Katherine Woodman didn’t take a typical route to getting cast on “Big Brother.”
After previously sharing that she applied on a whim after a couple glasses of wine—and initially questioned whether producers’ outreach was legit—the season 27 alum is now opening up about what the casting process is really like for applicants.
During a recent interview with BBSteph, Woodman shared a series of tips for future houseguests, drawing from her own experience navigating the process.
Katherine Woodman Says Casting Requires Constant Communication
CBSWoodman described the casting process as something that requires ongoing responsiveness from applicants.
“Be as available as you can be,” she said. “They don’t desire you until pretty late in the process. Like, everyone’s replaceable for quite some time of the process.”
She explained that applicants are expected to keep up with multiple steps at once.
“Make sure that you’re on top of all the stuff that they’re asking you to because there’s forms here and there randomly that you have to do, on top of the copious amount of interviews that you’re doing,” Woodman added.
According to the “Big Brother” casting website, applicants begin by submitting an online application along with a video and a current photo. Those selected to move forward are contacted by producers for interviews. Applicants who advance further may be asked to travel to Los Angeles for final interviews and complete additional requirements, like background checks and medical evaluations.
Katherine Woodman Says Personality and Storytelling Stand Out
CBSWoodman also shared what helps applicants stand out during casting, emphasizing how they present themselves.
“Everyone says find something really unique about yourself and really drive that home. … They want good storytellers,” she said.
She added that having a completely unique experience isn’t required, though.
“There could be an experience that you have that’s not that unique that a lot of people have happened to them, but the way that you’re able to talk about it could make you more interesting than the other person that has the same experience,” Woodman said. “So if you can’t find something extraordinarily unique about yourself … find a way to tell that story or find a way to present yourself that makes it different.”
As far as handling nerves, Woodman said she reminded herself not to look at anybody during the interview.
“Just look at the camera,” she said, adding that it helped her avoid getting distracted by producers’ reactions during interviews.
‘Big Brother’ Casting Is Already Underway for Season 28
CBSWhile details about “Big Brother” season 28 have not been announced, casting is already in progress.
According to CBS News, more than 200 people attended an open casting call at Cache Creek Casino Resort in Brooks, California, on March 23. Some applicants lined up before the doors opened at 9 a.m., with hopeful contestants traveling from across California and other states to audition.
During the event, each applicant was given a minute to speak directly to a camera and explain why they should be on “Big Brother.” The audition tapes are then reviewed by producers, who determine which applicants will move forward in the process.
Applications are also available online.
