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Landing the right actors for your TV show can make or break its success. Series regulars, in particular, need to embody the characters and chemistry that will keep viewers engaged for multiple seasons. But where do you even begin?
This article will guide you through the entire casting process for series regulars from script breakdown to offer negotiations. We'll also provide you with a free downloadable template to streamline your search and make those crucial casting decisions with confidence.
Once you’ve found your perfect cast, the next exciting (and legally important) step is finalizing their agreements. A series regular TV actor agreement outlines the roles and responsibilities of you, the producer, and the actor. It ensures a smooth working relationship and protects everyone's interests.
Our free downloadable template provides a solid foundation for this agreement, tailored specifically for series regular roles. Keep reading to learn more about what this template offers and how it can help you secure your acting team for the long haul.
Having a strong script and a clear vision for your series is crucial, but to bring those characters to life, you'll need to connect with talented casting directors.
These industry professionals have a knack for identifying actors who possess the perfect blend of charisma, skill, and fit for the role. So, how do you get your project on their radar?
There are several avenues you can explore to connect with casting directors. One tried-and-true method is to leverage online resources like Backstage.
This platform allows you to search for projects currently seeking actors, and many listings will include the associated casting director's name and contact information.
By browsing projects that align with your show's genre, tone, and budget, you can identify casting directors who might be a good fit.
Another strategy is to utilize a casting director database, such as Backstage’s Call Sheet. These resources provide searchable directories of casting directors, often categorized by location and area of expertise. By filtering your search based on your show's needs, you can generate a targeted list of casting directors to reach out to.
Remember, casting directors are busy professionals. When making contact, be sure to personalize your outreach. Briefly introduce yourself and your project, highlighting what makes your series unique.
Express your admiration for their past work and why you believe they'd be a good fit for your show. Keep your initial communication concise and professional and be sure to follow their submission instructions carefully.
By making a strong first impression, you'll increase your chances of landing an interview and showcasing your project to a casting director with the power to turn your vision into reality.
Before you embark on your casting journey, take a deep dive into the characters you've meticulously crafted. A series regular is a long-term commitment, so it's crucial to find actors who not only embody the physical characteristics you envision, but who also possess the talent and personality to bring those characters to life for multiple seasons.
Here are some key qualities to consider:
This might seem obvious, but it's more than just hair color and height. Consider the character's overall vibe, their background, and how their appearance contributes to the story. Does your detective have a world-weary gaze and a sharp jawline? Is your quirky scientist more comfortable in oversized sweaters and mismatched socks?
While the script might specify an age range, be open to exploring actors who fall slightly outside that window. A younger actor might bring a fresh energy to the role, while a more seasoned performer could add depth and experience.
Series regulars commit to a demanding schedule. Factor in the projected shooting timeline and episode count when assessing an actor's availability. Consider conflicts with other projects or personal commitments that might disrupt production.
While the script is your foundation, unforeseen scenarios often arise during filming. Actors with strong improv skills can adapt to these situations seamlessly, keeping the scene dynamic and maintaining the flow of the narrative.
Also, think about if your character requires any other specific talents? Maybe your lead singer needs impressive vocal range, or knowing how to handle a horse would lend authenticity to your rugged ranch owner. Consider any additional skills that are integral to the character and factor those into your casting decisions.
Remember, the best series regulars are not just talented actors who fit the mold – they're collaborators who can breathe life into the character and contribute their own creative spark.
By considering these qualities as you delve into the casting process, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect actors who will become the heart and soul of your TV show.
Finding the perfect series regular cast requires a strategic approach. Luckily, there's a wealth of industry resources and tools at your disposal to streamline your search and connect with talented actors.
Here are some key avenues to explore:
Platforms like Backstage, Actors Access, and Casting Networks provide a centralized hub for actors and casting professionals. You can post breakdowns outlining your character descriptions and desired qualities, allowing actors to submit self-tapes and headshots directly.
These sites also offer advanced search options, enabling you to filter by criteria like age, location, and union affiliation.
Represented actors often have established relationships with casting directors and agents. Consider partnering with a reputable agency specializing in television to gain access to their talent pool and expertise.
Attending industry workshops and showcases provides a valuable opportunity to witness actors in live performance settings. These events offer a chance to assess not only their technical skills but also their stage presence and ability to connect with an audience.
While not a replacement for traditional casting methods, social media platforms can be a useful tool for discovering up-and-coming talent. Utilize relevant hashtags and follow industry accounts to stay informed about rising stars and showcase your project to a wider audience.
