The Impact of a Bad Audition: From Cuts to Career Turnarounds

The world of Hollywood is full of stories where actors and actresses either bomb an audition or are cut from a show because of it. However, these incidents can often have surprising outcomes, ranging from immediate dismissal to significant career turnarounds.

Why an Actor Might Be Cut After Bombing an Audition

Generally, if an actor or actress bombs an audition, they aren't put into the cast in the first place. This is because producers often have a thorough process to screen potential candidates. However, there are scenarios where an actor might be cut even after an audition. This can happen for a variety of reasons:

Studio/Producers' Decisions: The studio, backers, or producers might tell the casting director that the actor should not be in the show due to various reasons. Revealing Negative Information: An actor might accidentally reveal information about themselves that makes them a bad choice, such as their inability to get along with certain cast members or a lack of commitment to the role. Unpleasant Chemistry: Sometimes, the chemistry between an actor and the rest of the cast doesn't work, leading to a lack of fit for the role. Planning to Join a Different Role: Actors sometimes secretly look for a different role and might plan to drop out of the production. Unprofessional Conduct: Difficult to work with, unreliable, or unable to perform their duties can also result in being cut.

Real-Life Examples: Cuts and Career Revivals

One notable example is Taryn Manning. After a bad day at a table read, she was cut from a show. This might seem like a severe setback, but Manning took it in stride and continued her acting, modeling, and singing careers. She even made a comeback in the hit series Orange is the New Black.

Lucille Ball's Audition Story

Lucille Ball, a legendary actress, also had a memorable audition story. In 1938, when she was just starting out, she had an auditions for the role of Scarlet O'Hara in Gone with the Wind. Since she didn't think she had a chance, she studied the lines and went to the audition, arriving soaked in a sudden rainstorm. She waited in a secretary's office, kneeled by a fire to dry herself, and went through her lines. David Selznick himself was impressed but felt she wasn't quite what he was looking for.

This event became a talking point in her life, and years later, she bought Selznick's studio to produce her show I Love Lucy. Despite the misfortune, she insisted, I have a fire in my belly and a puck in my mouth at the same time. This optimistic attitude ultimately propelled her to great success, even in the face of a terrible audition.

Conclusion

While an audition failure can be a setback, it doesn't necessarily mean the end of a career. Some actors learn from these experiences, regroup, and come back stronger. These stories highlight the importance of persistency and perseverance in the competitive world of Hollywood. Remember, even if your first attempt doesn't go as planned, there's always a chance for a career revival and a greater triumph in the future.