Breaking Into TV Series & Vertical Dramas: Casting Director Jagar Shares What Actors Need to Know

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In this AllCasting webinar, Toronto-based Casting Director and Talent Agent Jigar Shah shares insider advice on self-tapes, vertical drama casting, TV auditions, social media, and what actors need to do to stand out in 2026.

In this webinar, we sit down with Jigar Shah — Toronto-based Casting Director and Talent Agent with 8+ years of experience casting TV series, vertical dramas, and digital content across Canada, the US, Europe, and Asia.

As vertical dramas and mobile-first productions continue to grow, actors are navigating a rapidly changing casting industry. In this conversation, Jigar shares practical advice on auditions, callbacks, authenticity, social media, and how actors can build momentum in today’s entertainment landscape.

In this webinar, you’ll learn:

  • How actors can stand out in TV series auditions
  • What casting directors notice in the first few seconds
  • The biggest self-tape mistakes actors make
  • How vertical drama casting differs from traditional TV
  • Why authenticity matters more than overacting
  • How social media can impact casting decisions
  • What helps new actors book their first roles
  • Why consistency and visibility matter in acting careers

Jigar also explains why vertical dramas are becoming one of the fastest-growing casting categories worldwide and what actors should know before auditioning for mobile-first productions.

One of his biggest takeaways:

“Go for every opportunity that comes your way because you never know what might change your career entirely.”

Watch the full webinar above for casting insights, audition strategies, and advice for actors looking to grow their careers in TV, streaming, and vertical drama productions.

Q&A

What do casting directors look for in self-tapes?
Casting directors look for authenticity, preparation, strong emotional choices, and actors who fit the role description closely.
What are vertical dramas?
Vertical dramas are fast-paced mobile-first scripted series designed for phone viewing platforms like TikTok and streaming apps.
Do actors need social media to get cast?
Social media can help actors showcase personality, lifestyle, skills, and marketability. Many casting directors review profiles during casting.
Can beginners book TV roles?
Yes. Casting directors often consider new actors who bring authenticity, professionalism, and the right energy for a role.
Should actors apply for smaller roles?
Yes. Smaller projects help actors build experience, expand networks, and increase visibility with casting professionals.