Skip to main content

From Start to Stardom: The Casting Director's Guide for Aspiring Actors Now Available

A new book entitled From Start to Stardom: The Casting Director's Guide for Aspiring Actors gives tips and directions for aspiring actors and their loved ones. Read on.


From the Press Release
What do Miley Cyrus, Jonah Hill, Megan Hilty, Selena Gomez and Mariska Hargitay all have in common?


They were all cast, or discovered by veteran casting director Lisa London, some of whose casting credits include: Miley Cyrus in the pilot of Hannah Montana, Jonah Hill in Grandma's Boy, Emma Stone and Katherine McPhee in House Bunny, and the first Ellen DeGeneres TV series Ellen. London has found future stars for more than two decades as principal of London/Stroud Casting, working on over 50 television shows, movies and pilots.

Her book, From Start to Stardom: The Casting Director's Guide for Aspiring Actors, is a step-by-step guide for aspiring actors and their parents. London writes about how children, teens, and young adults with an interest in Hollywood careers can get started and the key to having the best shot at stardom. She lays out what you need to know about what makes for an effective headshot, how to find and work with an agent and/or manager, how to get auditions, and what to do, and not to do to get cast. She also reveals details and insider secrets about what happens behind casting directors' closed doors.

"I wrote the book, because, I love seeing new actors succeed," London said. "And because so many people over the years have asked me questions about helping their children, even college grads have asked me how to get into movies and television. Drawing on years of casting experience, I have a good understanding of the process and the pitfalls, and I hope my insights and observations can make the journey easier."

From Start to Stardom includes interviews with some of today's hottest teen stars, leading managers and agents, photographers and directors, as well as sample acting resumes, and practical, actionable advice for aspiring actors and their parents.

"Best book ever! There's so much to learn when getting started in Hollywood, and this book is smart, concise and very insightful! A true must-have for every parent and actor." - Tish Cyrus (Miley's mom)

"I wish this book was available when I graduated from college and started auditioning. It's so great to hear this advice from a casting director's perspective. And Lisa is the best! I should know, she gave me my first TV job, and we've been friends ever since!"- Megan Hilty (Sean Saves The World, Smash and Broadway musical Wicked)

Popular posts from this blog

Review: Oscar Moon’s Milkshake Bar Brings Soul, Sweetness, and Soda-Shop Magic to Huntsville

If you’re craving something decadent, nostalgic, and downright joyful, Oscar Moon’s Milkshake Bar at Stovehouse is the kind of place that makes dessert feel like an experience—not just a treat. Part vintage soda fountain, part modern milkshake haven, and all heart, Oscar Moon’s serves up towering shakes, bubbly floats, and classic soda-shop flavors with a side of soulful rhythm. A Vibe Straight Out of a Retro Daydream Step inside and you’re immediately wrapped in warm, glowing nostalgia. The space combines the charm of a 1950s soda counter with the playful energy of a modern dessert bar. There’s soul music pumping through the speakers, staff who greet you like old friends, and—if you’re lucky—a disco-ball moment when the lights go down and the whole shop transforms into a sweet little party. It’s impossible not to smile here. Milkshakes That Are As Over-The-Top As They Are Delicious Oscar Moon’s specializes in over-the-top, photo-ready milkshakes that spill over with whipped cre...

Get Ready, Gamers and Collectors: TCG Con Sand Mountain 2026 is Coming!

  Calling all nerds, geeks, gamers, and collectors! Mark your calendars and clear your schedules because a massive celebration of all things collectible is heading to Alabama. TCG Con Sand Mountain is set to take over the Sand Mountain Park on Saturday, March 21st, 2026, promising a safe and exciting space for enthusiasts of every stripe to come together and celebrate their passions. Event Details at a Glance Date: Saturday, March 21st, 2026 Time: 10:00 AM until 5:00 PM Location: Sand Mountain Park, 1325 S.M.P.A. Albertville, AL 35950 Space: 30,000 sq ft of collectibles heaven Entry: $10 (Kids 12 & under are FREE!) Facebook Event: TCG Con Sand Mountain A Universe of Categories Whether you are a veteran TCG player or a casual fan of pop culture, there is something for everyone. The convention boasts an impressive array of categories, including: Trading Card Games: Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering (MtG), Lorcana, Yu-Gi-Oh!, One Piece, Flesh and Blood, Digimon, Gundam, Dragon Ball Z,...

Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo 2026 Returns for Its Biggest Year Yet

Huntsville, Alabama is preparing for one of the state’s biggest celebrations of geek culture as the Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo returns April 17–19, 2026. Now entering its 11th year, the fan-favorite convention will once again take over the Von Braun Center in downtown Huntsville, bringing together thousands of fans for a three-day event dedicated to comics, movies, television, anime, gaming, cosplay, and more. Known as Alabama’s largest celebration of all things geek, the Expo continues to grow each year, expanding its footprint throughout the Von Braun Center with additional ballrooms and event spaces. The expanded layout allows for a larger show floor, more panels, and plenty of room for the massive crowds that attend annually. A Star-Studded Guest Lineup The 2026 Expo features an impressive roster of celebrity guests from across television, film, animation, and gaming. Fans will have the opportunity to meet stars such as Zachary Levi, Ron Perlman, LeVar Burton, Tom ...