How to Land Netflix Casting Calls in LA: An Actor's Inside Guide
When I looked at life through the camera, I felt like I could finally see it.
–Katherine Howe
How to Land Netflix Casting Calls in LA: An Actor's Inside Guide
Netflix has over 130 active casting calls, auditions, and acting jobs open right now. These auditions for Netflix give actors their best shot at breaking into streaming content.
The story gets better. Netflix wants to break the world record title for most submissions to an online casting call in 24 hours. The competition for Netflix audition opportunities and Los Angeles casting notices is fierce, but opportunities are everywhere. Many Netflix open casting calls welcome actors without previous experience, which makes them perfect starting points for newcomers looking to become an actor.
Can you set yourself apart from thousands of hopefuls who want these same roles? More than 10,000 casting opportunities await on platforms of all types. Success with Netflix casting calls in Los Angeles needs strategy, preparation, and insider knowledge.
This piece will show you how to find, prepare for, and land Netflix roles in LA. We’ll guide you through each step – from building your acting resume to creating standout self-tapes. Your name could soon appear in those famous Netflix credits!
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Understand the Netflix Casting Landscape
“We’re all in this because we love to tell stories, so what makes me remember an actor is an actor who went in to tell the story—not the actor who is there because of the ego. A lot more times, actors are told, ‘This is your time in the room,’ and that’s not my feeling. It’s not their time; it’s the time for the story. It’s their time to bring the story to life. It’s not all about them.” — Carmen Cuba, Casting Director; known for ‘Stranger Things’, ‘The Matrix 4’, ‘Narcos’
You need to know how the Netflix casting process works to succeed in LA’s competitive acting scene.
Types of Netflix productions in LA
Netflix has expanded by a lot in Los Angeles. The streaming giant now holds long-term leases for more than 30 soundstages and over 800,000 square feet of production space. LA serves as home to many Netflix original series like “Never Have I Ever,” “Lincoln Lawyer,” and limited series such as “From Scratch.” Netflix movies filmed here include the sci-fi feature “Rebel Moon” and thriller “The Gray Man”. These productions create opportunities for actors of all types.
Difference between open calls and agency submissions
Netflix doesn’t run its own auditions. They work with outside production companies to handle casting. Most speaking roles need agent representation instead of public casting notices. The Netflix audition process works in two ways:
Netflix casting directors keep a rolodex of their favorite actors. They fill 10-20 slots out of 30-40 available audition spots with these pre-selected talents. They also post casting calls and review submissions – often getting 3,000-5,000 applications within days.
Character breakdowns go to a central service that only agents and managers have access to. So, having representation gives you better chances to land roles.
Where Netflix casting calls are posted
Netflix posts casting notices on several platforms. Netflix also runs a central Netflix casting website for reality shows. You can register your interest even when shows aren’t actively casting.
Actors without representation can use platforms like Actors Access and Casting Networks (USA), Spotlight (UK), and Showcast (Australia) to submit themselves. Production companies and casting directors sometimes post open calls on social media, especially when they need specific skills or traits.
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How to Prepare for Netflix Auditions in LA
Your professional toolkit needs the right preparation to nail auditions for Netflix in LA’s competitive market. Here’s what you need to succeed:
Build a strong acting resume
A standout acting resume starts with the right format. Print it on the back of your headshot and keep it to one page. List your credits by category (film, TV, theater) in order of importance. Add your special skills like accents, musical abilities, or stage combat skills – Netflix casting directors often look for actors with specific talents. Never make up credits because this can ruin your reputation forever. You might want to create different versions of your resume for specific Netflix roles.
Get professional headshots
Casting directors form their first impression of you through your headshots. Quality matters here – professional sessions cost between $400-$1500. Use 8×10 color photos with your name printed on the front. Your clothes should be simple and flattering to your skin tone without stealing focus from your face. Get at least two different “looks” to show your range. Your headshots should look like you at your best, not someone else entirely.
Train with local acting coaches or schools
LA has many acting classes for every skill level. Even seasoned actors take classes to stay sharp. Places like Margie Haber Studio offer on-camera classes that focus on film and TV auditions. These classes are a great way to get networking opportunities, your classmates and teachers might have industry connections.
Understand union vs nonunion roles
Netflix works with SAG-AFTRA and pays actors by a lot more than traditional studios, up to $20,000 per episode for new shows. Know your union status before auditioning: SAG-AFTRA, SAG-AFTRA Eligible, OK-30, or Must Join. Joining costs about $3,000 in initiation fees. Union membership gives you key benefits like residual payments, health insurance, pension plans, and workplace protections. Just note that once you join, you usually can’t work non-union jobs.
Submitting to Netflix Casting Calls
You need to know where to look for opportunities and how to present yourself when applying to Netflix productions.
How to find Netflix casting calls in Los Angeles
Netflix posts casting notices on several trusted platforms. Backstage currently lists over 130 Netflix jobs across 25 productions. The streaming giant runs a central Netflix casting website for reality shows where you can sign up even when shows aren’t casting. Most major roles are only available through talent agents with access to private casting databases. Actors without representation can self-submit for smaller roles through Actors Access and Casting Networks. Production companies sometimes post open calls on social media when they need specific talents.
