Memphians feeling the game show frenzy may have a chance to jump into the action.
The Weakest Link will be holding an open casting call at the Radisson Hotel on Union Avenue Friday at noon. But be forewarned; it’s not an easy road to the top.
“We’ve been going all over the country — we’re always looking for a little slice of Americana, rather than the actor/model types typically found in Los Angeles,” said Laura Chambers, contestant producer for The Weakest Link.
Doors open at noon, but it’s based on a first come, first served system, so those wanting to try out should arrive early.
“Bring a book,” Chambers said, laughing. “Bring a folding chair. Make friends. It’s a lot like waiting in line for concert tickets: you just have to tough it out.”
Of all those who show up, roughly 500 to 550 people will be allowed to audition (of those, anywhere from five to 20 will eventually make it to the show).
When the doors open, the first 125 people in line are lead into what Chambers called “the big room” where they will begin the vigorous screening process.
First up on the agenda is the application. Then hopefuls are given a 20-question “general knowledge test” which covers such subjects as pop culture and geography.
Each potential contestant is then asked to stand up and talk about themselves for five to ten seconds.
This introduction is crucial, as it allows Chambers and her staff to get a feel for whether a person is Weakest Link material or not.
Making the cut requires a careful mix of timing, charisma and enthusiam.
“If they have no energy, they’re not going to make it. If they’re nervous in a room full of 125 people, they’re not right for the show,” she said.
For those wishing to try out, Chambers was happy to offer tips.
“We look for a character, somebody who’s kind of got a really strong personality and an interesting job,” she said. “Speak clearly and loudly. Dressing nice doesn’t hurt, but we really don’t look at that.”
While Chambers said some emphasis is placed on how photogenic a person is, it’s not the main concern.
“It is television — it is primetime television — so I’m not going to lie to you,” she said. “But I don’t think everybody has to be a perfect size 2, or gorgeous.”
Chambers said Weakest Link looks for diversity.
“We’re looking for all walks of life, not just looking for the doctors and lawyers,” she said.
And pride doesn’t hurt.
“Brag about the fun things that have happened in your life,” Chambers said. “Be positive. Try to pique our interest. There will be people who sit and talk to us and say, ‘I have a really boring life.’ They’re not getting on the show.”
Chambers also revealed another common mistake.
“The first thing you would never want to say is “I’ve tried out for five game shows, and I’m hoping this will be the one that I get on,” she said, laughing. “You wouldn’t want to go on a job interview and say, ‘Xerox didn’t want me, IBM didn’t want me, but I’m hoping Canon printers will want me.’”
Approximately 15-20 percent of those in the big room pass the initial screening and are taken into a smaller room, where they play a mock version of the game.
After that’s over, wannabe contestants must sit back and wait.
The interview process is captured on video camera, and that tape is taken to Los Angeles, where Chambers (who doesn’t attend all casting calls) will watch it and review the notes sent to her which her staff has made about each player.
Chambers and the show’s two executive producers make the final decision. Those who make the cut are flown out to Los Angeles — but even getting that far doesn’t guarantee a spot on the show.
“We fly out more people than we need; it’s just a logistics thing,” Chambers explained.
For those who do make it, the chance of great fortune could await.
Chambers (who has worked for 20 years as a casting director for such games shows as Greed and Studs before taking her current job) said she truly loves working with The Weakest Link, because she’s able to greatly change lives.
“For those contestants who make it to the show, some of them come away winning $40 thousand or $60 thousand, which is really life-changing money,” she said. “We see people come in who win a lot of money and get themselves out of debt.”
