Empire Casting Call: How to Apply and Audition Tips

The Empire casting call is a structured opportunity for actors, extras, and specialty performers to audition for roles in the hit television series. These calls are organized by professional casting directors and production companies to ensure that each role is filled with the right talent. Whether you are a seasoned actor or a newcomer, understanding the casting process and preparing the necessary materials increases your chances of being selected.

Participating in an Empire casting call not only provides potential on-screen exposure but also allows aspiring actors to gain practical experience and build professional credits. From preparing headshots and resumes to submitting applications through verified portals, each step is designed to ensure a fair and organized selection process. Staying updated with official announcements and following the proper application procedures is essential for anyone serious about pursuing a role.

What Is the Empire Casting Call?

The Empire casting call is the official audition and hiring process used to select actors, extras, and specialty performers for the TV production.

• Managed through casting directors and production partners

• Used to fill principal roles, supporting roles, and background talent

• Conducted via online submissions, in-person auditions, or self-tapes

• Announced publicly or through talent representation networks

It functions like a structured recruitment system for on-screen talent.

Is Empire Currently Holding Casting Calls?

Casting availability depends on production status and active filming schedules.

• Check whether the show is in production or pre-production

• Review verified casting platforms for active listings

• Look for location-based calls tied to filming cities

• Confirm posting dates to avoid expired opportunities

If no active listings appear, it typically means production is paused or completed.

What Types of Roles Are Typically Available?

Most casting calls include a mix of principal, supporting, and background roles.

• Lead and recurring characters

• Day players and guest appearances

• Non-speaking background actors

• Specialty performers such as musicians or dancers

Role types vary depending on the script and episode requirements.

Who Organizes the Casting Process?

The casting process is organized by professional casting directors hired by the production company.

• Casting agencies manage submissions and screening

• Producers approve final selections

• Directors may attend callbacks

• Union guidelines may influence selection procedures

Actors rarely submit directly to producers without going through casting channels.

How the Empire Casting Process Works

The casting process follows a structured evaluation system from submission to final selection.

• Role breakdown is published

• Submissions are reviewed

• Shortlisted candidates receive callbacks

• Final approval is granted by production leadership

Each step is documented and coordinated professionally.

Where Casting Calls Are Announced

Casting calls are announced through industry-recognized platforms and agency networks.

• Online casting websites

• Talent agency mailing lists

• Production company announcements

• Verified social media pages

Reliable listings include role details, pay rates, and submission instructions.

Step-by-Step Application Process

The application process requires careful submission of required materials.

1. Review the role description thoroughly

2. Prepare headshot and resume

3. Submit via the specified portal or email

4. Follow formatting and labeling instructions exactly

Incomplete or incorrectly labeled submissions are often rejected.

What Happens After You Submit

After submission, casting teams screen applications against role criteria.

• Review of headshots and experience

• Assessment of physical fit and performance background

• Shortlisting for auditions or self-tapes

• Notification only if selected

No response usually means the application was not shortlisted.

Callback and Final Selection Process

Callbacks are conducted to evaluate shortlisted candidates more closely.

• In-person or virtual audition

• Script reading or improvisation

• Directional adjustments from casting team

• Final decision by producers

Contract offers follow once selection is confirmed.

Eligibility Requirements for Empire Auditions

Eligibility requirements define who can legally and professionally participate.

• Age range must match character description

• Work authorization must be valid

• Availability must align with filming schedule

• Required documents must be submitted

Failure to meet eligibility leads to automatic disqualification.

Age and Experience Requirements

Age must align with the character breakdown provided in the casting notice.

• Some roles require professional acting credits

• Background roles may not require prior experience

• Child roles require guardian approval

• Union roles may require membership

Experience increases selection probability but is not always mandatory.

Location and Work Authorization Rules

Applicants must be legally permitted to work in the filming location.

• Valid government identification

• Work permits for minors

• Visa or citizenship documentation if required

• Availability for local hire roles

Productions typically avoid covering relocation costs for extras.

Headshots, Resume, and Portfolio Standards

Professional materials are mandatory for serious consideration.

• Recent, high-resolution headshot

• Clearly formatted acting resume

• Credits listed in reverse chronological order

• Demo reel link if requested

Outdated or unprofessional materials reduce credibility.

Types of Roles in Empire Casting Calls

Roles are categorized based on screen time, dialogue, and narrative importance.

• Principal roles drive storylines

• Supporting roles complement main characters

• Extras create environmental realism

• Specialty talent fulfills scripted needs

Each category has different pay and expectations.

Lead and Supporting Roles

Lead and supporting roles involve scripted dialogue and character development.

• Require auditions and callbacks

• Often require acting experience

• Higher compensation levels

• May require multi-episode availability

These roles are highly competitive.

Background Actors and Extras

Extras appear in scenes without significant dialogue.

• Provide realism to settings

• Typically hired locally

• Paid daily rates

• Fewer performance requirements

Reliability and availability are key selection factors.

Featured Extras and Specialty Talent

Featured extras perform specific visible tasks on screen.

• Musicians, dancers, athletes

• Appear in close-up shots

• May receive higher compensation than standard extras

• Often require skill verification

Special skills increase selection probability.

Child and Teen Roles

Minor roles require legal compliance and parental oversight.

• Work permits required

• Limited working hours

• Guardian presence on set

• Schooling compliance during filming

Productions follow strict labor regulations.

Where to Find Official Empire Casting Call Updates

Official updates are published through verified entertainment industry channels.

• Casting platforms

• Agency networks

• Production announcements

• Industry trade publications

Always confirm authenticity before applying.

Verified Casting Websites and Portals

Reputable casting platforms list legitimate production opportunities.

• Established entertainment job boards

• Union-affiliated directories

• Agency submission portals

• Professional networking platforms

Avoid sites requiring upfront “guaranteed audition” fees.

Production Company Announcements

Production companies sometimes release casting updates directly.

• Official websites

• Verified press releases

• Social media announcements

• Industry newsletters

Check posting dates to confirm relevance.

Avoiding Fake Casting Listings

Fake listings often request payment or sensitive data.

• No legitimate casting call charges audition fees

• Verify contact email domains

• Avoid requests for banking information

• Cross-check listings across multiple platforms

When uncertain, confirm with recognized casting agencies.

How to Prepare for an Empire Audition

Preparation requires professional materials and performance readiness.

• Updated resume

• Professional headshot

• Script familiarity

• Clear understanding of character breakdown

Preparation reduces performance errors.

Creating a Professional Acting Resume

An acting resume summarizes training and performance credits.

• List film, TV, theater credits

• Include training and workshops

• Add special skills

• Keep formatting clean and one page

Avoid exaggerating or falsifying credits.

Getting High-Quality Headshots

Headshots must accurately reflect current appearance.

• Neutral background

• Professional lighting

• Minimal heavy editing

• Updated within the last 1–2 years

Casting teams prioritize clarity and authenticity.

Preparing Monologues or Audition Scripts

Preparation should match the tone of the role.

• Memorize lines fully

• Practice emotional range

• Rehearse with feedback

• Keep performance natural

Overacting reduces authenticity.

On-Camera and Self-Tape Tips

Self-tapes must meet professional standards.

• Stable camera setup

• Clear audio quality

• Neutral background

• Follow framing instructions

Submit before deadlines to avoid disqualification.

Payment, Contracts, and Working Conditions

Compensation and terms depend on role type and union status.

• Daily or weekly pay rates

• Contract outlining usage rights

• Defined filming hours

• Overtime provisions

All terms are documented before filming begins.

Typical Pay Rates for Extras and Actors

Pay varies by production scale and union agreements.

• Background actors typically paid daily rates

• Principal actors negotiate contracts

• Overtime compensated separately

• Union scale determines minimum pay

Rates fluctuate based on location and production budget.

Union vs. Non-Union Roles

Union roles follow collective bargaining agreements.

• Set minimum pay rates

• Regulated working hours

• Health and pension contributions

• Strict compliance standards

Non-union roles may offer more flexibility but fewer protections.

Filming Locations and Time Commitments

Filming schedules require availability and punctuality.

• Early call times

• Long shooting days

• Multiple takes

• Schedule adjustments

Availability is a critical hiring factor.

Benefits of Participating in Casting Calls

Casting participation can strengthen professional standing.

• Exposure to industry professionals

• Resume development

• On-set experience

• Networking opportunities

Even small roles contribute to career growth.

Career Exposure and Networking

Working on set creates industry connections.

• Meet casting directors

• Connect with producers

• Build peer relationships

• Gain referrals

Professional conduct impacts future opportunities.