Creating a standout self-tape
A self-tape gives casting directors their first look at you. Good lighting, clear audio, and a neutral background are essential. You don’t need expensive gear, but your recording must be crystal clear. Record in horizontal mode and frame yourself from mid-chest to just above your head. Name your files properly (e.g., “Firstname_Lastname_Role_Project.mp4”). Match your performance style to the show’s tone. Reading with another person will make your performance stronger.
Following submission instructions carefully
Each casting office wants something specific. The casting notice contains vital details you must follow exactly. Your performance won’t matter if you miss any submission guidelines. Watch for file naming rules, slate requirements, and deadlines. Netflix productions often need specific framing, backdrop colors, or extra materials – so format your audition exactly as asked.
Tips for submitting to Netflix open casting calls
Reality shows like “Squid Game: The Challenge” take submissions through Netflix Reality’s website. Keep your special skills updated on online profiles – casting directors search databases for specific talents. Reading for casting sessions helps you build connections. Background work and industry events let you meet people working on Netflix productions.
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What Happens After You Submit
The waiting begins right after you submit your self-tape or application. A clear understanding of the post-submission process for Netflix audition opportunities will help you set realistic expectations.
How callbacks and second rounds work
Your performance catches the casting team’s attention when you receive a callback. The second-round auditions bring more detailed scrutiny as directors assess your acting range and your response to direction. You’ll likely perform your original audition material with some new variations. Chemistry checks might require you to read scenes with potential costars.
What to expect in a live or Zoom audition
Zoom callbacks can last 30+ minutes when things go smoothly. These sessions challenge you to perform scenes in 3-4 different ways to showcase your versatility. A successful self-tape might lead to travel requests for in-person callbacks with producers and directors.
How to follow up professionally
A brief thank-you note works best within 24 hours if you have direct contact with casting. The next step is to wait at least two weeks before a gentle follow-up. Your communication should stay warm and concise to show appreciation without seeming desperate.
Staying ready for last-minute opportunities
Netflix productions run on tight schedules. In fact, you might get very little notice for an audition or booking. The best approach is to keep pursuing other opportunities since response times vary significantly between productions.
Key Takeaways
Landing Netflix roles in LA requires strategic preparation and understanding of the industry landscape. Here are the essential Netflix audition tips every aspiring actor needs to know:
- Professional representation is crucial – Most Netflix speaking roles require agent/manager access to private casting databases, making representation your top priority.
- Invest in quality fundamentals – Professional headshots ($400-$1500), polished one-page resumes, and ongoing acting training are non-negotiable investments for success.
- Follow submission instructions precisely – Casting directors eliminate talented actors daily for failing to follow guidelines; meticulous attention to detail is essential.
- Create standout self-tapes – Use proper lighting, clear audio, horizontal framing, and correct file naming to make strong first impressions.
- Stay consistently prepared – Netflix operates on tight schedules with last-minute opportunities; maintain readiness while pursuing multiple casting platforms simultaneously.
The path to Netflix success demands both persistence and professionalism. With over 130 active casting calls and expanding LA production facilities, opportunities exist for prepared actors who understand the system and execute each step strategically.
FAQs
Netflix casting calls can be found on platforms like Backstage, Actors Access, and Casting Networks. Netflix also has a centralized Netflix casting website for reality shows. However, many significant roles are only accessible through talent agents who have access to private casting databases.
While it’s possible to submit for some roles without an agent, having representation significantly increases your chances. Most speaking roles (lead, supporting, or recurring) typically require agent representation. Agents have access to character breakdowns that aren’t publicly available.
Netflix generally pays actors more than traditional studios. For newly launched shows, actors can earn up to $20,000 per episode. However, exact pay varies depending on the role, the actor’s experience, and the specific production.
Your acting resume should be one page, printed on the back of your headshot. Include your credits organized by category (film, TV, theater) in order of importance. Highlight special skills like accents or musical abilities. Never fabricate credits, as dishonesty can damage your reputation.
For a standout self-tape, ensure good lighting, clear audio, and a neutral background. Record horizontally and frame yourself from mid-chest to just above your head. Label your files correctly (e.g., “Firstname_Lastname_Role_Project.mp4”). Tailor your performance to match the show’s tone and consider having a live reader to elevate your performance quality.
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Ready to Get Cast in Netflix?
Getting into Netflix productions through LA casting calls takes persistence and smart preparation. The competition is tough, but you can boost your chances of success with good planning and the right approach.
You’ll need professional representation to land Netflix roles. Make getting an agent your top priority while you build your acting skills. On top of that, you should get quality headshots, create a strong resume, and keep training with respected coaches.
Finding real casting notices takes watchfulness on several platforms. Backstage, Actors Access, and Casting Networks are great ways to get opportunities, while Netflix’s reality show hub lets you submit directly for unscripted content. Casting directors drop talented actors every day just because they don’t follow guidelines, so stick to the submission rules carefully.
Your self-tape quality can make or break your chances. You should have good lighting, clear audio, and the right framing before you submit. After submission, stay professional but don’t seem desperate. Send a quick thank-you note if it fits, then focus on your next chance.
The path to Netflix success rarely follows a set timeline. Some actors get callbacks in days while others wait weeks to hear back. Either way, staying prepared means you’ll be ready when unexpected chances pop up.
Netflix acting can open doors to professional acting careers. Good preparation, smart submissions, and steady networking will put you in the best position in this competitive field. Your Netflix credit is waiting – time to get ready!
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