The popular TV show “Empire” captivated audiences with its dramatic portrayal of the music industry’s ups and downs. Produced by Lee Daniels and Danny Strong, this American musical drama television series aired on Fox from January 7, 2015, to 2020, April 21. With its intense storylines, powerful performances, and gripping music, “Empire” has left a significant mark on television history.
Whether you’re an aspiring performer or just a fan of the show interested about how casting calls work, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information about casting calls for “Empire.” From the show’s background to the casting process and tips for aspiring actors, we’ve got everything covered.
Background of “Empire”
Before diving into the casting call details, it’s essential to understand the show’s premise and impact. “Empire” follows the Lyon family, who run a successful music and entertainment company called Empire Entertainment. The story revolves around the family’s power struggles, personal conflicts, and the challenges they face in the cutthroat music industry.
Key Characters
| Character | Actor | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lucious Lyon | Terrence Howard | The ambitious and ruthless head of Empire Entertainment, diagnosed with ALS. |
| Cookie Lyon | Taraji P. Henson | Lucious’s ex-wife, who returns from prison to reclaim her share of the company. |
| Andre Lyon | Trai Byers | The eldest son, who struggles with bipolar disorder and his position in the family business. |
| Jamal Lyon | Jussie Smollett | The middle son, a talented musician who faces challenges due to his sexuality. |
| Hakeem Lyon | Bryshere Y. Gray | The youngest son, a rapper with a rebellious streak. |
| Rhonda Lyon | Kaitlin Doubleday | Andre’s wife, who becomes entangled in the Lyon family’s struggles. |
| Angelo Dubois | Taye Diggs | A politician and Cookie’s former lover. |
| Anika Calhoun | Grace Byers | Hakeem’s former girlfriend and a scheming figure in the Empire world. |
The Importance of Casting Rings
Casting calls are an integral part of the entertainment industry. They offer opportunities for actors to audition for roles in films, TV shows, commercials, and theater productions. For “Empire,” casting calls played a crucial role in assembling a diverse and talented cast that brought the show’s characters to life.
The Casting Process for “Empire”
Initial Casting
The initial casting process for “Empire” involved finding the right actors to portray the show’s main characters. Casting directors Lee Daniels and Leah Daniels-Butler conducted extensive auditions to find actors who could embody the complex personalities and emotions of the Lyon family members.
Open Casting Calls
In addition to initial casting, “Empire” held open casting calls to find new talent. Open casting calls are auditions that anyone can attend, providing opportunities for aspiring actors to showcase their skills. These calls were advertised through various channels, including social media, casting websites, and industry publications.
Role-Specific Auditions
For specific roles, the casting team held role-specific auditions. These auditions targeted actors with particular skills or characteristics needed for certain characters. For example, casting calls for musicians, dancers, and actors with specific looks were conducted to find the right fit for supporting and guest roles.
Callbacks
After initial auditions, selected actors were invited for callbacks. Callbacks are second-round auditions where actors are asked to perform specific scenes or tasks to further evaluate their suitability for the role. For “Empire,” callbacks involved chemistry tests with other cast members to ensure on-screen compatibility.
Virtual Auditions
The COVID-19 pandemic obtained powerful differences to the casting process for many TV shows, including “Empire.” In-person auditions were limited, and casting directors had to adapt to new methods to find talent.
Auditioning During a Pandemic
Virtual Auditions
Virtual auditions became the norm during the pandemic. Actors were required to submit self-taped auditions or participate in live video auditions. This shift allowed casting directors to continue their work while ensuring the safety of all involved.
Adapting to Technology
The use of technology in the casting process required both actors and casting directors to adapt quickly. Actors needed to ensure they had the necessary equipment and skills to perform well in virtual auditions. Casting directors had to find new ways to evaluate performances without the benefit of in-person interactions.
Maintaining Quality
Despite the challenges, the casting team for “Empire” maintained the quality of their selections. The commitment to finding the right talent remained unchanged, and the virtual format allowed for a broader reach, potentially discovering talent from different locations.
