How to Get Cast On a Reality Tv Show
Amazing Race, Big Brother, The Apprentice, The Real World, I love New York, Top Model, Project Runway, American Idol. We've all seen or at least heard about these shows. The question is how does one get on to one of these shows and enjoy fifteen minutes (more like 8 weeks) of "fame". After reading this article you'll see that it doesn't really have anything to do with talent or you acting skills. This article will give you step by step instructions on what to do at casting and increase your chance of being on a tv show.
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Instructions
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Stalk the job boards for casting calls. You should check this everyday and be ready to audition on very short notice. Sometimes these casting calls are put up a week or less before the audition date.
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Decide what persona you works for this particular casting call and cultivate it. What? You thought you just showed up and sold yourself? That's not how it works unless your natural self is bipolar or extremely dramatic. Most reality tv stars inject an element of acting into their behavior. Some actually are nothing like what they appear on tv.
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Casting call day. There is no need to get there 10 hrs before the audition starts. There is no need to wear a pink wig and those neon blue platforms sitting in your closet. These gimmicks are good for having the camera pick you up when they are showing who showed up for the audition but can actually work against you once you're inside. As one casting director said to me "I usually ignore the crazies". He also told me that he was biased against those that got there 10 hrs before and those that come in at the last second. If you can't help but fall into those two categories. You have to work harder on developing your persona.
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The actual casting process differs based on what type of tv show it is. For things like Big Brother, Real World and I want to work for Diddy. The first stage is usually in semi-large groups where you have to discuss something or talk about yourself.
Be Vocal.
Scratch that. BE LOUD.
This is not the time to work on the manners your parents have instilled in you. Cut people off. Be confrontational. TV is about drama and that's what the casting director is looking for. If you wait for your turn to speak it might never come. That being said, it's very easy to cross the line and appear like you're just talking to shut everybody else up. Make sure you have something to say (this is where developing your character comes in handy). Usually this will get you to the second round. -
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The second round once again is tailored to each tv program. For things like the Apprentice and Project Runway, your qualifications are more heavily scrutinized. Don't expect to get cast on the Apprentice and have never gone to school unless of course they are doing something like street smarts vs book smarts. You won't get cast on Top Model if you are 5'2 and 180lbs. Be realistic.
In short, the first stage is about personality and what your story is while the second is more about your qualifications.
Now get out there and audition. Can't wait to see you on TV.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are not picked in the first round and you believe you will be good on the show, ask for the casting agents card. You can email him a picture and talk about why you think you are qualified for the position. Persistence can be helpful as these decisions are not set in stone. I've seen people come back after the audition and get passed through the 2nd round.
Make sure your story is believable and sustainable. If you came in thinking that your shaved head (as a girl) makes you uunique. Think about whether viewers would want to hear about it for 9 weeks. Plan accordingly
Do not expect people to be nice at castings. Develop a thick skin.
Reality TV is not necessarily as fun as it can look on tv. They work long hours and don't get much sleep. Additionally, lack of privacy and continuous taping can wear you down.
