television and film.
Audiences may recognize him from Netflix’s My Life with the Walter Boys, where he has appeared in a recurring role. His credits also include Midway, Pursuit, and Infamous.
Manley recently starred in Lionsgate’s Do Not Enter opposite Adeline Rudolph and appeared opposite Helena Howard in Find Your Friends.
He is also set to star in the horror film Casket Girls.
His role as Zak Farley gives Manley another significant television project and places him directly within one of Thunder Road’s central family rivalries.
Who Is Behind AMC “Thunder Road”?
John Fusco created Thunder Road and serves as an executive producer.
Taylor Elmore serves as showrunner and executive producer. The executive producing team also includes Cliff Roberts through Syndicate Entertainment, Mark L. Smith, and NASCAR Studios’ Tim Clark and John Dahl.
Gladys Cheng serves as producer.
The involvement of NASCAR Studios could help the series incorporate elements of racing culture into its fictional story about the Whitlock and Farley families.
Who Are the Casting Directors for AMC “Thunder Road”?
Casting is an important part of bringing the racing families, communities, and competitive atmosphere of AMC “Thunder Road” to the screen.
CL Casting is one of the casting directors working on Thunder Road. The casting company is involved in finding talent for the production and helping build the on-screen world surrounding the Whitlock family and its racing rivals.
A television production centered on stock car racing can require a wide range of performers to create believable racetracks, garages, crowds, celebrations, businesses, and Southern communities. Depending on production needs, casting opportunities may include background actors, featured performers, stand-ins, photo doubles, and talent with specialized skills.
Performers interested in Thunder Road should watch for official casting announcements as production progresses. Project Casting will continue highlighting relevant casting opportunities connected to the series when they become available.
AMC “Thunder Road” Casting Call for Clean Shaven Types
Clean-Shaven Male Background Actor for “Thunder Road” Season 1
Job Description
“Thunder Road” Season 1 is seeking a clean-shaven male background actor for filming in Senoia, Georgia. This paid TV casting opportunity is open to men of any ethnicity who can match the production’s requested look and are comfortable working as background talent on a professional television set.
Job Responsibilities
Appear as a background actor in scenes for “Thunder Road” Season 1.
Maintain a clean-shaven appearance for filming.
Follow instructions from the production and assistant directing teams.
Remain professional and attentive throughout the filming day.
Be prepared for a potentially extended production day.
Requirements
Male talent.
Open to all ethnicities.
Must be clean-shaven.
Must be available to work in Senoia, Georgia.
Comfortable working as a background performer on a television production.
Must be dependable and able to follow on-set direction.
AMC “Thunder Road” Season 1 Casting Call for Bar Regulars
Bar Regulars and Patrons for “Thunder Road” Season 1
Job Description
“Thunder Road” Season 1 is seeking men and women to portray bar regulars and patrons at an established local hometown bar. This background acting opportunity is looking for talent who can naturally create the atmosphere of a lived-in rural bar, portraying familiar faces and longtime customers. Some performers may be selected as recurring bar regulars and return throughout the series.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a local bar regular or patron in background scenes.
Create a natural and authentic hometown bar atmosphere.
Interact naturally with other background performers during filming.
Follow direction from the production team throughout each scene.
Return for additional filming if selected as a recurring bar regular.
Requirements
Men and women, ages 21 and older.
Open to a variety of ages and character types.
Must be comfortable portraying a bar patron or longtime local regular.
Must be able to work in Senoia, Georgia.
Must be available for single-day or potential multi-day bookings.
AMC “Thunder Road” Season 1 Casting Call for Automative Enthusiasts
Automotive Enthusiasts for “Thunder Road”
Job Description
“Thunder Road” is seeking men and women with hands-on automotive experience, mechanic skills, or a genuine passion for working on cars. This recurring background acting opportunity is ideal for mechanics, automotive enthusiasts, car experts, and knowledgeable car lovers who can bring authenticity and personality to automotive-focused scenes. Selected talent may have opportunities to return for multiple episodes throughout the production.
Job Responsibilities
Portray an automotive enthusiast or experienced car professional in background scenes.
Bring authentic knowledge and familiarity with cars to the role.
Perform naturally around vehicles and automotive environments.
Follow direction from the production team during filming.
Maintain availability for potential recurring appearances throughout the project.
Requirements
Open to men and women.
Must have mechanic experience, hands-on automotive experience, or strong knowledge of cars.
Genuine automotive enthusiasts and car experts are encouraged to apply.
Must be comfortable working around vehicles on set.
Featured Female Race Reporter and Press Reporters for “Thunder Road” Season 1
Job Description
“Thunder Road” Season 1 is seeking talent for featured reporter and press roles filming in Senoia, Georgia. The production is casting a featured female race reporter to portray an on-camera track reporter, along with men and women to portray members of the press, including news crews, reporters, journalists, and photographers.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a professional race reporter, journalist, photographer, or news crew member.
Perform naturally in trackside, press, and media-related scenes.
Follow direction from the production team throughout filming.
Maintain professional and believable background or featured character behavior on camera.
Requirements
Featured Female Race Reporter: Female talent, ages 20–40s.
Press Reporters: Male and female talent, age 18 and older.
Press roles are open to all ethnicities.
Comfortable portraying reporters, journalists, photographers, or news crew members.
AMC plans to premiere Thunder Road on AMC and AMC+ in 2027.
Production is expected to move forward ahead of the show’s debut, with additional information about the series likely to emerge as filming progresses.
An exact premiere date has not yet been announced.
Why AMC “Thunder Road” Could Be One to Watch
Thunder Road combines several elements that could make the series particularly interesting for television audiences: professional racing, multigenerational family conflict, romance, rival dynasties, and Southern history.
Rather than focusing exclusively on what happens behind the wheel, the series appears positioned to explore what racing means to families whose identities and livelihoods have been built around it.
Dennis Quaid’s Duane Whitlock represents the older generation fighting to preserve that legacy, while characters such as Zak Farley and Cassie Whitlock bring a younger generation into the rivalry.
That combination gives AMC “Thunder Road” an opportunity to tell both a high-stakes sports story and a sprawling family drama.
Find AMC “Thunder Road” Casting Calls on Project Casting
As Thunder Road moves through production, performers and entertainment professionals can follow Project Casting for potential casting calls, acting opportunities, background roles, and production jobs connected to the series.
Project Casting helps actors, models, content creators, crew members, and other entertainment professionals discover opportunities across television, film, commercials, and digital productions.
Whether you are looking for your next acting role or want to stay informed about major projects currently in production, Project Casting makes it easier to discover opportunities across the entertainment industry.
Apply now on Project Casting and discover your next entertainment opportunity.
Chicago Fire Season 14 Renewed: New Faces, Cast Exits, and What to Expect
NBC’s high-octane drama Chicago Fire is officially coming back for Season 14. While the brave first responders of Firehouse 51 will continue to save lives in the Windy City, fans should brace for big cast shake-ups and behind-the-scenes changes.
NBC Renews Chicago Fire for 2025-26 Season
Orlando, Florida, USA-July 16, 2019: Golden sign of NBC which is an American English-language commercial television network that is a flagship property of NBCUniversal – Image (Editorial credit: BobNoah / Shutterstock.com)
Chicago Fire has been renewed by NBC for the 2025–26 TV season. The long-running hit will return for its 14th season following the conclusion of its 13th season, which wrapped on May 21. The series remains a flagship of NBC’s One Chicago universe, which also includes Chicago Med and Chicago PD.
The show continues to follow the intense and emotional lives of the firefighters, paramedics, and rescue squad at Firehouse 51, with stars like Taylor Kinney (Lt. Severide), David Eigenberg, Christian Stolte, and Miranda Rae Mayo returning to lead the ensemble.
Ratings Dip, But Firehouse 51 Stays Strong
Despite a noticeable drop in viewership, Chicago Fire remains a top-performing scripted series for NBC. Season 13 averaged a 0.39 rating in the 18–49 demographic and drew in 5.72 million viewers, including DVR playback—down 21% in the demo and 9% in total viewers compared to Season 12.
Still, its strong Wednesday night performance secures its place as NBC’s second-highest-rated scripted show.
Budget Cuts Bring Cast Changes and Fewer Episodes
In a bid to tighten production costs, NBC is implementing changes that will affect the cast and episode structure of Season 14:
Some main cast members will skip 2–4 episodes.
Actors who don’t establish Illinois residency may be featured in fewer episodes due to the show’s Chicago filming base.
Annual salary raises (typically 5%) are being frozen for select cast members.
Some characters may be written off entirely.
These adjustments are part of a broader cost-reduction strategy across network TV.
Two Fan Favorites Exit the Series
With change comes loss. Chicago Fire fans will be saying goodbye to two beloved characters:
Daniel Kyri, who portrayed Darren Ritter for seven seasons.
Jake Lockett, who played Sam Carver for three seasons.
NBC has not confirmed whether these exits will occur on-screen or be handled off-camera.
Brandon Larracuente Joins Cast in Mysterious New Role
To fill the gap left by Ritter and Carver, Chicago Fire is bringing in fresh talent. Brandon Larracuente has been cast as a new series regular for Season 14. Although character details remain under wraps, it’s highly likely he’ll be stepping in as a new firefighter at Firehouse 51.
Larracuente is no stranger to the Wolf Entertainment family, having starred in the Prime Video series On Call. His casting hints at a seamless integration into the One Chicago world.
Fans are especially curious to see if his character will represent the LGBTQ+ community, following the departure of the franchise’s only regular LGBTQ+ character (Ritter).
When Will Chicago Fire Season 14 Premiere?
NBC has yet to announce a specific premiere date, but Chicago Fire Season 14 is expected to debut in Fall 2025. Filming begins in July, so fans should anticipate first-look images and teasers in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned for updates on casting news, plot developments, and behind-the-scenes changes as the series gears up for another action-packed season.
Who Is Casting Chicago Fire Season 14?
Casting for Chicago Fire Season 14 is in the capable hands of Chicago Fire Extras, a reputable casting team that specializes in non-speaking background roles and stand-ins for the NBC drama. They are instrumental in finding local talent to represent the city of Chicago on-screen authentically.
