From so-bad-they’re-good horror-thrillers such as “Bed Rest” (2022) to dog mom rom-coms such as “Frankie Meets Jack” (2023), the innovative ad-supported Tubi has steadily carved out a niche in the streaming realm. If you’re an actor who’s drawn to the idea of appearing in fun projects and producing free content, you may want to hop on the Tubi train. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
1. Understand the Tubi casting process.
The Tubi casting process is straightforward but competitive. Production companies or casting agencies post casting calls, then select applicants for auditions, which can be held in-person or virtually. If you impress the casting directors, you might receive a callback, where you’ll have another chance to perform and possibly interact with other actors or the director. Finally, if you succeed, the production team will make an offer and get you started on the Tubi project.
2. Find auditions.
Finding auditions for Tubi roles requires persistence and staying up-to-date with relevant resources, such as:
- Casting call databases: Tubi casting calls constantly change and update day to day, so be sure to consistently check out our comprehensive casting call database using the search term “Tubi.”
- Social media: Follow the platform’s official accounts on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) to stay updated on new opportunities. The Tubi Casting Calls Facebook Group is another helpful resource.
- Networking events and workshops: Attend industry events to meet professionals and learn about upcoming projects firsthand. Once you get on one Tubi set, stay in touch with colleagues to learn about future Tubi projects.
- Casting directors: Several casting directors have a track record of working with Tubi productions:
- Isabella Bolognini is Tubi’s internal originals casting manager.
- Cambria Hankin cast “War of the Worlds: Annihilation” (2021) and “Swim” (2021).
- Paul Ruddy cast several films, including “Romeo and Juliet Killers” (2022).
- Good Faith Casting recently cast “The Sintern” (2024).
- Representation: Seek representation with an agent to get the inside scoop on Tubi acting opportunities.
3. Prepare and submit audition materials.
Prepare your headshot, acting résumé, and demo reel for submission, ensuring they’re professional and current. Casting directors or directors may even check out your socials, so make sure your social media presence showcases your work and abilities as an actor.
Depending on the audition type, you may be asked to submit your materials through a casting website or send them to an email address. Follow the instructions carefully and make sure to include all necessary information. This may entail creating a standout self-tape audition with the sides provided.
4. Attend callbacks.
If you’re lucky enough to land a callback, make sure to gather any extra materials they might ask for and review the sides again for any changes. Whether you’re showing up in person or joining virtually, bring your A-game.
Tubi continuously updates its content library, offering a variety of opportunities for diverse talents. The platform is currently particularly interested in expanding its original content, which boasts everything from thriller series to family-friendly movies, including “Justice Soldier of God,” “West Nam,” “Groupie: The Blueprint of a Self Made Millionaire,” and “Everything Is Normal.”
Tubi actors earn just over $20/hour on average, according to ZipRecruiter. How much an actor on the platform might earn is similar to any acting role—it really depends on the production, scale, and budget. While lead actors in Tubi originals can earn competitive SAG minimum rates, this is more of an anomaly than the standard. The allure of Tubi is usually its accessibility for indie filmmakers, whose productions typically have a more limited budget. Be open-minded but know your dealbreaker rate when auditioning, since some may be far lower than the industry-wide standard.