How to Prepare for an “Empire” Casting Call
Research the Show
Before attending an “Empire” casting call, it’s essential to research the show thoroughly. Watch episodes to understand the characters, storylines, and overall tone of the series. Familiarize yourself with the Lyon family dynamics and the music industry backdrop.
Understand the Role
If you are auditioning for a specific role, study the character in-depth. Analyze their personality, motivations, and relationships with other characters. This understanding will help you produce a more faithful and effective performance during your audition.
Practice Your Craft
Prepare monologues, scenes, or songs that highlight your acting, singing, or musical talents. Practice your performance to ensure you can deliver it confidently and flawlessly. Consider working with an acting coach or taking acting classes to refine your skills.
Dress Properly
Dress in a way that reflects the nature you are auditioning for, but avoid modeling outfits. Your attire should be comfortable and suitable for the role. For example, if you are auditioning for a musician, you might wear stylish but casual clothing.
Bring Necessary Materials
Bring a headshot, resume, and any other required materials to the audition. Your headshot should be a professional photo that clearly shows your face, and your resume should highlight your acting experience and relevant skills.
Tips for a Successful Audition
Be Confident
Confidence is key during auditions. Believe in your abilities and approach the audition with a positive mindset. Confidence will help you perform better and make a lasting impression on the casting directors.
Be Professional
Arrive on time, be polite, and follow instructions. Professionalism is crucial in the entertainment industry, and casting directors appreciate actors who conduct themselves with respect and courtesy.
Show Your Unique Talent
While it’s essential to stay true to the character, don’t be afraid to bring your unique flair to the performance. Show the casting directors what makes you stand out and why you are the perfect fit for the role.
Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Casting calls can be unpredictable, and you might be asked to perform additional tasks or scenes. Stay flexible and open to direction. Adaptability is a valuable trait that casting directors look for in actors.
Stay Positivzze
Even if you don’t get the role, stay positive and view the audition as a learning experience. Each audition is an opportunity to improve your skills and gain exposure in the industry.
Notable Casting Calls for “Empire”
Finding Hakeem Lyon
The search for Hakeem Lyon was one of the most notable casting calls for “Empire.” The character required a young actor with strong rapping skills and a rebellious attitude. After an extensive search, Bryshere Y. Gray, also known as Yazz the Greatest, was cast as Hakeem. His impressive audition and natural talent made him the perfect fit for the role.
Casting for Guest Stars
“Empire” featured numerous guest stars throughout its run, including high-profile musicians and actors. Casting calls for guest stars were often specific to the episode’s storyline and required actors with particular skills or characteristics. Notable guest stars included Mariah Carey, Snoop Dogg, and Alicia Keys.
The Impact of “Empire” on Aspiring Actors
“Empire” provided a significant platform for aspiring actors to showcase their talents. The show’s popularity and diverse cast opened doors for many new actors in the industry. Landing a role on “Empire” could be a career-defining opportunity, leading to more significant roles and increased visibility.
Launching Careers
Several actors on “Empire” saw their careers take off after being cast in the show. For example, Jussie Smollett, who played Jamal Lyon, gained widespread recognition and furthered his career in music and acting. The show’s success helped him secure additional roles and opportunities in the industry.
Breaking Stereotypes
“Empire” was praised for its diverse casting and portrayal of complex characters from various backgrounds. The show’s commitment to diversity helped break stereotypes and provided representation for underrepresented groups in the entertainment industry. This positive impact extended to the casting process, encouraging more inclusivity in future projects.
Behind the Scenes: The Casting Team
The casting team for “Empire” played a crucial role in the show’s success. Led by Lee Daniels and Leah Daniels-Butler, the team worked tirelessly to find the right actors for each role. Their dedication and keen eye for talent ensured that “Empire” had a cast that could deliver powerful and compelling performances.
Lee Daniels
As a co-creator of “Empire,” Lee Daniels was deeply involved in the casting process. Known for his work on films like “Precious” and “The Butler,” Daniels brought his expertise and vision to the show. His involvement in casting decisions helped shape the dynamic and talented cast of “Empire.”