The extras casting is directed by Joan Philo, a veteran casting director with decades of experience in Chicago television and film. Her team is known for maintaining a high standard of professionalism and accuracy when matching talent to production needs.
Joan Philo and the Chicago Fire Extras team have contributed to the realism and diversity of the show, casting real Chicago locals in essential behind-the-scenes roles that help bring Firehouse 51 to life.
Apply for Chicago Fire Season 14 Casting Calls on Project Casting
Want to join the ranks of Firehouse 51? NBC is currently casting stand-ins for Chicago Fire Season 14. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to gain more on-set experience, this is a great opportunity to work behind the scenes of a hit drama series.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for SI Javi
SI Javi Stand-In for “Chicago Fire”
Job Description
“Chicago Fire” is seeking a stand-in to match the appearance of the SI Javi character for upcoming production work in Chicago. This paid, non-speaking stand-in opportunity requires talent who can closely match the actor’s general height, build, complexion, and hair while assisting the lighting and camera teams during scene preparation.
Job Responsibilities
Work as a stand-in for principal talent on “Chicago Fire.”
Stand in place of the actor during lighting and camera blocking.
Match assigned positions and movements as directed by the production team.
Work closely with the camera, lighting, and assistant directing departments.
Remain professional and prepared throughout an extended production day.
Requirements
Latino talent.
Ages 18–30.
Height between 5’8″ and 5’10”.
Weight between 130–160 lbs.
Dark hair.
Must be local to Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or nearby Illinois border states.
Stand-in or background acting experience is a plus.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for SI Archer
SI Archer Stand-In for “Chicago Fire”
Job Description
“Chicago Fire” is seeking a male stand-in to match the appearance of the SI Archer character for production in Chicago. The selected performer will assist with lighting and camera blocking by standing in for principal talent between takes and during scene preparation.
Job Responsibilities
Serve as a stand-in for principal talent on “Chicago Fire.”
Assist the camera and lighting departments during scene setup.
Follow blocking, positioning, and movement instructions.
Maintain consistency throughout lighting and camera rehearsals.
Remain available and professional during the full production day.
Requirements
Caucasian male.
Ages 40s–60s.
Height between 6’0″ and 6’2″.
Slim to medium build.
Grey hair.
Must be local to Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or nearby Illinois border states.
Stand-in or background acting experience is a plus.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for SI Otis
SI Otis Stand-In for “Chicago Fire”
Job Description
“Chicago Fire” is seeking a stand-in to match the appearance of the SI Otis character for upcoming production work in Chicago. This paid stand-in role involves assisting the production team with lighting and camera blocking while closely matching the general physical appearance of principal talent.
Job Responsibilities
Work as a stand-in for principal talent during production.
Assist with lighting, camera setup, and scene blocking.
Follow positioning and movement instructions from the crew.
Maintain consistency during rehearsals and technical preparation.
Remain professional and attentive throughout filming.
Requirements
Caucasian or Latino talent.
Height between 5’5″ and 5’9″.
Slim to medium build.
Dark hair.
Must be local to Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or nearby Illinois border states.
Stand-in or background acting experience is a plus.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Bartender
Experienced Male Bartender for “Chicago Fire”
Job Description
“Chicago Fire” is seeking an experienced male bartender for a non-speaking background role in Molly’s Bar scenes. This paid TV casting opportunity is open to men of all ethnicities who have real bartending experience and can confidently perform authentic bar service actions on camera. Talent must be local to Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or nearby Illinois border states.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a bartender in Molly’s Bar scenes on “Chicago Fire.”
Perform realistic bartending and bar service actions on camera.
Handle typical bartender duties naturally during background scenes.
Follow direction from the production and assistant directing teams.
Maintain continuity and professionalism throughout filming.
Requirements
Male talent.
Ages 20s–50s.
Open to all ethnicities.
Must have real bartending experience.
Must be comfortable performing a non-speaking background role.
Must be local to Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or nearby Illinois border states.
Must not have recently worked on the production or already be booked for an upcoming episode.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Casting Call for Boy Photo Double
TV Production Casting Call – Boy Photo Double
Job Description
A television production filming in the Chicago area is seeking a Caucasian boy to work as a paid photo double. The selected child will match a principal actor in general build, complexion, and hair color and may appear in wide shots or insert shots in place of the actor. This is a non-speaking role that includes on-set schooling during each workday.
Job Responsibilities
Work as a photo double for a principal actor
Appear in wide shots and insert shots as needed
Match the positioning and movements required for the scene
Participate in rehearsal and filming as directed
Follow instructions from the production team
Attend required on-set schooling
Requirements
Caucasian boy
Ages 7–8
Approximately 4’2″–4’4″ tall
Approximately 50–55 lbs.
Blonde or light brown curly hair
Must reasonably match the principal actor’s build, complexion, and hair
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or nearby border states
Parent or guardian must be available to accompany the child as required
A television production is seeking a Caucasian male stand-in to work in Chicago, Illinois. The ideal candidate should closely match the actor’s general hair color, weight, and complexion to assist the production team with lighting and camera blocking. This opportunity is open to experienced stand-ins as well as talent interested in gaining professional stand-in experience. Local talent from Chicago, surrounding suburbs, and nearby border states is encouraged.
Job Responsibilities
Work as a stand-in for a principal actor during production
Assist the camera and lighting departments with blocking and setup
Follow positioning and movement instructions from the production team
Maintain consistency throughout lighting and camera rehearsals
Remain professional, punctual, and attentive while on set
Requirements
Caucasian male
Ages 50s–60s
Height between 5’11” and 6’1″
Weight between 175–200 lbs
Must reasonably match the actor’s hair color, complexion, and overall appearance
Previous stand-in or extra experience is a plus
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or nearby border states
Reliable and comfortable working closely with the camera and lighting departments
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Military Experience Actors
Military Experienced Actors for “Chicago Fire”
Job Description
“Chicago Fire” is seeking men and women with real military experience for paid, non-speaking background roles in an upcoming exterior scene filming in the Chicago area. This opportunity is looking for authentic military professionals and veterans who can bring their real-world experience, discipline, and presence to the production.
Job Responsibilities
Work as a non-speaking background actor on “Chicago Fire.”
Use real-world military experience to bring authenticity to the scene.
Perform natural background actions as directed by the production team.
Follow on-set instructions and maintain continuity between takes.
Remain professional and prepared throughout an extended filming day.
Requirements
Men and women with real military experience.
Ages 20s–60s.
Open to all ethnicities.
Male talent must be clean-shaven with short hair in accordance with the requested look.
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or nearby states bordering Illinois.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Child Photo Double
Latina Child Photo Double for “Chicago Fire”
Job Description
“Chicago Fire” is seeking a young Latina or mixed-heritage girl to work as a photo double for a child actor. The selected performer will appear in insert shots and wide shots in place of the principal child actor. No previous film set experience is required, and the role involves simple on-camera actions such as sitting, standing, or walking within a scene.
Job Responsibilities
Work as a photo double for a child actor on “Chicago Fire.”
Appear in insert shots, wide shots, and other scenes as needed.
Perform simple actions such as sitting, standing, and walking.
Match the principal child actor’s appearance as closely as possible.
Follow age-appropriate direction from the production team.
Requirements
Latina or mixed-heritage girl.
Age 9 or 10.
Must closely match the child actor’s height, weight, and complexion.
No previous acting or film set experience required.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Blonde Actresses
Blonde Female Stand-In for TV Series
Job Description
A television production is seeking a Caucasian female stand-in with blonde hair to work in the Chicago area. The selected performer will stand in for a principal actor while the lighting and camera departments prepare shots and technical setups. This is a non-speaking role requiring talent who closely matches the actor’s physical characteristics and can maintain consistent positioning throughout production.
Job Responsibilities
Work as a stand-in for a principal actor during camera and lighting setups.
Maintain accurate marks and positioning between production setups.
Follow instructions from the camera, lighting, and production teams.
Match the principal actor’s positioning for technical rehearsals.
Remain professional, attentive, and consistent throughout long filming days.
Requirements
Caucasian female, ages 20s–40s.
Blonde hair.
Height between 5’8″ and 5’10”.
Weight between 125–150 lbs.
Must closely match the principal actor’s height, weight, and complexion.
Previous stand-in or professional on-set experience is preferred.
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or neighboring states bordering Illinois.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Casting Call for Correctional Officers
Correctional Officer Background Actors
Job Description
A television production is seeking men and women to portray correctional officers in upcoming prison scenes filming in the Chicago area. Casting directors are looking for performers who can authentically portray professional correctional officers and authority figures. Talent must be local to Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or nearby states bordering Illinois.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a correctional officer in prison scenes for a television production.
Perform naturally as an authority figure within a correctional facility setting.
Follow direction from the production and assistant directing teams.
Maintain professional behavior and continuity throughout filming.
Participate in a wardrobe fitting as required by production.
Requirements
Men and women, ages 20s–60s.
Open to all ethnicities.
Male talent must be clean-shaven with short hair.
Must be able to authentically portray a correctional officer.
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or neighboring states bordering Illinois.
Must be comfortable working in prison-themed scenes.
Must be professional, reliable, and able to follow on-set direction.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Mugshot Photo
Chicago Fire – Featured Palmer Still Photo Shoot
Job Description
A popular Chicago television drama is seeking men for a featured still photo shoot portraying a character named Palmer. This paid casting opportunity is looking for talent who can deliver a natural, authentic look for photos that will be presented to the production director.
