Insights from Casting Directors of Apple’s Shows: Tips on What They Look for in Auditions
A panel of casting directors from Apple TV’s scripted series recently shared insights into their casting processes, highlighting the challenges and considerations involved in selecting the right talent. The event offered a glimpse into the intricacies of casting decisions that shape some of the platform’s most popular shows.
During the discussion, Tenner spoke about the challenges faced in casting for the series Stick, featuring Owen Wilson as a former professional golfer mentoring a young prodigy. She noted that finding a suitable young actor to complement Wilson’s performance was paramount. “Someone that we were very passionate about casting right from the get-go was Marc Maron,” she stated, referencing the role of Mitts, a friend and former caddy to Wilson’s character, Pryce Cahill. “We loved him. It just seemed so right and elevating for that part, and their chemistry is so great together. That was someone that was super joyful to cast.”
The panel also touched on The Morning Show, which stars Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon. In its fourth season, the show has added several notable actors, including Marion Cotillard and Jeremy Irons. However, Thomas emphasized that the most impactful castings were Billy Crudup and Greta Lee. “In terms of the series in general, not necessarily this year, maybe Billy … because he adds a sort of extra something. He gives the show a little bit more and he’s just delightful to watch,” she explained. “The next one would have been Greta, because she sort of has her own rhythms as well.”
Another highlight was David E. Kelley’s Margo’s Got Money Troubles, which has recently been renewed for a second season. The show stars Elle Fanning, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Nicole Kidman. Rubin mentioned that one of the key roles was that of Jinx, Margo’s father, played by Nick Offerman. “It’s an incredibly nuanced performance, different from things he’s done before,” he remarked. “When we began this process, while we absolutely had Nick in our minds, we also ended up reading a lot of professional wrestlers for the role.” He praised Offerman’s deeply moving and comedic performance, noting his extensive training for the role.
In discussing casting for Pluribus, Vince Gilligan reflected on the influence of Better Call Saul, stating that Rhea Seehorn’s casting was pivotal. “She had mostly done sitcoms before, and we had been a fan of hers forever. Better Call Saul gave her the opportunity to show everybody her range, and she’s in every scene of [Pluribus],” he said.
Lastly, Shrinking, starring Jason Segel and Harrison Ford, introduced several notable guest stars in its third season, including Michael J. Fox and Jeff Daniels. Romano shared insights into the casting process for Sherry Cola, who plays a patient of Gaby Evans, portrayed by Jessica Williams. “We had over 2,500 submissions, and we were looking specifically AAPI. We have a limited budget, so anyone who came in really wanted to be a part of the show,” Romano noted. “She specifically Zoomed with us and explained how important it was, because she wanted to do something deeper and be able to show that side of herself. She just did it so beautifully.”
