Currently airing its 38th season on CBS, “The Amazing Race” sends contestants around the world in pursuit of clues and out-of-the-box challenges, leading one lucky team to the grand cash prize of $1 million. If you don’t have acting experience or a reality TV background, no problem—you can still have a good chance of competing on the 15-time Emmy-winning show.
“The Amazing Race” is one of the top reality competition shows for newcomers because the casting team seeks authenticity, big personalities, and strong teammate chemistry, rather than professional screen time experience. If that sounds like you, keep reading to learn how to apply for “The Amazing Race” and what else to know if you’re hoping to get on board for the adventure of a lifetime.
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“The Amazing Race” follows a group of two-person teams as they race across the globe in a scavenger-hunt-style competition. The race is divided into segments called “legs,” with each leg typically taking place in a different location or country. Along the way, teams follow clues, puzzles, and route markers that lead them through physical and mental challenges. The faster a team successfully completes their tasks, the sooner they’ll reach the “Pit Stop” at the end of the leg, where they’re given hints or riddles about traveling to their next destination. Teams are allotted a stipend to arrange their own transportation to each location and must also coordinate travel for their camera crew, adding another obstacle to the race. At the end of each leg, the last team to arrive is usually eliminated. The first team to reach the final destination wins the $1 million prize. To keep results under wraps, eliminated teams are sequestered until the race officially ends.
Emmy-nominated host and New Zealand TV personality Phil Keoghan has hosted “The Amazing Race” since its premiere in 2001. Each season features a fresh cast of two-person teams who share a real-life relationship, whether they’re siblings, spouses, best friends, coworkers, or something in between. Most contestants are new to reality TV, but some racers have previously competed on other CBS reality shows, such as “Big Brother” and “Survivor.”
Co-creators Elise Doganieri and Bertram van Munster are also co-executive producers, along with Jonathan Littman. Jesse Tannenbaum (“Survivor,” “The Millionaire Matchmaker”) is the current CD, with previous casting directors including Lynne Spiegel Spillman (“Making the Cut”), Erin Connolly (“The Apprentice”), Stephanie Furman Darrow (“The Odd Couple”), and Shawn V. Laws O’Neil (“Big Brother”).
Do you have what it takes to compete on “The Amazing Race”? Keep an eye on the show’s official casting page for open calls and the latest updates about new seasons. You can also apply by submitting an audition tape with your teammate (just be sure to follow the recommended video tips and requirements listed here). To be eligible, you must be a U.S. resident, at least 18 years old, and have a valid driver’s license and U.S. passport. If you’ve applied before but didn’t make the cut, you’re encouraged to reapply with a new video. And while you’re at it, check out these other casting opportunities:
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Determined to catch your big break on reality TV? Here’s our advice on how to do it:
