1. Actors Access – https://actorsaccess.com
Run by Breakdown Services, Actors Access is the industry-standard platform for professional film and TV casting. It allows actors to submit directly to projects and upload their headshots, resume, reels, and self-tapes. It’s widely used by casting directors and agents, and it’s crucial for anyone pursuing union or agency-represented work.
- Best for: Film, TV, indie projects
- Run by: Breakdown Services (used by casting directors)
- Key Features:
- Direct submission to casting calls
- Talent profile with headshots, resume, and demo reel
- Eco Cast for remote auditions
- Essential for actors seeking legit representation and union work
2. Casting Networks/LA Casting – https://www.castingnetworks.com
Casting Networks is the go-to site for commercial work. It’s heavily used by commercial casting offices and talent agents, especially in Los Angeles. Actors can create a profile, upload photos and reels, and receive audition invites. It’s often considered essential for actors looking to break into commercials or commercial print.
- Best for: Commercials, print, and industrials
- Used by: Commercial agents and casting offices
- Key Features:
- Talent profile with photos and media
- Self-tape submission platform
- Bookable services like photo & reel hosting
- Often used alongside agency representation
3. Backstage – https://www.backstage.com
Backstage is known for offering a wide variety of roles in indie films, student projects, theater, web series, and even voiceover work. It’s especially beginner-friendly and often used by emerging talent. It also includes educational resources, casting advice, and frequent job alerts. Many actors use Backstage to build their experience and credits.
- Best for: Theater, student films, indie, web series, VO
- More actor-friendly for beginners
- Key Features:
- Tons of listings for both union & non-union roles
- Easy self-submission tools
- Advice columns, classes, and job alerts
4. Casting Frontier – https://www.castingfrontier.com
Popular for commercials, voiceover, and industrial projects, Casting Frontier is another key player in the commercial casting world. Talent can self-submit, upload video and audio reels, and get booked directly. It’s used by casting directors across the U.S., especially for commercial work.
- Best for: Commercials, voiceover, and print
- Used by: Ad agencies and talent reps
- Key Features:
- Video and voice reels
- Direct bookings and casting calls
- Integration with commercial casting offices
5. LA Casting / Casting Networks (merged) – https://www.castingnetworks.com
- Technically part of Casting Networks now, but still colloquially referred to as “LA Casting” by many in the industry
- Still a must for commercial actors in Los Angeles
6. Project Casting – https://www.projectcasting.com
This site provides quick access to a wide range of casting calls, especially in the Southeast U.S. While it doesn’t offer as many high-level projects as Actors Access or Casting Networks, it’s helpful for beginners or those looking for background work, brand gigs, or local castings.
- Best for: Quick access to castings (especially Southeast U.S.)
- Free and paid tiers
- Not as widely used by top-tier productions, but helpful for background work, modeling, and beginner roles
7. Voice123 / Voices.com (Voiceover Only)
For actors with a voiceover setup at home, these platforms are ideal. They feature projects in commercials, animation, narration, and more. You can audition directly by uploading sample recordings and communicating with clients.
- Self-submit voice actors for commercial, animation, narration, etc.
- Ideal for those with home studio setups
🔑 Pro Tip for Serious Actors:
Most working actors in LA or NYC use Actors Access + Casting Networks/LA Castings + Backstage as a trio to cover TV/film, commercials, and indie projects.