Building Acting Credits

Credits validate professional experience.

• Appear in industry databases

• Enhance resume strength

• Improve representation prospects

• Increase audition invitations

Consistent work builds credibility.

Gaining On-Set Experience

On-set experience improves performance discipline.

• Understand production workflow

• Follow direction effectively

• Adapt to technical setups

• Develop camera awareness

Experience increases professionalism.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

Common mistakes reduce selection chances.

• Incomplete submissions

• Ignoring instructions

• Late responses

• Misrepresentation

Professional discipline matters.

Submitting Incomplete Applications

Incomplete materials often result in automatic rejection.

• Missing headshots

• Incorrect file labeling

• No contact details

• Ignored submission format

Double-check before sending.

Ignoring Role Requirements

Ignoring criteria wastes time and harms credibility.

• Wrong age range

• Incorrect location

• Unavailable schedule

• Missing required skills

Apply only when qualified.

Falling for Casting Scams

Scams target inexperienced applicants.

• Requests for payment

• Promises of guaranteed roles

• Vague production details

• Unverified contacts

Research before responding.

Tools and Resources for Aspiring Actors

Professional tools improve visibility and readiness.

• Casting platforms

• Talent agencies

• Training institutions

• Portfolio tools

Use reputable services only.

Casting Platforms and Talent Agencies

Platforms connect actors with production teams.

• Online submission portals

• Agency representation

• Industry directories

• Networking databases

Agencies negotiate contracts on behalf of talent.

Acting Workshops and Training Programs

Training enhances performance quality.

• Scene study classes

• Voice coaching

• On-camera technique workshops

• Audition preparation courses

Ongoing training improves competitiveness.

Portfolio and Demo Reel Tools

A demo reel showcases performance ability.

• Short edited clips

• Clear audio

• Diverse emotional range

• Professionally formatted

Keep reels concise and updated.

Empire Casting Call vs. Other TV Show Auditions

Casting processes differ based on production scale and genre.

• Budget size impacts pay

• Union involvement varies

• Role availability fluctuates

• Competition intensity changes

Understanding differences helps set expectations.

Differences in Casting Scale

Large productions attract more applicants.

• Wider national exposure

• Higher submission volume

• More structured screening

• Formalized callback process

Smaller shows may have streamlined procedures.

Competition Level Comparison

Competition depends on role type.

• Lead roles attract experienced actors

• Extras face moderate competition

• Specialty roles depend on skill rarity

• Location affects applicant pool

Preparation determines advantage.

Regional vs. National Casting Opportunities

Regional casting favors local talent.

• Reduced travel costs

• Local hire preference

• Shorter submission windows

• Faster turnaround

National casting broadens eligibility.

Empire Casting Call Checklist Before You Apply

A checklist ensures readiness and compliance.

• Confirm eligibility

• Prepare materials

• Verify listing authenticity

• Meet submission deadline

Organization improves success rate.

Documents and Materials to Prepare

Prepare all required documents in advance.

• Updated headshot

• Acting resume

• Demo reel link

• Identification if requested

Keep digital copies accessible.

Application Submission Review Checklist

Review submission before sending.

• Correct file names

• Accurate contact information

• Role reference included

• Deadline confirmed

Final review prevents avoidable errors.

Follow-Up and Communication Steps

Follow-up should be professional and limited.

• Wait for response window

• Avoid repeated messages

• Monitor email regularly

• Keep availability updated

Professional communication supports credibility.

FAQs

How do I apply for an Empire casting call?

You apply by submitting your headshot, acting resume, and any required demo reels through the official casting platform or portal listed in the casting announcement. Follow all instructions carefully and meet the deadline to be considered.

Is previous acting experience necessary?

Experience is usually required for principal roles, but background or extra roles may accept applicants without prior acting credits. Training and workshops can improve your chances.

Are Empire casting calls free to submit?

Yes. Legitimate casting calls, including the Empire casting call, do not charge any application or audition fees. Any request for payment is a red flag and should be avoided.

Can minors participate in auditions?

Yes, but child and teen roles require work permits, guardian presence on set, and adherence to labor laws regarding hours and schooling during filming.

How can I tell if a casting call is legitimate?

Verify the production company, check official casting platforms, and ensure no payment or sensitive financial information is requested. Legitimate calls provide clear instructions and verified contacts.