Job Responsibilities
• Participate in a featured still photo shoot for a television production • Portray the Palmer character as directed by the production team • Follow posing and creative direction during the photo session • Maintain a professional appearance and attitude throughout the shoot • Be available for the required fitting and photo shoot
Requirements
• Male talent, ages 40s–50s • Open to all ethnicities • Must be local to Chicago, the suburbs, or surrounding states bordering Illinois • Comfortable participating in a professional still photo shoot • Must be available for the fitting and photo shoot
Compensation
• $165 for 8 hours • Time and a half after 8 hours
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Casting Call for Featured Firefighter
“Chicago Fire” – Featured Firefighter Background Actor
Job Description
“Chicago Fire” is seeking a Latino male actor for a featured, non-speaking firefighter role filming in the Chicago area. The production is looking for talent with a clean-cut, professional appearance who can convincingly portray a firefighter and work comfortably in a featured background capacity.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a firefighter in a featured non-speaking role
Maintain a professional and authentic firefighter presence on camera
Follow blocking and direction from the production team
Attend a wardrobe fitting prior to filming
Maintain character and continuity throughout multiple takes
Work professionally alongside principal cast, crew, and background performers
Requirements
Latino male talent
Ages 30–49
Must be clean-shaven
Must have short hair
Must be able to convincingly portray a professional firefighter
Must be available for a wardrobe fitting
Must be a local hire in Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or eligible nearby areas
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Black Cars
Chicago TV Extras With Cars
Job Description
A Chicago television production is seeking local background actors with vehicles for an upcoming shoot. Talent ages 18–70 of all ethnicities are encouraged to apply. Black cars are acceptable. This opportunity is open to performers in Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, and nearby states bordering Illinois. An early call time may be required.
Job Responsibilities
Work as a background extra during a television production in Chicago.
Bring your approved vehicle to the filming location.
Follow directions from the production team throughout the shoot.
Be prepared for an early morning call time and approximately eight hours of filming.
Requirements
Ages 18–70.
All ethnicities are welcome.
Must be local to Chicago, the suburbs, or surrounding states bordering Illinois.
Must have a vehicle available for filming.
Black vehicles are acceptable.
Must be available for the full production schedule.
Compensation
$136.40 for 8 hours, with time-and-a-half after 8 hours.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Livecast
Chicago Fire – Female Livecast Body Model
Job Description
“Chicago Fire” is seeking a female livecast model for a specialized full-body molding session in Chicago. The selected model will have a skin-safe mixture and plaster bandage applied to the body to create a lifecast, with the head and body casts completed separately. This role requires someone who can remain comfortable and still throughout the molding process.
Job Responsibilities
Serve as a livecast model for a professional television production.
Participate in separate head and full-body casting sessions.
Remain still while skin-safe molding materials and plaster bandages are applied.
Follow instructions from the makeup, effects, and production teams.
Remain available for most of the day as required.
Requirements
Female talent in her 20s.
Height approximately 5’3″–5’8″.
Thin to medium build.
Must be comfortable with a full-body lifecasting process.
Must not be claustrophobic.
Must be able to work as a local hire in Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or states bordering Illinois.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for New Techs
Chicago Fire – Hospital Background Actors
Job Description
“Chicago Fire” is seeking male background actors to portray hospital staff and hospital visitors in upcoming scenes filming in Chicago. Casting is open to men in their 20s–40s of all ethnicities who can bring a natural, professional presence to a busy hospital setting. Talent must be local to Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or nearby states bordering Illinois.
Job Responsibilities
Portray hospital staff, visitors, or other hospital background roles.
Perform natural background action during scripted television scenes.
Follow direction from assistant directors and the production team.
Maintain continuity and professionalism throughout filming.
Help create a realistic hospital environment for the TV production.
Requirements
Male talent in their 20s–40s.
All ethnicities are encouraged to apply.
No visible arm or hand tattoos.
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or states bordering Illinois.
Comfortable working as background talent in hospital scenes.
Reliable and able to follow on-set direction.
Compensation
Compensation will be discussed with selected talent.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Teddy Stand-In
Chicago TV Series – Male Stand-In
Job Description
A Chicago television production is casting a male stand-in to assist with lighting, camera blocking, and scene preparation. The production is seeking a performer who closely matches the actor’s height, weight, hair, and overall appearance. This is a non-speaking stand-in role, and previous stand-in or background acting experience is helpful but not required.
Job Responsibilities
Stand in for an actor during lighting and camera setups
Assist the crew with camera blocking and scene preparation
Maintain consistent marks, positioning, and movements
Follow direction from the camera, lighting, and production teams
Remain attentive and professional throughout the production day
Requirements
Caucasian male
Ages 20s to 40s
Height between 5’11” and 6’1″
Weight between 200 and 250 lbs.
Brown hair
Facial hair is acceptable
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or states bordering Illinois
Previous stand-in or background acting experience is helpful but not required
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Firefighters
Chicago Fire – Firefighter Background Actors
Job Description
Chicago Fire is casting male background actors to portray firefighters in scenes filming in the Chicago area. The production is seeking clean-shaven men with short hair who can convincingly portray professional firefighters. No real firefighting experience is required. This television background acting opportunity is open to local talent who can remain available for an extended filming day.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a firefighter in scenes for Chicago Fire
Perform realistic background actions appropriate for emergency response scenes
Follow direction from assistant directors and the production team
Maintain consistent positioning and continuity between takes
Remain professional and attentive throughout filming
Requirements
Male talent ages 20s to 50s
Clean-shaven appearance
Short hair
No professional firefighting experience required
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or states bordering Illinois
Must be comfortable with an extended filming day, potentially until 10 PM
Reliable and able to follow on-set direction
Compensation
Compensation details will be provided by the production
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Chief T Stand-In
TV Series – Fire Chief Stand-In
Job Description
A television production filming in the Chicago area is seeking a male stand-in to match an actor portraying a fire chief. This non-speaking stand-in role involves helping the production team establish lighting, camera blocking, and scene setups before filming. The opportunity is open to experienced stand-ins as well as talent interested in gaining professional on-set experience.
Job Responsibilities
Stand in for an actor during lighting and camera setups
Assist the crew with camera blocking and scene preparation
Match assigned positions and movements as directed
Follow instructions from the production and camera teams
Remain available and attentive throughout the filming day
Requirements
Caucasian male in his 40s to 60s
Height between 5’11” and 6’1″
Medium-to-large build
Light brown or reddish hair
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or neighboring states bordering Illinois
Previous stand-in or extra experience is helpful but not required
Must be comfortable working until approximately 10 PM
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Michael Stand-In
TV Series – Male Stand-In
Job Description
A television production filming in the Chicago area is casting a male stand-in to assist with lighting, camera blocking, and scene preparation. The production is seeking talent who closely matches the actor’s physical characteristics and can maintain consistent positioning throughout the shoot. This is a non-speaking stand-in opportunity for local talent, with previous extra or stand-in experience welcomed but not required.
Job Responsibilities
Stand in for an actor during lighting and camera setups
Assist the production crew with camera blocking and scene preparation
Maintain consistent marks, positions, and movements between setups
Follow direction from the camera and production teams
Remain attentive and professional throughout each production day
Requirements
Caucasian male
Ages 20s to 40s
Dark hair
Height between 6’0″ and 6’3″
Weight between 230 and 275 lbs.
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or states bordering Illinois
Previous stand-in or background acting experience is helpful but not required
Must be available for multiple production days
Must be comfortable working until approximately 8 PM
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Casting Call for Molly’s Bar Bartender
Featured Extra Bartender for TV Series
Job Description
A featured extra casting opportunity is now available for experienced bartenders to appear in a non-speaking role for a television series filming in the Chicago area. Casting directors are looking for men and women, ages 30 to 50, of all ethnicities, who can authentically portray a real bartender in a featured scene. Selected talent may also be invited for a wardrobe fitting before filming.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a featured bartender in a non-speaking television scene.
Perform realistic bartending duties during filming.
Follow on-set direction from the production team.
Attend a wardrobe fitting if selected.
Requirements
Men and women, ages 30–50.
Open to all ethnicities.
Must have real bartending experience.
Must be available for evening filming that may extend into late-night hours.
Must be local to Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or nearby Illinois border states.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Twin Newborn Babies
Twin Newborn Babies for TV Series
Job Description
A television series is seeking Caucasian or Latino twin newborns for featured scenes in an upcoming episode filming in the Chicago area. This paid opportunity is open to both twin boys and twin girls weighing 10 pounds or less. Production provides an experienced baby nurse on set and maintains a safe, supportive environment for newborn performers.
Job Responsibilities
Appear as twin newborns in television scenes.
Participate in a professionally supervised production environment.
Work with a parent or legal guardian throughout filming.
Follow production scheduling for newborn performers.
Requirements
Caucasian or Latino twin newborns.
Twin boys or twin girls.
Must weigh 10 pounds or less.
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or bordering states eligible to work in Illinois.
Must obtain the required Illinois work permit for newborn performers.
Parent or legal guardian must be available throughout production.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Latino Male Photo Double
Clean-Shaven Latino Male Photo Double for TV Series
Job Description
A television production is seeking a clean-shaven Latino male photo double for a paid filming opportunity in the Chicago area. This photo double casting call is open to local talent who closely matches the required physical characteristics and can portray the featured actor for wide shots and insert scenes.
Job Responsibilities
Serve as a photo double for a television production.
Match the featured actor’s appearance for wide shots and insert scenes.
Follow on-set direction from the production team.
Be available for a full filming day.
Requirements
Latino male.
Height between 5’11” and 6’1″.
Slender to medium build.
Dark hair.
Appears to be in their 20s to 40s.
Must be clean-shaven or willing to shave.
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or nearby Illinois border states.
Previous photo double, stand-in, or background acting experience is a plus.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Caucasian Male Stand-Ins
Caucasian Male Stand-In
Job Description
A paid stand-in opportunity is available for an upcoming television production filming in the Chicago area. Casting directors are seeking a Caucasian male with a similar build and appearance to the principal actor to work as a stand-in during rehearsals and lighting setups. This role is open to local talent from Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, and neighboring border states who can work as local hires in Illinois.
Job Responsibilities
Serve as a stand-in for the principal actor during lighting and camera setups.
Follow instructions from the production and camera departments.
Maintain consistency with the actor’s positioning throughout rehearsals.
Be available for the full production day.
Requirements
Caucasian male.
Height between 5’5″ and 5’7″.
Weight between 135 and 165 lbs.
Dark hair.
Ages 40s–50s.
Must closely match the actor’s height, weight, and complexion.
Previous stand-in or background acting experience is a plus.
