Is it still “casting” if we’re doing reality? Yes. Most definitely. There are Polaroids tacked to the wall for all to see… compatability checks… chemistry checks… height issues… availability issues… geographical issues to consider.
But, what exists in a reality show’s construction that doesn’t factor into populating a scripted show is risk management. My job, for the last couple of weeks anyway, has included a lot of paperwork. For every candidate in whom we’re interested, there are complete background investigations, medical exams, psychological exams, and mounds and mounds of paperwork. In addition to producer callbacks, which actors endure when they’re close to network, these fine folks also have their lives uncovered prior to hitting the set. One guy asked me whether he’d be disqualified if I discovered he is a psychopath.
“Heck no!” I insisted. “Fox just wants to know about it up front. That’s all.”
Hee hee.
I’m having a good time. I have my favorite candidates and I see who the producers favor. I’m happy when that matches up. When it doesn’t… well… I have to remember that I’m not the target market for this type of show and that these execs got where they are by making unpopular but highly-rated choices more often than failing at that task.
The other day, I figured that anyone watching our office from the parking lot would think, “Wow. They must do something really important in there. They show up early, stay really late, don’t take days off or lunch breaks whatsoever, and they’re always stressed out and running around. I bet they’re working to cure cancer!”
And it’s just television.
Reality television.
For the Fox network, for cryin’ out loud.
And I’m laughing all the way to the bank. Or… will be when I get some time off to go there. LOL