# What does a casting director do?

> A casting director finds and proposes the actors for a film, series or play, and manages the process from the first brief to the signed contract. That means reading the script, drawing up lists, checking availability, running auditions and self-tapes, organising recalls and chemistry reads, presenting choices to the director, producers and broadcaster, and negotiating the deals.

## What are the stages of casting?

1. **Brief.** The casting director talks through the script, the tone and what the broadcaster needs.
2. **Search.** Lists, availability checks and, where it helps, an open call.
3. **Tapes and auditions.** In the room where possible, on tape where not.
4. **Recalls.** Chemistry reads, and shaping the ensemble so every character fills a different space.
5. **Decisions.** Presenting choices to producers, directors and executives.
6. **Deals and contracts.** Offers, negotiation and paperwork.

## Who makes the final decision?

The director, the producers and the broadcaster or studio. The casting director decides who they see, and argues for the people they believe in.

## How is a casting director different from an agent?

An agent represents actors and is paid by them. A casting director is hired by the production and represents nobody. Casting directors send breakdowns to agents, and agents suggest clients.

## What does CW Casting cover?

Full casting for series, serials, single dramas and feature films, development and pilot casting, open and street searches, young performers, and casting alongside another casting director. Catherine Willis describes the part of the job that drew her in as getting the right people in the room.

## Sources

- [The Casting Directors' Guild](https://www.thecdg.co.uk/)
- [Spotlight: how casting directors and agents use Spotlight](https://www.spotlight.com/news-and-advice/getting-work/how-casting-directors-and-agents-use-spotlight/)

Last checked: 9 October 2026. Page: https://www.cwcasting.co.uk/questions/what-does-a-casting-director-do