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or neighboring border states able to work as a local hire in Illinois.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for SI D
SI D Stand-In for TV Series
Job Description
A paid stand-in casting opportunity is available for SI D in a television series filming in the Chicago area. Production is seeking a Caucasian male with a matching build to work as a stand-in during the first portion of the filming schedule. This is a great opportunity for experienced or aspiring stand-ins looking to work on a major television production.
Job Responsibilities
Serve as a stand-in for lighting, rehearsals, and camera blocking.
Follow direction from the production team.
Maintain continuity throughout filming.
Be available for scheduled production days.
Work extended filming days when needed.
Requirements
Caucasian male, ages 20s to early 40s.
Height between 6’2″ and 6’4″.
Weight between 175–220 lbs.
Dark hair.
Local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or neighboring states bordering Illinois.
Available for approximately the first three months of filming.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for SI B
SI B Stand-In for TV Series
Job Description
A paid stand-in casting opportunity is available for SI B in a television series filming in the Chicago area. Production is seeking an African American male with a matching build to serve as a stand-in throughout the season. This is an excellent opportunity for performers interested in gaining consistent on-set experience in a professional television production.
Job Responsibilities
Serve as a stand-in during lighting, camera blocking, and rehearsals.
Follow direction from the assistant directors and camera crew.
Maintain continuity and professionalism on set.
Be available for the full production schedule.
Work extended filming days as required.
Requirements
African American male, ages 20s–40s.
Height between 6’1″ and 6’3″.
Weight between 175–195 lbs.
Dark hair.
Local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or neighboring states bordering Illinois.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for High Ranking Firefighter
Featured Firefighter Background Actor for TV Series
Job Description
A television production is seeking a featured non-speaking background actor to portray a high-ranking firefighter in an upcoming episode filming in the Chicago area. This paid acting opportunity is open to local talent from Chicago, surrounding suburbs, and nearby border states. Selected performers will participate in a wardrobe fitting and may be fitted with prosthetics to accurately portray the role.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a featured high-ranking firefighter in a television production.
Follow on-set direction from the production team.
Attend a required wardrobe fitting before filming.
Maintain professionalism throughout filming.
Requirements
Male talent.
Ages 40s to early 60s.
Bigger build with a professional firefighter appearance.
All ethnicities are encouraged to apply.
Must be available for both the wardrobe fitting and filming.
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or nearby border states.
Compensation
Featured role: $165 for 8 hours, with time and a half after 8 hours.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for SI V (Male)
Chicago Fire Stand-In Casting Call – Role SI V (Male)
Job Description
A paid television stand-in opportunity is available for Chicago Fire filming in Chicago, Illinois. Production is seeking a male performer for Stand-In Role SI V. The selected talent will assist with camera rehearsals, lighting, and scene blocking while matching the principal actor’s appearance and build.
Job Responsibilities
Work as Stand-In Role SI V during filming and rehearsals.
Match the principal actor’s camera marks and movements.
Follow direction from the production, camera, and lighting teams.
Maintain dependable availability throughout the production season.
Requirements
Caucasian or Latino male.
Ages 20s–30s.
Height: 5’10″–6’0″.
Weight: 160–180 pounds.
Dark hair.
Must be available Monday through Friday, with occasional night and Saturday shoots.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for SI S
Chicago Fire Stand-In Casting Call – Role SI S
Job Description
A paid stand-in role is available for Chicago Fire filming in Chicago, Illinois. Production is seeking a male performer for Stand-In Role SI S. The selected stand-in will support the camera and lighting departments by matching the principal actor during scene rehearsals and technical preparation.
Job Responsibilities
Work as Stand-In Role SI S during production rehearsals.
Match the principal actor’s placement and movements.
Assist with lighting, camera blocking, and technical setups.
Maintain consistent availability throughout the production season.
Requirements
Caucasian male.
Ages 30s–40s.
Height: 5’10″–6’0″.
Weight: 160–180 pounds.
Greyish hair.
Must be available Monday through Friday, with occasional night and Saturday shoots.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for SI N
Chicago Fire Stand-In Casting Call – Role SI N
Job Description
A paid stand-in casting opportunity is available for Chicago Fire filming in Chicago, Illinois. Production is seeking a female performer for Stand-In Role SI N. This television stand-in will assist with rehearsals, lighting, and camera preparation while closely matching the principal actor.
Job Responsibilities
Perform as Stand-In Role SI N during camera and lighting rehearsals.
Match the principal actor’s marks, movement, and positioning.
Follow on-set instructions from the production team.
Remain dependable throughout the television production season.
Requirements
Caucasian female.
Ages 18 to early 30s.
Height: 5’5″–5’7″.
Weight: 115–135 pounds.
Blonde hair.
Must be available Monday through Friday, with occasional night and Saturday shoots.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for SI K
Chicago Fire Stand-In Casting Call – Role SI K
Job Description
A paid stand-in role is available for Chicago Fire filming in Chicago, Illinois. Production is seeking a Latina performer for Stand-In Role SI K. The selected performer will support rehearsals, lighting setups, and camera blocking by matching the principal actor’s physical characteristics.
Job Responsibilities
Serve as Stand-In Role SI K during rehearsals and technical setups.
Match the principal actor’s movements and on-set positioning.
Follow instructions from the production and camera teams.
Maintain professional and reliable availability throughout filming.
Requirements
Latina female.
Ages 18 to early 40s.
Height: 5’6″–5’8″.
Weight: 140–150 pounds.
Dark hair.
Must be available Monday through Friday, with occasional night and Saturday shoots.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for SI H
Chicago Fire Stand-In Casting Call – Role SI H
Job Description
A paid stand-in casting opportunity is available for Chicago Fire filming in Chicago, Illinois. Production is seeking a male performer for Stand-In Role SI H. The selected talent will assist with lighting, camera setup, rehearsals, and scene blocking while matching the principal actor’s physical appearance.
Job Responsibilities
Work as Stand-In Role SI H during television production.
Match the principal actor’s marks, positioning, and movements.
Assist the camera and lighting departments during rehearsals.
Maintain dependable availability throughout the production season.
Requirements
Caucasian male.
Ages 50s–60s.
Height: 5’6″–5’8″.
Weight: 135–160 pounds.
Grey hair.
Must be available Monday through Friday, with occasional night and Saturday shoots.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for SI V
Chicago Fire Stand-In Casting Call – Role SI V (Female)
Job Description
A paid stand-in casting opportunity is available for Chicago Fire filming in Chicago, Illinois. Production is seeking a female performer for Stand-In Role SI V. The selected stand-in will match the principal actor’s height, build, complexion, and hair while assisting with lighting, camera blocking, and rehearsals throughout the television production.
Job Responsibilities
Work as Stand-In Role SI V during lighting and camera rehearsals.
Match the principal actor’s position, movement, and blocking.
Follow direction from the assistant directors and camera crew.
Maintain reliable weekday availability throughout the production season.
Requirements
Female, ages 18 to early 40s.
Asian, Latino, or Caucasian.
Height: 5’8″–5’10”.
Weight: 115–140 pounds.
Dark hair.
Must be available Monday through Friday, with occasional night and Saturday shoots.
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 15 Casting Call for Firefighters
Chicago Fire Featured Extra Casting Call – High-Ranking Firefighter
Job Description
A paid featured extra opportunity is available for NBC’s Chicago Fire, filming in Chicago, Illinois. Production is seeking men to portray high-ranking firefighters in non-speaking featured roles. This is an excellent opportunity for performers with a strong, authoritative appearance to work on a popular television series.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a high-ranking firefighter in featured background scenes.
Follow direction from the production team.
Attend wardrobe and prosthetic fittings if required.
Maintain continuity throughout filming.
Requirements
Male.
Ages 40s to early 60s.
Bigger build with a fit appearance.
All ethnicities welcome.
Must be able to work as a local hire in the Chicago area.
Compensation
Featured Extra Rate: $165 for 8 hours (overtime after 8 hours where applicable)
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Casting Call for Military Style Types
Fit, Clean-Shaven Men with Military-Style Haircuts for FBI Scene
Job Description Chicago Fire Extras is casting bigger, fit men with short hair styled in a military cut for an upcoming FBI scene filming in the Chicago area. This role requires a strong, authoritative presence and a clean-shaven, disciplined look suitable for a federal law enforcement setting.
Filming will take place on Saturday, February 28. Selected talent must also attend a required wardrobe fitting on either Thursday, February 26 or Friday, February 27.
This casting is open to local hires in Chicago, surrounding suburbs, and bordering states to Illinois only.
Job Responsibilities
Portray FBI or law enforcement personnel
Attend a required wardrobe fitting
Follow direction from production staff
Maintain a military-style haircut and clean-shaven appearance
Requirements
Male
20s–60s
Bigger, fit build
Clean-shaven
Short hair in a military-style cut
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or bordering IL states
Job Description Chicago Fire Extras is casting fit, clean-shaven men with short hair for an FBI scene filming in the Chicago area. This background opportunity is for a professional, law enforcement-style scene and requires a sharp, well-groomed appearance.
Filming is scheduled for Saturday, February 28. Talent must also be available for a wardrobe fitting on either Thursday, February 26 or Friday, February 27.
This casting is open to local hires in Chicago, surrounding suburbs, and bordering states to Illinois only.
Job Responsibilities
Portray FBI personnel in a filmed scene
Attend a required wardrobe fitting
Follow on-set direction from assistant directors
Maintain a professional, clean-cut appearance
Requirements
Male
20s–60s
Fit/athletic build
Clean-shaven
Short hair
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or bordering states to Illinois
Job Description A Chicago-based television series is casting paid background actors to portray dressed police officers in an upcoming scene. This opportunity is open to local talent in Chicago, surrounding suburbs, and Illinois border states only.
Casting directors are seeking clean-shaven men with short hair and women with a natural look (no false eyelashes or long painted nails), ages 20s–40s, of all ethnicities. Talent must present a professional, uniform-ready appearance suitable for portraying law enforcement officers.
This is a great opportunity for background actors looking to gain experience on a major television production.
