Casting Director Renee Godbout gives you four ways to make sure you don't go off the deep end when it comes to relationships
By Renee Godbout
Romances start on set every day. Sometimes things work out, but more often romance turns sour and work becomes a battlefield that you have to work through together.
For example, One Tree Hill co-stars Chad Michael Murray and Sophia Bush divorced less than six months after their marriage. Although they did go through a rather uncomfortable period of time first, they have luckily been able to continue a professional relationship and Sophia Bush is now dating another co-star. Unfortunately, that is not how most of these situations turn out. Imagine getting a divorce and still having to kiss your ex on television!
The above situation isn’t the only issue to deal with when working on camera or on stage with your significant others. Although the idea of working and playing together sounds amazing, the drawbacks are substantial. Here are a couple things to remember before and after you start dating a co-star:
1. Always remain professional on-set. I’ve worked with couples who are so into playfully bantering with one another that they are late to set or don’t hear proper instructions.
2. Acting is acting. There is no room or reason for jealousy if your significant other has to kiss someone else on camera.
3. Don’t let emotions bleed onto the screen. That includes flirtatious glances during the honeymoon stage or anger in the midst of a fight. Leave your emotions at the door and don’t drag the whole production down with you.
4. Don’t ever make yourself and your partner into a package deal. Let casting directors decide who they want to cast, not you. You’ll come off as pushy and casting directors may choose to avoid that discomfort rather than call and book one of you.
Acting with your significant other holds all the same challenges as co-workers in an office environment have to deal with. Just remember that while you are at work, work comes first. Don’t ruin your reputation for relationships that don’t always succeed.
Both Hollywood and low-budget horror films are made all the time. Even if you’re not in LA, look out for opportunities to get involved with a low-budget production near you!
Renee Godbout - Freelance Casting Director. Renee Godbout recently worked on the first season of The CW's popular teen show Gossip Girl at Grant Wilfey Casting. Some past projects include 2 seasons of Law & Order: Criminal Intent, the pilot for Dirty Sexy Money, and the Jonathan Demme-directed Rachel Getting Married.
Have a question? Ask our experts!
