Reality TV Casting: What’s Involved?

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Reality TV casting processes vary, but usually involve an application that may include a video, interview, or presentation of qualifications. Candidates usually apply directly and must follow the show’s instructions. Some shows use open casting calls, and physical and background checks are common. Proof of specific abilities or conditions may be required.

Different reality shows have different casting processes, but most reality shows have an application of some sort. Some shows work directly from casting calls, but many weed out unusable candidates with questions first. Depending on the type of show, the application may consist of a video, an interview or a different presentation of the candidate’s qualifications. Once the candidate has passed the first level of the reality TV casting process, there may be additional stages consisting of additional interviews, contests or background checks.

Most reality TV casting procedures begin with candidates selecting themselves. People usually apply directly for these shows rather than being selected on the street or through other means. This means that the first step in reality TV casting is almost always finding an appropriate TV show. Many of these shows only launch in the city where the show is filmed, but some will bring attendees to the location.

Once a prospective attendee has found a show they would be appropriate for, the next step is to follow the show’s application instructions. This can take many different forms and can include a video, a written question, or sending other proof of why it’s appropriate for the show. Casting of this type often includes pictures and other indications of the applicant’s appearance.

Alternatively, some reality TV castings occur through open casting calls which are typically used as part of the show itself. You usually see many different potential attendees in a single day, and the qualities filmmakers are looking for may not be known. Often, there is additional audition material that isn’t televised, and just because a person makes it through the first round of casting doesn’t imply that they will be on the show.

When the TV show talks about people with a particular ability, evidence of that ability can be part of the application process. Similarly, for shows about people with a particular medical condition, proof of that condition may be required. Wellness event shows may require proof that the event in question will actually occur. In general, the application required will depend on the focus of the show.

Often, particularly for shows that include an athletic element, a physical checkup will be part of the final application process. A background check is almost always included in the final stages of reality TV casting. Because reality shows often have large numbers of applicants, they can typically ask for almost any type of personal information as part of the casting process. Applicants who are unwilling to provide this information or undergo these checks are usually disqualified.




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