Empire TV Show Casting Call | How to Audition for Empire

Empire, the sensational TV show that took the world by storm, is renowned not just for its gripping storylines and dynamic characters but also for providing a platform for fresh talent. If you’ve ever dreamed of being part of this groundbreaking series, now is your chance. This detailed guide will cover all the information you require about the Empire TV show casting call process, from preparing for audition day to what to do following.

About Empire TV show 

Empire TV show stands as a pinnacle of television entertainment, renowned for its compelling storyline, stellar performances, and captivating drama. Since its inception, the show has captured the hearts and minds of audiences globally, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. The American musical drama television series Empire aired on Fox for six seasons between 2015 and 2020. 

Main Cast

• Terrence Howard as Lucious Lyon
• Taraji P. Henson as Cookie Lyon
• Bryshere Y. Gray as Hakeem Lyon
• Jussie Smollett as Jamal Lyon
• Trai Byers as Andre Lyon
• Grace Byers as Anika Calhoun
• Malik Yoba as Vernon Turner (Season 1)
• Kaitlin Doubleday as Rhonda Lyon (Season 1-2, guest in Season 3-4)
• Gabourey Sidibe as Becky Williams (Season 2-present, recurring in Season 1)
• Serayah as Tiana Brown (Season 2-present, recurring in Season 1)
• Morocco Omari as Tariq Cousins (Season 3, recurring in Season 2)
• Bre-Z as Freda Gatz (Season 3, recurring in Season 2)
• Xzibit as Shine Johnson (Season 3-4, recurring in Season 2)
• Nicole Ari Parker as Giselle Barker (Season 5-present, recurring in Season 4)

Episodes

Empire TV Show

Plot

The series follows the Lyon family as they battle for control of Empire Entertainment. Lucious, the aging founder, is diagnosed with a terminal illness and must choose a successor from among his three sons. Meanwhile, his ex-wife, Cookie, returns to reclaim her rightful share of the company. The entertainment show explores themes of family, power, ambition, and the music industry.

Legacy

Empire was a popular and critically acclaimed show known for its diverse cast, catchy music, and dramatic storylines. It helped break barriers in television representation and launched the careers of several actors.

Understanding the Empire TV Show Casting Call Process for Future

Initial Announcement

Empire TV show casting calls are typically announced on various platforms, including official social media channels, casting websites, and industry bulletins. It’s crucial to monitor these sources for the latest updates.

Eligibility and Requirements

Before you consider auditioning, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. It usually includes age requirements, union status (SAG-AFTRA membership), and sometimes specific skills or backgrounds relevant to the character being cast.

To participate in the Empire TV show casting call, aspiring actors and actresses must meet the following criteria:

• Age: Individuals must be over 18 years old.
• Experience: While prior acting experience is preferred, newcomers with raw talent are also encouraged to audition.
• Diversity: The Empire TV show casting call celebrates diversity and welcomes individuals of all ethnicities, backgrounds, and identities.
• Passion: A burning passion for acting and a commitment to excellence are essential.

Submission of Application

Interested candidates must submit an application, which generally includes:

• Headshots: Professional-quality photos are a must.
• Resume: A detailed acting resume highlighting your experience and skills.
• Demo Reel: A short video showcasing your previous work and acting abilities.

Preparation Laying the Foundation for Success

Before stepping into the audition room, thorough preparation is crucial to showcasing your talent and understanding of the show:

• Immerse Yourself in Empire: Watch past episodes to delve into the world of Empire. Analyze the show’s tone, character dynamics, and overall aesthetic. This understanding will allow you to modify your performance to fit the show’s distinct style.
• Decipher the Character: If specific character breakdowns are available, meticulously study them. Understand the character’s personality traits, motivations, and relationships within the story. It will allow you to embody the character authentically during the audition.
• Master Your Monologue: Choose a monologue that aligns with the show’s genre and highlights your acting range. Rehearse it diligently to ensure a polished and convincing performance. Consider recording yourself or performing for friends and family to receive feedback and refine your delivery.
• Sharpen Your Skills: Participating in acting workshops or classes can significantly enhance your skills and provide valuable insights from industry professionals. This understanding will help you to tailor your performance to the show’s unique style.

The Casting Call Moment to Shine

On the day of the audition, expect a structured process designed to assess your suitability for the role:

• Check-In and Registration: Arrive early at the casting venue and complete any necessary registration forms. Punctuality is crucial, as late arrivals might not be accommodated.
• Audition Room Protocol: Enter the audition room confidently, greet the casting directors and other personnel, and follow any instructions provided. Be prepared to deliver your monologue or scene with conviction.
• Performance and Feedback: During the audition, showcase your acting skills by portraying the character authentically. Casting directors may offer feedback or ask questions to gauge your potential for the role.
• Callbacks and Further Auditions: If your performance sparks interest, you might be invited to callbacks or screen tests. It signifies that you are being seriously considered for the role and may involve additional rounds of auditions with other candidates or chemistry reads with potential co-stars.