By leveraging this combination of industry support and online tools, you'll gain access to a vast pool of talented actors and increase your chances of finding the perfect matches for your series regular roles.
Remember, casting is a collaborative process. Utilize the expertise of these resources to create a well-rounded shortlist and discover the actors who will bring your characters to life.
While headshots and résumés provide a starting point, truly understanding an actor's potential comes from witnessing their work firsthand.
Here are some ways to delve deeper and see your potential series regulars in action:
Most actors maintain online demo reels showcasing their best work from various projects. These reels are a fantastic way to assess an actor's range, technical ability, and on-screen presence.
Look for scenes that demonstrate their ability to embody the emotional core of your character and navigate scenes with different tones and complexities.
If possible, seek out previous productions featuring your shortlisted actors. Whether it's a full-length film, web series, or stage performance, watching them interact with other actors and navigate a complete story will provide valuable insights.
Pay attention to their ability to hold your attention, deliver dialogue convincingly, and connect with their fellow performers.
Several online platforms host short films, student productions, and independent projects. These resources can be a goldmine for discovering up-and-coming talent.
Explore platforms like Vimeo and YouTube, searching by genre and keywords relevant to your characters. You might find hidden gems who haven't yet landed major roles but possess the raw talent and charisma you're seeking.
Industry workshops, showcases, and theater productions offer valuable opportunities to see actors perform live. Observing their stage presence, improvisation skills, and ability to connect with a live audience can be incredibly revealing.
These events also provide a chance to network with other industry professionals who might offer additional insights into the actors' work ethic and professionalism.
Remember, the more you see an actor perform, the better equipped you'll be to assess their suitability for your series regular roles. Don't underestimate the power of witnessing their talent in action – it can make all the difference in finding the perfect fit for your long-term vision.
The final act of your casting journey involves witnessing your potential series regulars bring your characters to life. If resources and scheduling allow, consider conducting live auditions.
This allows you to experience the actors' in-person energy, gauge their chemistry with potential scene partners, and assess their ability to take direction and adapt to your vision. Prepare a scene or two that showcases each character's range and allows the actors to demonstrate their skills.
However, in today's industry, self-tapes are a widely accepted alternative. Actors can submit recordings of themselves performing designated scenes, offering flexibility and convenience for both parties.
When reviewing self-tapes, pay close attention to the actor's delivery, emotional connection to the material, and ability to embody the character's voice and mannerisms. This allows you to make informed decisions based on the actors' on-screen presence even without an in-person interaction.
With your dream cast identified, it's time to solidify their roles with a series regular agreement. Our downloadable template can be a springboard for these negotiations.
Salary is naturally a top priority. Familiarize yourself with SAG-AFTRA minimums for series regulars, considering factors like episode count and budget. Be prepared to offer a competitive rate that falls within those parameters.
Contract length is another key aspect. Standard agreements for series regulars often span multiple seasons, with options for additional renewals. Negotiating a contract length that aligns with your show's projected vision is crucial, while also ensuring fair compensation for the actors' long-term commitment.
Don't forget about the extras! While salary is essential, consider offering additional perks to sweeten the deal. This could include wardrobe allowances, access to professional hair and makeup artists on set, or even first-class travel accommodations for location shoots.
By fostering open and transparent communication about these aspects of the agreement, you can establish a win-win partnership that lays the foundation for a successful and rewarding collaboration for both you and the actors who bring your characters to life.
Finding the perfect series regulars takes dedication. By following these steps, prioritizing clear communication, and taking advantage of our free series regular TV actor agreement, you'll be well on your way to assembling a dream team.
For more useful production resources, check out our full array of downloadable templates. You can also check out our demo for a look at how to streamline and simplify your payroll needs.
At Wrapbook, we pride ourselves on providing outstanding free resources to producers and their crews, but this post is for informational purposes only as of the date above. The content on our website is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for legal, accounting, or tax advice. You should consult with your own legal, accounting, or tax advisors to determine how this general information may apply to your specific circumstances.
Daniela Bailes is a working film and television writer whose work travels across genres. A proud alumnus of the Yale Writer’s Conference in New Haven, she was mentored by literary luminaries before being selected for the National Hispanic Media Coalition TV Writer’s Program, a feature writer on the Latinx Black List, and as a participant in the Sundance Episodic Lab. Her most recent work was staffing on the upcoming Paramount science-fiction series, The Shift, also selling a feature script to A+E Networks.
