So. You've got the job. You're a PA on Dr. Phil. Now what?

After you sign a ton of paperwork, most likely you'll setup your space -mainly your computer login and company email. The truth is, you'll be casting for more days than you are producing.

Shows are categorized as "Episodic" or "Stand-Alone"

An Episodic series will generally have the same character in each episode following a storyline which spans the season. For Example, Duck Dynasty, Love and Hip Hop, All of the Housewives shows etc.

A Stand-Alone series can have both the same characters or a new batch every episode however, each episode has its own story because there is no overall storyline for the season. For Example, Steve Harvey, The Real, Divorce Court etc.

Casting for an episodic may take weeks depending on the production budget and schedule. Usually, a casting call will be held. People will come in and "audition" in person or send in tapes. Again it really depends on the production. Casting is generally completed before production begins.

Some stand-alone shows will use "carts". Carts are print outs of the names, numbers and messages of potential "guests". Because there is a new story in every episode, casting and production are simultaneous.

A cart would look like this:

08/22/18 - James Dean - 555.555.5555 - Yesterday my wife said she's leaving me. Can doctor Phil help us?

08/22/18 - Mariah Lake - 444.444.4444 - ...(inaudible)

08/21/18 - Mason Rogers - 222.222.2222 - How do I get tickets to the show? Are they Free? Can I meet Dr. Phil...

Already you can tell that this is not the most reliable source for talent but during every airing there is a hotline number that the show gives out. A 1800 #. The recordings from that number are what make up the "carts". If you can't tell by looking at this that "James Dean" should be your first call, maybe this isn't for you.

The casting director/producer for both episodic and stand-alone is looking for a few things. Of course a great personality and ability to express oneself but also a moldable mind. On of the best skills any television production assist will learn is to Brief.

To Brief is to convince the talent that the thoughts you're putting in their head are their own. It's almost a hypnosis of sorts. The show UnReal is the most accurate depiction of how manipulative this skill can be. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3IjmQiB8wc

Words of the day: Episodic, Stand-alone and Brief

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