Navigating the Post-Audition Phase

After the audition, a period of waiting and uncertainty ensues as casting directors make their decisions:

• Stay Patient and Positive: The waiting game can be challenging, but maintaining patience and a positive attitude is crucial. Focus on honing your craft and pursuing other opportunities while awaiting news from the casting team.
• Professional Follow-Up: If you receive a callback or request for additional auditions, respond promptly and professionally with casting directors or your agent. Express gratitude for the chance and confirm your availability for the next steps.
• Continued Improvement: Develop your acting abilities and widen your professional network regardless of the result. Every audition experience provides valuable learning opportunities that contribute to your growth as an actor.

Tips for a Successful Empire TV Show Audition

Be Authentic

Casting directors can spot a fake performance from a mile away. Staying true to yourself and bringing your unique perspective to the role is crucial. Authenticity resonates with the audience and casting directors alike, making your performance more relatable and believable. Avoid mimicking other actors or overacting; instead, focus on delivering a natural and genuine portrayal of the character.

Show Versatility

Empire features a diverse cast of characters. Demonstrating your ability to play a range of emotions and situations can set you apart from other candidates. Versatility means you can handle different types of scenes, whether it’s a dramatic confrontation, a tender moment, or a high-energy musical number. Showcasing your range will prove to the casting directors that you can adapt to various roles and bring depth to your character.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Rehearse your lines and performance multiple times. Consistent practice helps you memorize your lines and better understand the characters. You can check if your body language and facial expressions match the character’s emotions by practicing in front of a mirror. When you practice in front of friends or family, you can videotape yourself so you can get constructive critique and essential insights into your performance. It will allow you to make the necessary improvements.

Stay Calm and Confident

Nerves can undermine even the best-prepared performance. Taking deep breaths and staying calm helps you maintain focus and deliver your lines smoothly. Confidence is essential; it shows that you believe in your abilities and are ready to take on the role. A composed and self-assured demeanor will make a positive impression on the casting directors and increase your chances of success.

Follow Directions

Pay close attention to any instructions given by the casting directors. Whether it’s about how to perform a particular scene or specific guidelines for the audition process, following directions precisely shows that you are professional and easy to work with. Demonstrating your ability to take direction well is crucial, as it indicates that you can effectively collaborate with the directors and other actors during filming. Pay close attention to any instructions given by the casting directors. Following directions precisely shows that you are professional and easy to work with.

What Happens After the Audition?

Initial Review

The casting director and other stakeholders will review all the audition tapes and performances. This process can take time, sometimes weeks, as they may need to see several actors for the same role. During this review, they may narrow down the pool of candidates to a smaller group. This step is critical, as it involves assessing each actor’s suitability for the role based on their performance, look, and overall fit with the show’s existing cast and storyline.

Callbacks

If you’re shortlisted, you might be invited to a callback. It is a second round of auditions where you might perform a different scene, read with other actors, or meet with the director. Callbacks are a positive sign that you’re still in the running for the role, but they don’t guarantee you’ll get it. During callbacks, casting directors are looking for how well you take direction, your chemistry with other actors, and how you embody the character in different scenarios.

Decision and Offer

After considering all the auditions and callbacks, the casting team and producers will make a final decision on who to cast. If you’re chosen, you’ll receive an official offer for the role. The specifics of the agreement, such as your pay, the shooting schedule, and other conditions, will be described in this offer. The offer process involves negotiating any final information and ensuring all parties agree to the terms.

What to Expect

• Silence is not always a bad sign: You may not hear back after the initial audition, even if you did well. It doesn’t necessarily mean you didn’t get the role; it just means the decision-making process is ongoing. Casting directors often have to deliberate extensively, and other factors, such as scheduling and script changes, can also play a role.
• Be patient: Waiting might be challenging but try to keep a positive outlook and focus on other options. It’s important to continue honing your craft and auditioning for different roles. Patience and persistence are essential in the acting industry.
• Follow-up: If you are still waiting to hear back after a reasonable amount of time, you can send a polite follow-up email to the casting director. A brief, courteous message expressing your continued interest and asking for any updates can show your professionalism and dedication without being pushy.

Conclusion

Auditioning for the Empire TV show casting call is a thrilling opportunity for any actor. By understanding the casting process, preparing diligently, and presenting your best self, you increase your chances of landing a role on this iconic show. Stay informed, stay prepared, and seize the opportunity to become part of the Empire’s legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often are Empire TV show casting calls announced?

Empire TV show casting calls are announced as needed, typically aligning with new seasons or particular episodes. For the most recent information, stay tuned to the official outlets.

Do I need to have professional acting experience to audition?

While professional experience can be beneficial, it is only sometimes necessary. Empire is known for discovering new talent, so if you have a passion for acting and meet the role’s requirements, you should definitely audition.

Can I audition if I live outside the United States?

Yes, international actors can audition. However, you may need to manage your own travel and accommodation arrangements if called for an in-person audition.

What should I wear to the audition?

Dress in a way that suggests the character you’re auditioning for without going overboard. Simple, character-appropriate clothing is usually best.