Job Responsibilities
Portray dressed police officers in background scenes
Maintain a clean, professional appearance on camera
Follow direction from the assistant director and production team
Be available for a full filming day
Requirements
Men: Clean-shaven with short hair
Women: Natural look (no false eyelashes or long painted nails)
Ages 20s–40s
All ethnicities encouraged to apply
Must be local to Chicago or surrounding Illinois border states
Submit recent color photo
Include last date worked on the show (if applicable)
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Casting Call for Students and White Shirt Role
Chicago Fire Department Students and White Shirt Role
Job Description A Chicago-based television series is casting paid background actors for two roles: Chicago Fire Department students and a featured “white shirt” role. This opportunity is open to local talent in Chicago, surrounding suburbs, and Illinois border states only.
Casting directors are seeking clean-shaven men with short hair, ages 20s–40s, of all ethnicities to portray fire department students in training scenes. Production is also looking for an African American male, ages 40s–60s, clean-shaven with short hair, to portray a “white shirt” (supervisory fire department role).
This is a great opportunity for background actors to gain experience on a major network television production.
Job Responsibilities
Portray Chicago Fire Department students or supervisory personnel
Maintain a professional, uniform-ready appearance
Follow direction from the assistant director and production team
Remain available for a full filming day
Requirements
Local to Chicago, suburbs, or Illinois border states
Fire Department Students: Clean-shaven men, short hair, ages 20s–40s, all ethnicities
White Shirt Role: African American male, ages 40s–60s, clean-shaven, short hair
Include last date worked on the show (if applicable)
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Casting Call for Corporate Business Suit Extras
Corporate Business Suit Extras for TV Series
Job Description A hit Chicago-based television series is casting men and women who own business suits and can pull off a strong corporate look. This paid background acting opportunity is open to talent ages 30s–60s of all ethnicities who are local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or Illinois border states.
Casting directors are seeking professionals with a polished, executive appearance to portray corporate employees in office or business-related scenes. Talent must have their own business suit and be able to present a believable corporate presence on camera.
This is a great opportunity for experienced extras and aspiring actors looking to work on a major TV production filming in Chicago.
Job Responsibilities
Portray corporate professionals in background scenes
Arrive on set wearing a business suit
Follow direction from the assistant director and production team
Maintain continuity and professionalism throughout filming
Requirements
Men and women, ages 30s–60s
All ethnicities encouraged to apply
Must own and wear a business suit
Local to Chicago, suburbs, or surrounding Illinois border states
Submit recent color photo wearing a business suit
Include last date worked on the show (if applicable)
Chicago TV Series Paid Extras and Mail Carrier Role
Job Description A popular Chicago-based television series is casting paid background actors for non-speaking extra roles. Production is seeking men and women, ages 20s to 60s, of all ethnicities to work in upcoming scenes. Filming will take place in the Chicago area, and talent must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or Illinois border states.
In addition to general background roles, casting directors are specifically looking for a female actor who can fit a mail carrier uniform (medium shirt, pants size 8 or 10). Selected talent for this role will attend a wardrobe fitting prior to filming.
Some roles require talent to work with their cars on camera. Vehicles must not be black, red, or white. This is a great opportunity for aspiring actors and experienced extras to gain television production experience on a major network series.
Job Responsibilities
Perform as a non-speaking background extra in various scenes
Follow on-set direction from the assistant director and crew
Maintain professional behavior and continuity during filming
Attend wardrobe fitting if selected for the mail carrier role
Provide vehicle details if submitting for car-related scenes
Requirements
Men and women, ages 20s–60s
All ethnicities encouraged to apply
Must be local to Chicago, suburbs, or Illinois border states
Submit a recent color photograph
For car scenes: include vehicle color, year, and make (no black, red, or white cars)
For mail carrier role: must fit medium shirt and size 8 or 10 pants
Compensation
Paid non-speaking extra roles
Additional fitting compensation if applicable
On-set experience on a major television production
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Casting Call for Chicago Fire Students
Chicago Fire Department Student Extras
Job Description A hit television drama is casting clean-shaven men and women to portray Chicago Fire Department students. This paid TV extra casting call is open to local talent in Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, and nearby Illinois border states.
Casting directors are seeking men in their 20s to 40s with short hair, as well as women who can maintain a natural look (no false eyelashes or long painted nails). Talent must be able to realistically portray fire department students in training scenes.
This is a great opportunity for aspiring actors and experienced background performers looking to gain on-set experience on a popular television production filming in Chicago.
Job Responsibilities
Portray Chicago Fire Department students in training scenes
Follow direction from the assistant director and production team
Maintain continuity and professional behavior on set
Arrive camera-ready with a natural, clean appearance
Provide accurate wardrobe sizing for production
Requirements
Local to Chicago, suburbs, or surrounding Illinois border states
Men: 20s–40s, clean-shaven, short hair, all ethnicities
Women: Natural look (no false eyelashes, no long painted nails)
Include last date worked on the show (if applicable)
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for Babies
Newborn Babies for “Chicago Fire” TV Series – Chicago, IL
Job Description A hit television series filming in Chicago is casting newborn babies for an upcoming episode. This paid TV casting call is seeking single newborns, twins, or triplets weighing between 6 lbs and 11 lbs to appear in scenes on set.
Filming will take place in Chicago, and families must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or nearby Illinois border states. A baby nurse will be present on set, and production takes special care to ensure newborn safety and comfort. All babies must have a valid Joan Philo work permit prior to filming (guidance will be provided if needed).
This is a short on-set commitment designed specifically for newborns.
Job Responsibilities
Appear on camera as a newborn baby in a television scene
Be available for scheduled filming days
Parent or guardian must remain on set at all times
Follow production guidelines for infant safety
Requirements
Newborn babies weighing 6 lbs to 11 lbs
Single babies, twins, or triplets
Must be local to Chicago, IL or nearby surrounding areas
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for a Cocktail Party Scene
Cocktail Bar Scene Background Casting Call
Job Description A television production is casting background actors to portray stylish patrons in a fun, upscale cocktail bar scene. This opportunity is perfect for talent in their 20s and 30s with a polished, fashionable look who can bring energy and authenticity to a lively nightlife setting. The scene will feature a large group to create a vibrant downtown atmosphere.
Job Responsibilities
Appear on camera as a cocktail bar guest in a social scene
Portray natural interactions in a trendy nightlife environment
Follow direction from the production and assistant directing team
Maintain continuity in wardrobe, hair, makeup, and movement
Remain professional, punctual, and camera-ready on set
Requirements
Male and female talent
Ages 20s–30s
All ethnicities encouraged to apply
Stylish, attractive, and camera-ready appearance
Comfortable wearing upscale cocktail bar attire
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or bordering states
Men should have measurements available (height, weight, suit jacket, neck, sleeve, waist, inseam, shoe)
Women should have measurements available (height, weight, dress, pants, T-shirt, shoe)
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for Pedestrians w/ Cars
Pedestrians and Drivers Background Casting Call
Job Description A television production is casting background actors to portray pedestrians and pedestrians with cars in realistic street scenes. These are non-speaking extra roles ideal for talent looking to gain on-set experience in a professional production environment. The production is seeking a wide range of everyday looks to create authentic city atmosphere.
Job Responsibilities
Appear on camera as a pedestrian or pedestrian with a vehicle
Follow direction from assistant directors and production staff
Maintain continuity in movement, wardrobe, and positioning
Remain professional and attentive while on set
Requirements
Male and female talent
Ages 20s to 50s
All ethnicities encouraged to apply
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or bordering states to Illinois
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for CFD Delivery Person
Male Background Actor for Delivery Person Role
Job Description A television series is casting a male background actor to portray a delivery person in an upcoming scene. This role requires a clean-cut, professional appearance and the ability to follow on-set direction while contributing to a realistic workplace environment. The scene will be filmed for a scripted television production.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a delivery person in a television scene
Follow blocking and direction from the production team
Maintain continuity and professionalism on set
Appear camera-ready throughout filming
Requirements
Male performers ages 20s–40s
Clean-shaven with short hair
Must be local to Chicago, nearby suburbs, or surrounding border states
Comfortable performing background action on camera
Reliable, punctual, and professional
Prior background experience is helpful but not required
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for Real Dad and Child
Real Dad and Child for Television Series Scene
Job Description A television production is casting a real father and child to appear together in a scripted scene. This role focuses on authentic interaction and natural chemistry between parent and child, helping bring realism to a family moment on screen. The production is seeking genuine parent-child pairs for background work in a professional TV environment.
Job Responsibilities
Appear on camera together in a television scene
Interact naturally as a real parent and child
Follow on-set direction from the production team
Participate in a wardrobe fitting prior to filming
Requirements
Real father and child pairing
Child must be 6 years old
Open to all ethnicities
Must be local to Chicago, nearby suburbs, or surrounding border states
Available for filming and a wardrobe fitting during the same week
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for Male and Female with Short Hair
Background Actors for Television Series Scenes
Job Description A television series is casting background actors to appear in interior and exterior scenes filmed in the Chicago area. The production is seeking clean-cut performers to help create realistic, everyday environments on screen. This opportunity is open to a wide age range and is ideal for talent interested in non-union television background work.
Job Responsibilities
Portray everyday background characters in scripted scenes
Follow on-set direction for movement and continuity
Appear in both indoor and outdoor filming environments
Maintain a professional and camera-ready appearance
Requirements
Clean-shaven male performers with short hair
Female performers welcome
Ages 20s–70s
Must be local to Chicago, nearby suburbs, or surrounding border states
Comfortable working indoors and outdoors
Reliable, punctual, and able to follow direction
Prior background experience is helpful but not required
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for Male and Female Extras
Background Actors for Television Series
Job Description A television production is seeking local background actors to appear in interior and exterior scenes filmed in the Chicago area and surrounding suburbs. This opportunity is open to a wide range of ages and looks, making it ideal for performers interested in gaining experience on a professional TV set.
Job Responsibilities
Portray everyday characters in scripted television scenes
Participate in indoor and outdoor background action
Follow on-set direction and maintain continuity between takes
Work professionally with cast and crew
Requirements
Male and female performers, ages 20s–70s
Must be local to Chicago, nearby suburbs, or surrounding border states
Comfortable working indoors and outdoors
Reliable, punctual, and able to follow instructions
Prior background experience is helpful but not required
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for Evy Stand-In
Stand-In Role for Television Production
Job Description A scripted television production is seeking a Caucasian female stand-in to support continuity and lighting setups on set. This non-speaking stand-in role is ideal for talent with a close physical match to a principal actor and availability for professional on-set work. Prior on-set experience is helpful but not required.
Job Responsibilities
Serve as a stand-in for a principal performer during technical setups
Maintain consistent positioning, posture, and movement as directed
Work closely with the crew to support lighting and camera preparation
Remain professional and camera-ready throughout filming
Requirements
Caucasian female
Light brown or dark blonde hair
Height between 5’3” and 5’4”
Weight range between 105–125 lbs
Must closely match the required physical specifications
Available to work as a non-speaking stand-in on a TV set
Compensation
$186 for 8 hours
Time and a half pay after 8 hours
Paid stand-in role on a professional television production
NBC “Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for Passengers
Chicago Fire – Passenger Background Roles
Job Description A network television series is casting paid background actors to portray passengers in upcoming episodes filming in the western suburbs of Chicago. These are non-speaking roles and a great opportunity for performers looking to gain on-set experience in a fast-paced television production. Talent must be available for all required filming days.
Job Responsibilities
Appear on camera as a passenger in background scenes
Perform natural, non-speaking background actions
Follow on-set direction from the production team
Maintain professionalism, punctuality, and readiness throughout filming
Requirements
Male and female performers ages 20s–70s
All ethnicities encouraged to apply
Must be available for all scheduled filming days
Comfortable working in non-speaking background roles
Must be able to work as a local hire in Chicago or surrounding areas
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for New Teen Extras
Teen Extras for Television Series
Job Description A scripted television series is casting teens for paid, non-speaking background roles. This opportunity is ideal for young performers looking to gain professional on-set experience while working on a major TV production. Filming will take place in the western suburbs, with multiple shoot days available.
Job Responsibilities
Appear as background talent in scripted television scenes
Follow on-set direction from the production team
Maintain professionalism during filming
Attend a wardrobe fitting if selected (optional but helpful)
Requirements
Teens ages 16–18
Open to all ethnicities
Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or nearby border states
Available to work multiple shoot days in the western suburbs
Comfortable working as a non-speaking extra on a TV set
Compensation
Paid background role
Industry-standard extra pay rates
Valuable on-set experience with a professional television production
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for Body Double Extra
Body Double Extra (Non-Speaking)
Job Description A TV production is seeking local background talent to work in a tight, enclosed filming setup for a special episode. This is a paid, non-speaking extra role for men and women who are comfortable in compact spaces and can maintain a professional, calm presence on set. Selected talent may be asked to wear a flesh-toned bodysuit-style wardrobe as part of the scene.
Job Responsibilities
Perform as non-speaking background talent in a special episode scene
Work comfortably in a very compact filming environment
Follow on-set direction and maintain continuity between takes
Wear assigned wardrobe, which may include a flesh-colored bodysuit
Requirements
Male and female talent, ages 20s–40s
All ethnicities encouraged to apply
Must not be claustrophobic and must be comfortable in tight spaces
Must be able to work as a local hire in Chicago, nearby suburbs, or surrounding border states to Illinois
Reliable, punctual, and able to follow direction in a fast-paced set environment
Compensation
Paid non-speaking extra role (rate provided upon selection)
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for Real Firefighters
Real Firefighters (Paid TV Extra Roles)
Job Description A TV production is seeking real firefighters to appear on camera in authentic emergency-response scenes for a special episode. This is a paid, non-speaking background opportunity for firefighters who can bring real-world presence, uniform accuracy, and professional realism to set. Availability across multiple shoot days is a plus, and early call times are possible.
Job Responsibilities
Appear on camera as a real firefighter in emergency and station-style scenes
Wear your real firefighter uniform/gear as appropriate for the scene
Follow on-set direction and maintain continuity across multiple takes
Be punctual, professional, and camera-ready for long production days
Requirements
Must be a real firefighter
Open to men and women; all ethnicities encouraged to apply
Able to work as a local hire in the Chicago area/Western Suburbs
Comfortable performing as non-speaking background talent
Must have a recent color photo in uniform (no sunglasses, no group photos)
NBC ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Casting Call for Latina Photo Double
Latina Stand-In (TV Production)
Job Description A TV production is seeking a Latina stand-in to match a principal actor for lighting and camera blocking. This paid stand-in opportunity is ideal for talent who can closely match the performer’s height, weight, complexion, and overall look, and who can work professionally on a fast-paced set.
Job Responsibilities
Stand in for a principal actor during lighting setups and camera rehearsals
Match the actor’s general look for scene continuity (height, weight, complexion)
Follow direction from the crew and remain ready between setups
Maintain consistency with wardrobe and positioning across takes
Requirements
Latina
Height: 5’3″–5’5″
Weight: 115–145
Dark hair
Must be able to closely match the actor’s look for lighting and camera work
Don’t miss your chance to work on one of network TV’s most iconic drama series. Apply now and take your first step onto the set of Chicago Fire Season 14 with Project Casting!
‘9/12’ Limited Series Starring Jeremy Strong Greenlit at Paramount+
Paramount+ has officially greenlit 9/12, a six-episode limited series starring and executive produced by Emmy and Tony Award winner Jeremy Strong (Succession, The Apprentice). The project is one of the first original series ordered under the streamer’s new leadership and represents a major milestone for the revived Paramount Television Studios.
Set against the aftermath of September 11, 2001, 9/12 tells a powerful story about justice, accountability, and the long legal battle fought on behalf of ailing first responders — shifting the focus from the tragedy itself to the years that followed.
What Is 9/12 About?
9/12 dramatizes a landmark, nearly decade-long legal fight that resulted in almost $1 billion in compensation for first responders who became seriously ill after working at Ground Zero. While the series is rooted in real events, it approaches the story through a dramatized lens that explores institutional failure, moral courage, and perseverance.
The title 9/12 reflects the moment immediately after the attacks — a time defined by unity, resilience, and collective responsibility — while questioning how that unity eroded when long-term consequences emerged.
Jeremy Strong’s Role in 9/12
Jeremy Strong stars as Jason Smith, a composite fictional character inspired by real-life class action attorneys who challenged powerful institutions on behalf of first responders. Smith is portrayed as a relentless advocate willing to risk his career to confront political obstruction, corruption, and greed.
Strong also serves as an executive producer on the series, playing a key role in shaping its emotional and thematic depth.
The Creative Team Behind 9/12
The limited series is written and directed by Tobias Lindholm (The Investigation), with Frank Pugliese (House of Cards) serving as writer and executive producer. The series is produced by Paramount Television Studios in partnership with Sister.
Lindholm has described 9/12 as a story about human strength and perseverance in the face of unthinkable adversity, while Pugliese brings his experience crafting politically charged, character-driven narratives to the project.
Who Is Casting 9/12?
Casting for 9/12 is being handled by Jennifer Venditti, in collaboration with JV8 Inc, the New York–based casting agency she founded.
Jennifer Venditti is a renowned casting director recognized for her unconventional, human-first approach to casting. She began her career street scouting real people for advertising, fashion, and film, helping redefine traditional casting methods. Venditti later made her directorial debut with Billy the Kid and has built a career centered on authenticity, diversity, and emotionally grounded performances.
Founded in 1998, JV8 Inc has become one of New York City’s most respected casting agencies, known for discovering talent often overlooked by conventional casting pipelines. The agency’s involvement signals a strong emphasis on realism and lived experience — a natural fit for a series rooted in real-world events like 9/12.
Paramount Series ‘9/12’ Casting Call For Families
Paramount Series “9/12” – Family Background Roles
Job Description
The Paramount series “9/12” is seeking a real family for paid background roles in New York City. The production is looking for two parents or guardians to appear alongside their two children, who should be siblings between the ages of 9 and 11. This is a non-SAG background opportunity for a family that can work together on set.
Job Responsibilities
Portray a family in background scenes for the Paramount series “9/12.”
Parents or guardians will work on set alongside their two children.
Participate in assigned background scenes as directed by the production team.
Follow all on-set instructions and maintain professional behavior throughout filming.
Ensure children are accompanied and supervised by their parents or guardians as required.
Requirements
Two parents or guardians with two children.
Children must be siblings.
Children should be ages 9–11.
Must be local to the New York City/New Jersey area.
Family members must be available to work together.
Must be comfortable working as background talent on a television production.
Real Firefighters & First Responders for Limited Series
Job Description A high-profile limited series inspired by real-world events is now casting real firefighters and first responders for on-camera roles. This production is seeking authentic individuals to bring realism and lived experience to emotionally grounded scenes. No prior acting experience is required, making this a great opportunity for first-time performers interested in television work.
Job Responsibilities
Appear on camera portraying real firefighters or first responders
Bring authenticity and realism to scripted scenes
Follow on-set direction from the creative team
Work professionally with cast and crew during filming
Requirements
Real firefighters or real first responders only
Open to all genders and ethnicities
Must be 18 years or older
Firefighters may be active or retired
First responders may include police officers, EMTs, or paramedics
Must be legally eligible to work in the United States
The project was originally developed under the title The Best of Us and experienced delays due to regulatory approval tied to the Skydance–Paramount Global merger. With the acquisition finalized, 9/12 is now fully back on track.
Jeremy Strong on the Meaning of 9/12
Strong has described 9/12 as a story about justice, dignity, and remembrance. Drawing inspiration from the unity shown in the days following 9/11, the series also confronts the painful reality of how many first responders were later failed by the institutions meant to protect them.
The project aims to honor their sacrifices while shedding light on the long fight for accountability.
Why 9/12 Is One of Paramount+’s Most Anticipated Series
With a high-profile lead, an acclaimed creative team, and a socially resonant subject, 9/12 is positioned as one of Paramount+’s most impactful limited series to date. Its focus on real people, real consequences, and long-overdue justice sets it apart in the evolving streaming landscape.
