Interview Highlights
- Casting has gone fully digital — from paper books to global online databases.
- Authenticity and preparation are key qualities casting directors seek.
- Self-tapes are now standard, offering more audition opportunities.
- Platforms like AllCasting and social media help directors discover new talent.
- Continuous training and visibility are vital for staying competitive.
1. How has casting evolved since you first started in the industry?
“It has been quite a ride. From internet to social media with speed casting like we never had before, it really helped having so many followers on social media and having a huge online database for easy research: I dumped all my paper books of the old days and now you can work from the tip of your fingers to send breakdowns and receive all in digital.”
Insight:
Rousse highlights the complete digital transformation of casting. What once required thick binders and phone calls is now managed through streamlined online systems, allowing faster and more efficient casting across borders.
2. In 2026, what’s the key thing casting directors look for in talent?
“Authenticity, credibility, but really, being prepared in all aspects — skills, costume, and focus on you, not the background of your home but a clean self-tape.”
Insight:
For Rousse, the future of casting belongs to actors who bring genuine emotion and professionalism to every performance. Preparation and presentation — from wardrobe to self-tape setup — are as important as raw talent.
3. How have self-tapes changed — what feels ‘industry standard’ now?
“Considering the new era of self-tapes, it is a blessing for some of us in saving time and thus offer more opportunities for actors to audition. We can see so much more talents than in an audition room in a day. Callbacks are often on Zoom or sometimes in person but rare.”
Insight:
The self-tape revolution has made auditions more accessible and efficient. Rousse notes that remote submissions open the door to more diverse talent pools and international opportunities for actors.
4. Which new casting trends in 2026 are shaping how you choose talent?
“The multitudes of platforms that are available like AllCasting play a big role in finding talents. We even look at the talent’s social media if needed to see them live if they don’t have a demo video.”
Insight:
Casting directors are now combining traditional tools with digital discovery. Platforms like AllCasting are essential for finding new faces, while social media presence adds an extra layer of visibility and credibility.
5. Your top advice for newcomers who want to meet today’s casting director expectations?
“Train your acting muscle non-stop, BE VISIBLE, network, listen to live podcasts like Showbiz Connect with guests in the industry, go to film festivals, and finally, make sure all your tools are in gear: photo, résumé, voice demo, and/or video demo.”
Insight:
Success today requires persistence and a proactive mindset. Rousse’s advice is clear: keep training, show up, and make sure your professional materials are always ready to impress.
