A Guide to Landing a Role in “Stranger Things”

03/04/2024

The Final Chapter Awaits:

“Stranger Things,” Netflix’s captivating sci-fi series, is gearing up for its thrilling conclusion with Season 5 currently in production. The show, renowned for launching the careers of its young stars, continues to captivate audiences worldwide. As aspiring actors, many wonder: how can I become part of this phenomenal phenomenon? This comprehensive guide delves into the secrets of securing a role in the final season of “Stranger Things.”

Unraveling the Mystery:

  1. A Glimpse into Hawkins: Set in the 1980s, “Stranger Things” follows a group of courageous kids in Hawkins, Indiana, as they confront the horrors of the Upside Down, a parallel dimension harboring monstrous creatures. Their journey involves battling government conspiracies, psychic experiments, and the ever-present threat of interdimensional beings.

  2. A Farewell Season: Season 5 marks the final chapter of “Stranger Things.” While the cast remains largely unchanged, the addition of seasoned actress Linda Hamilton signifies the show’s commitment to delivering a powerful conclusion.

  3. Casting the Spell: Carmen Cuba, the show’s casting director, emphasizes authenticity and individuality. In an interview, she explained, “The original cast members are all unique individuals. None of them are interchangeable, energetically or emotionally.” This philosophy continues to guide the casting process for the final season.

The Road to Hawkins:

  1. Filming Underway: Production for Season 5 commenced in early January 2024, with the first episode titled “Chapter One: The Crawl.” While filming is primarily in Atlanta, Georgia, opportunities exist for both background and speaking roles.

  2. Seeking New Faces: Although active casting calls for Season 5 are currently unavailable, keep an eye on Backstage’s listing of sci-fi and similar projects for potential future opportunities. Additionally, “Stranger Things” has a history of utilizing background actors through open calls, so checking Backstage’s casting section is recommended.

  3. Representation Matters: For larger speaking roles, having an agent is crucial. If you don’t currently have representation, Backstage offers helpful resources on securing an agent.

The Master of Ceremonies:

Carmen Cuba, based in Los Angeles, oversees the casting process for “Stranger Things.” Her extensive experience includes projects like “Devs,” “Mrs. America,” and “The Florida Project.”

Words from the Wise:

Here are valuable insights from the show’s casting director and cast members to help you prepare for your audition:

  • Go the Extra Mile: Showcase your dedication by preparing additional scenes or material beyond what is explicitly requested.
  • Authenticity is Key: Avoid exaggerated performances and focus on embodying the character with genuine emotion and depth.
  • Embrace the Unexpected: Be prepared to adapt to directions and demonstrate your ability to think on your feet during the audition.
  • Experience Matters: While not always a requirement, having previous acting credits can be beneficial, especially for child actors.

Beyond the Final Season:

While “Stranger Things” comes to an end, the Duffer Brothers, the show’s creators, have established their own production company, Upside Down Pictures. This suggests the possibility of future “Stranger Things” projects and the potential for new opportunities within the captivating world they’ve created.

By understanding the unique casting process, honing your craft, and approaching the audition with authenticity and preparedness, you’ll increase your chances of becoming part of the final chapter of “Stranger Things” and potentially even venturing into future iterations of this captivating universe.