Find Acting Opportunities on Project Casting
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George Clooney turned one of the biggest honors of his career into a passionate defense of storytelling, free expression and empathy.
The 65-year-old actor, filmmaker and producer received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement during the opening ceremony of the 83rd Venice International Film Festival on September 2. The prestigious honor recognized a career spanning acting, directing, producing and humanitarian work.
Clooney’s acceptance speech mixed his familiar humor with emotional words about his wife, Amal Clooney, their twins Ella and Alexander, and the responsibility artists have during politically divided times.
“I am at a loss for words to describe how much I love my wife,” he said, before expressing how proud he is of her.
But the speech soon moved beyond his family.
Clooney warned about people who use fear to divide society and argued that journalists, filmmakers, writers, actors and musicians play an important role in challenging simplistic narratives.
His central message was that storytelling may not directly solve political or economic problems, but it can make audiences empathize with people whose lives are different from their own.
George Clooney Receives Venice’s Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement
The Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement is among the Venice Film Festival’s most prestigious honors.
La Biennale’s board selected Clooney for the award following a recommendation from festival artistic director Alberto Barbera, recognizing his work as an actor, director and producer.
Clooney immediately approached the honor with humor.
He joked that receiving a lifetime achievement award creates two reactions: gratitude for the recognition and concern that perhaps the organizers know something about his health that he doesn’t.
The joke reflected the self-deprecating style that has followed Clooney throughout much of his public career.
Yet the significance of the honor was unmistakable.
Clooney has maintained a particularly close relationship with Venice for nearly three decades, first attending the festival with Steven Soderbergh’s Out of Sight in 1998.
George Clooney Gives an Emotional Shoutout to Amal and Their Children
George Clooney reserved some of his most personal comments for his family.
He spoke warmly about Amal, the international human rights lawyer he married in Venice in 2014, telling the audience how much he loves her and how proud he is of her.
The couple are parents to twins Ella and Alexander.
Clooney also brought some comedy into the family tribute, joking that his children are the only two people who thought he was good as Batman.
The reference was to 1997’s Batman & Robin, a movie Clooney has repeatedly joked about over the years.
His family connection made Venice an especially fitting location for the career honor. The city isn’t simply an important stop in Clooney’s filmmaking career; it’s also where he and Amal celebrated their wedding in 2014.
George Clooney Uses His Speech to Defend Artists and Journalists
The tone became considerably more serious when Clooney addressed free expression.
He argued that societies should be cautious when powerful people encourage citizens to fear one another.
Clooney specifically highlighted journalists, filmmakers, writers, actors and musicians, arguing that artists and storytellers can challenge fear by encouraging people to consider perspectives beyond their own.
He warned that stories can become threatening to people who depend on fear because stories encourage audiences to see humanity in strangers.
His comments were political in nature, but the broader argument centered on the role of culture and storytelling in democratic societies. Other reporting from Venice noted Clooney’s criticism of authoritarian tendencies and his emphasis on empathy through art.
Rather than suggesting that movies themselves can fix major global problems, Clooney acknowledged their limitations.
His argument was that cinema’s power comes from something different: its ability to place audiences inside another person’s experience.
Why Clooney Believes Movies Still Matter
Clooney’s speech ultimately became an argument for the importance of storytelling.
Movies cannot end wars or fix inflation, he acknowledged. But they can influence how people understand one another.
That philosophy has appeared throughout his filmmaking career.
As a director and producer, Clooney has frequently gravitated toward stories involving journalism, politics, institutional power and personal responsibility.
Perhaps the clearest example is Good Night, and Good Luck, his 2005 film about journalist Edward R. Murrow’s confrontation with Senator Joseph McCarthy.
The movie premiered at Venice and earned six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director.
His speech therefore wasn’t entirely separate from his filmmaking career. Many of the themes he discussed onstage have also appeared in the projects he has chosen to make.
7 Major Moments From Clooney’s Career
The Golden Lion recognizes decades of work across television, movies, directing and producing. Here are seven milestones that helped define Clooney’s career:
ER made him a television star. His role as Dr. Doug Ross on the NBC medical drama transformed him into a major Hollywood name during the 1990s.
Ocean’s Eleven established a blockbuster franchise. Clooney starred as Danny Ocean alongside Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and Julia Roberts in Steven Soderbergh’s 2001 hit.
Good Night, and Good Luck showcased him as a filmmaker. Clooney directed, co-wrote and appeared in the acclaimed 2005 historical drama.
Syriana earned him an Academy Award. He won Best Supporting Actor for the 2005 geopolitical thriller.
Argo brought another Oscar. Clooney was among the producers who won Best Picture for Ben Affleck’s 2012 film.
Gravity became one of his biggest critical and commercial projects. Alfonso Cuarón’s space thriller, starring Sandra Bullock alongside Clooney, premiered at Venice in 2013.
Jay Kelly brought him back to Venice. Clooney starred in Noah Baumbach’s film alongside Adam Sandler and Laura Dern, continuing his longstanding connection with the festival.
His career has earned him eight Academy Award nominations and two wins, alongside extensive recognition as an actor, filmmaker and producer.
Laura Dern Presented Clooney With the Golden Lion
Another longtime friend played a central role in the ceremony.
Laura Dern delivered the official laudatio and presented Clooney with the Golden Lion at Venice’s Sala Grande. The festival had announced her involvement several days before the ceremony.
Dern and Clooney recently appeared together in Noah Baumbach’s Jay Kelly, which competed at Venice in 2025.
Their professional connection actually stretches much further back.
Both actors appeared in the troubled production Grizzly II: Revenge early in their careers, years before either became an Academy Award-winning Hollywood star.
Dern praised Clooney’s career and character while introducing the honor.
She wasn’t the only Hollywood star involved.
Brad Pitt Roasts His Ocean’s Costar From Afar
Brad Pitt couldn’t attend the ceremony, but he made sure his longtime friend didn’t receive a lifetime achievement award without being roasted.
Dern read a message from Pitt praising Clooney as an actor, humanitarian, prankster and friend.
Then came the punchline.
Pitt described him as a “really bad dancer.”
The joke was particularly fitting considering the friendship audiences have watched between the two stars since Ocean’s Eleven.
They subsequently appeared together in Ocean’s Twelve, Ocean’s Thirteen, Burn After Reading and, most recently, Wolfs.
Their collaboration isn’t finished either.
Ocean’s 14 Is Bringing Danny Ocean Back
Clooney is preparing to reprise Danny Ocean in another installment of the Ocean’s franchise.
Ocean’s 14 is expected to reunite several members of the franchise’s ensemble, including Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and Don Cheadle, with production reportedly scheduled to begin in October 2026.
That makes the timing of Clooney’s lifetime achievement award somewhat ironic.
Venice may be celebrating everything he has already accomplished, but the actor doesn’t appear particularly interested in slowing down.
At the festival, however, Clooney indicated that the next stage of his career could involve more acting and less directing.
Fatherhood has changed how he approaches his schedule, and he has suggested that directing requires more time away from his family than he currently wants to commit.
Venice Has Played a Major Role in Clooney’s Life
Few major film festivals are as closely connected to Clooney’s career as Venice.
His relationship with the festival began with Out of Sight in 1998.
Over the following decades, Venice hosted projects including Good Night, and Good Luck, Michael Clayton, Burn After Reading, Gravity and Jay Kelly.
The city also became central to his personal life.
George and Amal married in Venice in 2014, making the city the setting for one of the most important moments of his life outside filmmaking.
Before receiving the Golden Lion, Clooney described Venice as his favorite festival and called the lifetime achievement recognition a “tremendous honor.”
What Clooney’s Speech Says About Storytelling
For actors and filmmakers, the most relevant part of the speech may have been Clooney’s argument about what storytelling can accomplish.
An actor’s job isn’t simply to perform dialogue or entertain an audience. At its strongest, performance can make viewers understand characters whose backgrounds, beliefs and experiences are completely different from their own.
That idea applies far beyond major Hollywood productions.
Every actor beginning with an audition is ultimately trying to make another person’s experience believable.
Clooney’s message at Venice was that this process still matters, particularly when society becomes divided.
Films might not solve the world’s biggest problems.
But stories can influence how people see one another.
For an actor receiving one of cinema’s biggest lifetime honors after more than four decades in the industry, that was a fitting argument for why the work remains worth doing.
George Clooney Enters the Next Chapter of His Career
Receiving a lifetime achievement award can sound like the conclusion of a career, but George Clooney appears to view it differently.
He remains active as an actor and producer, with another Ocean’s movie moving forward and his recent work continuing to connect him with major filmmakers.
He is simply becoming more selective about how he spends his time.
At Venice, Clooney used the opportunity to recognize the people closest to him while also making a broader case for artistic freedom, journalism and storytelling.
His closing message focused on determination, love and mutual respect — and the possibility that society can remain intact even through periods of intense disagreement.
For an evening designed to celebrate his past, Clooney spent much of his speech talking about why stories will continue to matter in the future.
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FAQs
What Did George Clooney Say in His Venice Film Festival Speech?
George Clooney thanked his wife Amal and their children while using his Golden Lion acceptance speech to defend storytelling, free expression and the importance of empathy. He argued that artists and journalists have an important role in societies where fear and division are being encouraged.
Why Did George Clooney Receive the Golden Lion?
Clooney received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement in recognition of his career as an actor, director and producer. The award was presented during the opening ceremony of the 83rd Venice International Film Festival on September 2, 2026.
How Many Oscars Has George Clooney Won?
Clooney has won two Academy Awards. He won Best Supporting Actor for Syriana and later shared the Best Picture Oscar as a producer of Argo. Across his career, he has received eight Academy Award nominations.
Gal Gadot may be one of Hollywood’s most recognizable action stars, but even she has experienced the kind of audition rejection every working actor knows.
The Wonder Woman star recently revealed that she once spent approximately four hours auditioning for George Miller’s Mad Max: Fury Road alongside Tom Hiddleston.
Neither actor got the movie.
Speaking on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Gadot described the London screen test as an intense process involving hours of filming and performance work. She arrived bundled up for the cold weather and said she eventually emerged wearing only a tank top because of how physically demanding the session became.