Leah Daniels-Butler
Leah Daniels-Butler, Lee Daniels’s sister, served as the casting director for “Empire.” With a background in casting for both film and television, she brought her extensive experience to the project. Leah’s ability to identify and nurture talent was instrumental in assembling the show’s diverse and talented cast.
Empire TV Show Episode Guide
| Season | Episode | Title | Main Characters | Synopsis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Pilot | Lucious Lyon, Cookie Lyon, Jamal Lyon | The series premiere introduces the Lyon family and their struggles. |
| 1 | 10 | Sins of the Father | Lucious Lyon, Andre Lyon, Hakeem Lyon | The Lyon family faces internal conflicts and power struggles. |
| 2 | 1 | The Devils Are Here | Lucious Lyon, Cookie Lyon, Jamal Lyon | The Lyons are dealing with the fallout from a major revelation. |
| 2 | 10 | The Tameness of a Wolf | Hakeem Lyon, Jamal Lyon, Rhonda Lyon | Key events unfold as the Lyon family navigates their personal and professional lives. |
| 3 | 1 | Light in Darkness | Lucious Lyon, Jamal Lyon, Andre Lyon | The Lyons deal with new challenges as they continue to expand Empire Entertainment. |
| 3 | 10 | The Black Baby | Cookie Lyon, Hakeem Lyon, Jamal Lyon | Major family secrets come to light, affecting everyone involved. |
| 4 | 1 | Narcissus | Lucious Lyon, Jamal Lyon, Cookie Lyon | The Lyon family’s empire faces new threats and opportunities. |
| 4 | 10 | The Empire | Lucious Lyon, Hakeem Lyon, Andre Lyon | The season finale brings dramatic changes and resolutions for the Lyon family. |
Memorable Auditions and Scenes
Taraji P. Henson’s Audition for Cookie Lyon
Taraji P. Henson’s audition for the role of Cookie Lyon is legendary. Henson brought a fierce and unapologetic energy to the character, capturing the essence of Cookie’s personality. Her audition left a lasting impression on the casting team and secured her the iconic role.
Bryshere Y. Gray’s Rapping Skills
During his audition, Bryshere Y. Gray showcased his rapping skills, impressing the casting team with his talent and stage presence. His performance demonstrated that he was the perfect fit for Hakeem Lyon, a character deeply involved in the music industry.
Chemistry Tests
Chemistry tests were a vital part of the casting process for “Empire.” Actors were paired with potential co-stars to assess their on-screen chemistry. These tests ensured that the relationships between characters felt authentic and believable, contributing to the show’s success.
Future Opportunities in the Industry
The success of “Empire” and its casting process has paved the way for future opportunities in the entertainment industry. Aspiring actors can take inspiration from the show’s casting journey and apply these lessons to their own careers.
Staying Informed
Keeping up with industry news and casting calls is essential for aspiring actors. Websites, social media, and industry publications often post casting notices for new projects. Staying informed about these opportunities increases the chances of landing auditions and roles.
Building a Network
Networking is a important aspect of the entertainment enterprise. Building relationships with releasing leaders, agents, and other drive professionals can open doors to new options. Attending industry events, workshops, and acting classes can help expand your network.
Continuous Improvement
The journey to becoming a successful actor involves continuous improvement. Regularly honing your craft, seeking feedback, and learning new skills are vital steps in this process. Whether it’s taking acting classes, working with coaches, or participating in community theater, every effort contributes to growth as an actor.
Conclusion
The casting call process for “Empire” was a fascinating and integral part of the show’s success. From initial casting to open calls and role-specific auditions, the journey to finding the right talent was thorough and meticulous. Aspiring actors can learn valuable lessons from this process, such as the importance of preparation, confidence, and professionalism.
“Empire” not only provided a platform for talented actors but also made a significant impact on the entertainment industry by promoting diversity and inclusivity. The show’s legacy continues to inspire and pave the way for future opportunities in television and film.
Whether you’re an aspiring actor or a fan of the show, understanding the casting process gives you a deeper appreciation for the hard work and dedication that goes into bringing a TV series to life. So, the next time you watch “Empire,” remember the incredible journey behind each character and the talented individuals who brought them to the screen.
