Empire Casting Calls & Auditions
What fuels the insatiable hunger for a glimpse behind the curtain of television production? The allure of witnessing creativity firsthand, of being a part of the magic that brings stories to life, is undeniable. And when it comes to a show as captivating as Empire, that allure becomes magnetic.
From the bustling streets of Chicago to the opulent world of Empire Entertainment, the hit Fox series Empire has consistently captivated audiences with its blend of family drama, musical brilliance, and cutthroat ambition. The show, starring Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson, offered a unique peek into the world of hip-hop royalty, exploring the power struggles, betrayals, and triumphs within the Lyon family. And for those eager to be a part of that world, the casting calls offered a golden opportunity. Over the years, numerous casting calls went out, seeking talent for a variety of roles from Cookies driver and Empire Entertainment employees to hospital patients and prison visitors. These calls, often targeted towards local Chicago talent, highlighted the significant role the city played in the shows production. Filming often took place in various Chicago locations, including Joliet, requiring those interested to have reliable transportation. Memorable scenes, like the big carnival and outdoor concert featuring the Empire cast, further cemented the shows connection to the city. Even aspiring voice actors had a chance to contribute, with opportunities for voiceover roles frequently advertised.
| Name | Terrence Howard |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | March 11, 1969 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Career | Actor, singer-songwriter, record producer |
| Notable Roles | Lucious Lyon in Empire, James Rhodes in Iron Man, Djay in Hustle & Flow |
| Reference | IMDb |
Casting notices revealed intriguing details about upcoming seasons. For instance, Season 3 saw casting calls for family members, caseworkers, and security guards, hinting at new storylines and character developments. These opportunities extended beyond extras, with casting directors actively seeking teenage African American boys for speaking roles and women in their early 20s for featured parts. The shows commitment to showcasing diverse talent was evident in its consistent search for actors, models, and individuals from all walks of life. The detailed casting calls, often specifying filming dates and locations, provided aspiring actors with crucial information to help them prepare and participate.
Beyond the main cast, Empire also provided a platform for other talented actors. One memorable casting choice was Domenick Lombardozzi, known for his role as Herc in The Wire, who played Al Capones brother in HBOs Boardwalk Empire. This casting decision sparked discussions and observations, with some noting the height difference between Lombardozzi and Stephen Graham, who portrayed Al Capone. Such details underscored the meticulous attention to casting and character portrayal in these series.
The fervor surrounding Empire wasn't limited to the live-action series. Even independent content creators drew inspiration from the show. One such creator developed an animatic web series titled Empire, planned for release on the Wise Group Productions' YouTube channel. This project, described as a story about navigating the complexities of adulthood and learning to trust ones instinct, showcased the enduring influence of the Empire brand. The casting call for this animated project offered yet another avenue for creative individuals to participate in the Empire universe.
| Season | Key Casting Calls | Filming Location |
|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | Various roles, including extras | Chicago, Illinois |
| Season 2 | Recurring roles | Chicago, Illinois |
| Season 3 | Family members, case workers, speaking roles | Chicago, Illinois |
The enduring popularity of Empire prompted fans and aspiring actors to constantly seek out the latest casting calls, news, and information related to the show. Resources like Project Casting became invaluable tools for those looking to stay informed and potentially become a part of the Empire phenomenon. Even beyond the main series, the Empire name continued to resonate. A low-budget short film shot in Inland Empire, California, about two skaters, highlighted the broad reach of the name and its association with creative endeavors. This project, though unrelated to the Fox series, demonstrated the enduring power of the Empire moniker.
The influence of Empire extended beyond the realm of television and film, inspiring narratives in other mediums. One story, centered around a character whose father retires after an expedition in Iceland, explored themes of adventure and legacy. This characters journey to Atlantis and subsequent quest for a giant crystal mirrored the high-stakes drama and ambition that defined the Empire series. The story's focus on navigating complex situations and making difficult choices echoed the core themes that resonated with Empires audience.
"Empire" Casting in Chicago
Casting Call for Fox “Empire” Season 2 Recurring / Core Extras in
Star Wars Shadows of the Empire Casting Call YouTube