The experience is another reminder that even actors who eventually become global stars can spend hours competing for major roles — and still hear no.
Gal Gadot Spent Four Hours Auditioning for Mad Max
Gadot said the screen test took place in London with director George Miller.
She was paired with Tom Hiddleston for the audition.
“We stayed there for four hours,” Gadot recalled on the podcast, describing the process as unusually intensive.
According to Gadot, the actors filmed extensively throughout the session.
She remembered arriving at the location wearing multiple layers because it was a cold winter day in London.
Four hours later, the physical intensity of the audition had left her down to a tank top.
For actors accustomed to quick self-tapes or short casting sessions, a four-hour audition may sound extreme.
But major screen tests can involve far more than simply performing one scene.
Directors may want to test chemistry, stamina, movement, improvisation, reactions and how performers respond to repeated adjustments.
Tom Hiddleston Was Her Audition Partner
One of the biggest surprises in Gadot’s story was her screen-test partner.
She auditioned opposite Tom Hiddleston, who would later become internationally known for playing Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Neither performer ultimately joined Fury Road.
The final film starred Tom Hardy as Max Rockatansky and Charlize Theron as Imperator Furiosa.
That means audiences could have potentially seen a dramatically different version of one of the most acclaimed action movies of the past decade.
While reporting has linked Gadot’s test to the role of Furiosa, the exact roles being tested during the session were not formally announced by the production at the time.
Gadot Thought the Audition Went Well
Perhaps the most relatable part of the story for actors is that Gadot apparently left feeling good about what she had done.
The session was exhausting, but creatively satisfying.
And then she didn’t get the job.
That experience can be difficult for actors because strong auditions can sometimes create false confidence about the result.
You may walk out thinking:
“That went perfectly.”
Casting may agree.
And you still may not be the person they ultimately choose.
The reason could involve chemistry, physical appearance, character interpretation, studio preferences or simply a director having a different picture in mind.
A strong audition and a booking are not the same thing.
George Miller Had a Very Specific Vision
Gadot’s comments also highlight an important part of major film casting: directors are often searching for something extremely specific.
George Miller had been developing Fury Road for years before production finally moved forward.
The resulting film relied heavily on physical storytelling, practical action, unusual character designs and a highly specific visual world.
Charlize Theron’s performance as Furiosa ultimately became one of the movie’s defining elements.
Tom Hardy brought an equally distinctive interpretation to Max.
Gadot acknowledged that Miller ultimately had a vision for the movie that went in another direction.
For actors, that distinction matters.
Sometimes rejection does not mean:
“You weren’t good enough.”
It means:
“The director saw this character differently.”
The Movie Went On to Become an Oscar-Winning Hit
Mad Max: Fury Road was released in 2015 and quickly became one of the most acclaimed action films of its era.
The movie received 10 Academy Award nominations and won six Oscars, including awards for film editing, costume design, production design, makeup and hairstyling, sound editing and sound mixing.
That makes Gadot’s story particularly interesting in hindsight.
She wasn’t simply auditioning for another action film.
She was competing for a place in a movie that would eventually become a major part of modern film history.
And she didn’t get it.
Then Gal Gadot Became Wonder Woman
Missing Mad Max clearly did not stop Gadot’s career.
She would go on to land the role that transformed her into an international star: Wonder Woman.
Gadot first appeared as Diana Prince in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice before leading 2017’s Wonder Woman.
The role turned her into the face of another enormous action franchise.
That sequence offers an important lesson for actors.
Had Gadot booked Fury Road, her career might have followed an entirely different path.
Instead, one major rejection was eventually followed by another career-changing opportunity.
Actors rarely know which role will actually become the defining one.
What Actors Can Learn From Gal Gadot’s Audition
Getting Far in Casting Is Still an Achievement
A four-hour screen test with the director of a major studio movie means casting already sees significant potential.
Actors should remember that reaching a chemistry read or screen test is itself meaningful.
You may not book the role, but you were seriously considered.
You Can Give a Great Audition and Still Lose the Job
This may be the biggest lesson.
Auditioning is not a school exam where the highest score automatically wins.
Multiple actors can perform exceptionally well.
Casting still has to choose one.
Be Ready for the Audition to Change
A major screen test may involve much more than reading the sides once.
You could be asked to:
Perform the scene multiple ways
Work with different actors
Improvise
Change your physicality
Take significant redirection
Repeat scenes for camera
Test wardrobe or makeup
Perform movement or action exercises
Actors who can adjust quickly often have an advantage.
Chemistry Matters
Gadot was not auditioning in isolation.
She was working opposite another actor.
For many major roles, filmmakers are testing combinations of performers rather than evaluating each actor independently.
You may be excellent for the role but not create the exact chemistry they want with another cast member.
That is outside your control.
Don’t Let One Audition Define Your Career
Imagine if Gadot had viewed losing Mad Max as evidence that Hollywood wasn’t going to work out.
She would have missed everything that came afterward.
Actors often focus intensely on the opportunity directly in front of them.
But careers are built across hundreds of auditions, meetings, relationships and performances.
One role rarely determines everything.
Kat Dennings Had a Similar Mad Max Experience
Gadot’s revelation is particularly interesting because she isn’t the only well-known actress to recently discuss an unusually demanding Fury Road audition.
Kat Dennings also revealed that she went through a lengthy audition process for the film, spending approximately six hours working opposite Tom Hardy.
Dennings described that session as grueling and recalled being asked to perform unconventional exercises, including switching roles and communicating without relying on the written dialogue.
She didn’t get the movie either.
Taken together, the stories show just how extensive Miller’s casting process appears to have been.
The filmmakers weren’t simply trying to find famous names.
They were testing performers deeply before deciding who belonged in the world of Fury Road.
Even Famous Actors Audition
This is something aspiring actors can easily forget.
Audiences usually meet celebrities after they become successful.
They see the finished movies.
They see red carpets.
They see awards.
They don’t see the dozens of roles those same performers didn’t get.
Gadot’s four-hour Mad Max audition happened before Wonder Woman made her one of Hollywood’s most recognizable stars.
Hiddleston also went through the test despite already having significant professional experience.
Successful actors still audition.
Successful actors still lose roles.
Successful actors still have projects where another performer was simply the better fit.
Why Rejection Can Actually Help Actors
Rejection is difficult, but reaching advanced stages of casting can provide useful information.
If you keep receiving callbacks, something about your auditions is working.
If you repeatedly reach producer sessions or chemistry reads, casting professionals are taking you seriously.
The problem may not be your ability.
It may simply be finding the specific project where everything aligns.
That is why actors should measure progress by more than bookings.
Callbacks matter.
Availability checks matter.
Screen tests matter.
Casting directors remembering you matters.
Those small signs can eventually lead to the role that changes your career.
Don’t Try to Predict What Casting Wants
Actors sometimes react to rejection by trying to reverse-engineer the decision.
Maybe I should have been tougher.
Maybe I should have looked different.
Maybe I should have played it quieter.
Maybe I should have changed the accent.
Usually, you don’t know why the decision was made.
Trying to guess can lead actors away from the qualities that made casting interested in them originally.
Prepare thoroughly.
Make a clear choice.
Listen to direction.
Then allow casting to make its decision.
The Best Audition Mindset: Book the Room, Not the Role
A useful way for actors to think about auditions is to stop treating the booking as the only successful outcome.
You cannot control whether you receive the role.
You can control whether casting wants to see you again.
That means showing up:
Prepared Professional Flexible Creative Easy to work with
If a casting director remembers your audition positively, today’s rejection could lead to another opportunity months or even years later.
Hollywood careers are rarely linear.
Gal Gadot’s Story Is a Reminder to Keep Going
Gadot didn’t become Furiosa.
Hiddleston didn’t become Max.
The movie went on without them.
And both actors went on to build enormous careers elsewhere.
That may be the most important part of this story for performers.
Audition rejection often feels like a door closing.
But actors rarely know what other door is about to open.
The role you desperately wanted may not be the role your career actually needs.
Final Thoughts
Gal Gadot spent four intense hours auditioning for Mad Max: Fury Road alongside Tom Hiddleston.
Neither got the movie.
Charlize Theron and Tom Hardy ultimately became the faces of George Miller’s Oscar-winning film.
But the rejection didn’t stop Gadot.
She eventually became Wonder Woman and one of Hollywood’s most recognizable action stars.
For actors, the takeaway is simple:
A great audition does not guarantee a role — and losing a role does not mean you’re failing.
Sometimes you can spend four hours giving everything you have and still hear no.
Then another audition comes along.
And that one could change everything.
Looking for your next opportunity? Explore film, television, commercial and streaming casting calls at ProjectCasting.com.
FAQ About Gal Gadot’s Mad Max Audition
Did Gal Gadot audition for Mad Max: Fury Road?
Yes. Gadot recently revealed that she participated in a lengthy screen test for George Miller’s Mad Max: Fury Road.
How long was Gal Gadot’s Mad Max audition?
Gadot said the audition lasted approximately four hours.
Who auditioned with Gal Gadot?
She said she screen-tested opposite Tom Hiddleston.
Was Gal Gadot auditioning to play Furiosa?
The recent interview and subsequent reporting have connected Gadot’s screen test with Furiosa, although the production did not publicly announce the exact casting setup at the time.
Who ultimately played Furiosa?
Charlize Theron played Imperator Furiosa in Mad Max: Fury Road.
Who played Mad Max?
Tom Hardy played Max Rockatansky.
Did Tom Hiddleston get a role in the movie?
No. Hiddleston was not part of the final Mad Max: Fury Road cast.
Did Kat Dennings also audition for Mad Max?
Yes. Dennings recently revealed that she went through an approximately six-hour audition process opposite Tom Hardy.
What should actors learn from Gal Gadot’s audition?
Getting deep into the casting process does not guarantee a booking. Actors should focus on preparation, adaptability and professionalism while understanding that many final casting decisions are outside their control.
Where can actors find casting calls?
Actors can find film, television, commercial, streaming and entertainment opportunities at ProjectCasting.com.
