The world of One Chicago—encompassing the brave heroes of Chicago Fire, the tenacious detectives of Chicago P.D., and the dedicated doctors of Chicago Med—is more than just a fictional universe; it’s a powerhouse for actors. Filmed on location in the Windy City, the franchise has become a rite of passage for local and aspiring performers. But how do you go from watching the action on your screen to being a part of it?
Landing a role in the One Chicago universe, whether as a series regular, a one-episode guest star, or even a background actor, is a process that requires a combination of talent, preparation, and knowing the right people. From the casting directors who hold the keys to the kingdom to the insider advice from the actors themselves, here is a comprehensive guide to joining the world of Firehouse 51, the 21st District, and Chicago Med.
The Casting Process: It Starts with an Agent
For any aspiring actor, the first and most crucial step to landing a speaking role on any of the One Chicago shows is securing a union-franchised agent. The shows are all union productions, so roles are typically submitted and auditioned through established talent agencies. The casting process for Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D. is primarily handled by Simon Casting, while Karge+Ross Casting handles Chicago Med. These casting agencies have strong relationships with local Chicago agents, so having an agent who is on their radar is a major advantage.
Once you have representation, your agent will submit you for a role based on the character breakdown provided by the casting directors. The shows are known for a fast-paced production schedule, which means casting decisions are often made quickly. The audition process typically involves:
- Self-Tape Auditions: In the modern age of casting, many initial auditions are done via self-taped videos. Actors must be prepared to film and submit professional-quality tapes on short notice.
- Callbacks: If your self-tape makes an impression, you may be called in for a live audition or a virtual callback.
- Producer Sessions: For major guest roles or series regulars, the final round of auditions will be in front of the executive producers, writers, and casting directors.
According to creator Dick Wolf, he is heavily involved in all principal casting for his shows. He looks for actors who not only know their lines but also understand the character they are playing and can demonstrate depth in their performance. He has stated that a proper fit can make or break a show, so he and his team are always looking for that “perfect fit.”
The Physicality and Authenticity They’re Looking For
The One Chicago universe is defined by its realism. The shows’ commitment to portraying the day-to-day lives of first responders means that casting directors are looking for actors who can bring an authentic presence to the screen. Jonathan K. Strauss, a casting director for the franchise, has stated that while the physicality is important, what’s more crucial is an actor’s ability to embody the “feelings and unspoken emotions” of the characters.
Casting directors often seek actors who are believable as firefighters, police officers, or doctors. This means an actor’s “disposition, such as how they are at rest,” is often matched with roles that suit them naturally. It’s a talent, as Strauss notes, to simply “be oneself on camera.” For actors, this means bringing a sense of truth and sincerity to every audition, even for smaller roles that may only have a few lines.
For actors aspiring to play more than just a background role, here are some key tips that stars of the show and industry professionals swear by:
- Be a “Chicago Actor”: The shows are a major hub for the city’s acting community. Casting directors love theater actors, so having a strong background in Chicago’s theater or improv scene is a major plus. It demonstrates a solid foundation in the craft and a professional work ethic.
- Master the Subtlety of On-Camera Acting: Many stage actors who transition to television must learn to scale back their performance. The camera picks up every nuance, so a “less is more” approach is often best. The goal is to be a team player, pushing the story along without trying to steal the scene.
- Stay Flexible and Be Prepared: The One Chicago production is fast-paced. Actors must be ready to take direction on the fly and make quick adjustments to their performance. As Dick Wolf himself has stated, “The short answer, is we are as open as possible.” This means being open to different interpretations of a character and showing the creative team that you are a flexible and adaptable collaborator.
- Bring Your Authentic Self: Daniel Kyri, who plays Ritter on Chicago Fire, has spoken about the importance of authenticity in the audition room. He advises actors to “be who you always wanted to see.” By embracing your unique background and experiences, you can bring a truth to the character that no one else can.
The Path of a Background Actor
For many aspiring actors, the first step into the One Chicago world is as an extra or a background actor. This is a vital part of the production and a great way to get a feel for a professional television set. The shows regularly put out casting calls for background actors.
- How to Apply: The best way to get hired as an extra is to follow the official casting pages on social media, such as the Chicago Fire Extras and Chicago PD & Med Extras Facebook pages. They post specific needs for each day of filming.
- What They Look For: You don’t need professional headshots to be an extra. A clear, recent photo of yourself with a solid background is often all that is required. The casting calls will specify the type of person needed for a scene (e.g., “pedestrians,” “firefighters,” “medical staff”).
- The Experience: Working as a background actor is a long day with early call times and a lot of waiting. However, it provides invaluable experience and a chance to network. For some, it can even lead to a bigger opportunity down the line.
The world of One Chicago is constantly in motion. With new characters coming in and old ones departing, there is a constant need for fresh talent. For actors who are dedicated to their craft and willing to put in the hard work, the doors to Firehouse 51, the 21st District, and Chicago Med are always open.
