Remember that awkward transition period after high school when real life hit like a punch to the gut? Prime Video’s new comedy “Overcompensating” dives deep into this uneasiness, following a closeted former jock (Benito Skinner) navigating college, identity, and the messy pursuit of acceptance. The eight-episode series premiered on May 15 and currently holds a 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
If you’re wondering how “Overcompensating” got cast, we’ve got you covered. From who cast the series to news about Season 2, let his guide be your go-to resource.
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“Overcompensating” is a coming-of-age comedy-drama created by and starring TikTok star Skinner, aka Benny Drama, as college freshman Benny. Benny is a former high school athlete who befriends an outcast, Carmen (Wally Baram), during their first year of college, setting off a journey of self-discovery, humor, and heartbreak. Skinner told Variety, “The inspiration [for the show] was definitely my life,” adding that “Overcompensating” began as a live show in 2019. “It’s stories of me being in and out of the closet and my experience doing so much to be loved and accepted.”
Season 1 of “Overcompensating” features:
- Benito Skinner as Benny
- Wally Baram as Carmen
- Mary Beth Barone as Grace
- Adam DiMarco as Peter
- Rish Shah as Miles
- Corteon Moore as Gabe
- Nell Verlaque as Emily
- Owen Thiele as George
- Elias Azimi as Chris
- Holmes as Hailee
Celebrity guest appearances include Megan Fox (via dorm room poster), Didi Conn, Kaia Gerber, singer Charli XCX, and Bowen Yang.
Jessica Kelly, known for casting roles in A24 films like “Midsommar” and hit series like “Emily in Paris” and “Euphoria,” serves as the casting director alongside Emmy-winning CD Lisa Parasyn (“Schitt’s Creek,” “Workin’ Moms”).
Casting the role of Carmen was a central focus for the series, and Kelly estimated that they received over 6,000 submissions; but it was Skinner who suggested Baram would be a good fit for the role.
In an interview with Elle, Baram said she originally signed on to be a writer for the series, but while working in the writers’ room, she found herself identifying with Carmen’s character.
“I read the script, and I was like, ‘There’s this character that is just very similar to me.’ She has this crazy hair. She’s awkward and can’t quite figure out how to do the same jig that everyone else is doing socially, and she also overcompensates with romance,” she said.
After sending in a self-tape, Baram was ultimately offered the role, making it her first-ever acting gig. “It’s absurd…. It feels like I’ve tumbled upwards in the craziest way,” she said.
For advice on how to prepare for your next big audition or how to communicate with casting directors, check out these guides:
- How to Audition for Amazon Prime Video
- The 1 Question to Ask Before Every Audition
- How to Ask if a Casting Decision Has Been Made Yet
Skinner has hopes for a second season, but a renewal has not been confirmed yet. In a recent interview with Variety, Skinner joked that he’d like to see Pedro Pascal on Season 2 as Carmen’s dad or a teacher. If renewed, there’s always hope for those interested in getting cast on the next installment, whether it’s as a new defining character or a silent classmate sitting in the background.
While we wait for more casting info about the next season, find more casting opportunities here:
Interested in even more casting calls? Be sure to save these casting directory pages for the latest acting jobs:
These tips will help you to prepare for auditions and upcoming casting calls: