So I assume you not going to be in the next big James Cameron's next movie?

lol yeah cameron sucks

I think I was a little redundant in that post..I am sorry, oh ya, I am sorry too

I think it's like this in most industries. The person hiring already has someone in mind, but they HAVE to list it publicly and HAVE to interview people, even if they have no desire to check out other people. I've had a couple jobs I didn't get because, "we've already got someone in house." Thanks for wasting my time.

I just have to say that I'm digging the titles for the last two entries...I love the Get Up Kids! And both those songs are awesome. So yeah. :)

"You know, if I were a producer or director, I would"

those who want, take.
those who dont, wait.

Tom Cruise sucks? I thought that was only a rumour...

What Chica said.

Bummer, Wil. I'm not an actor and will probably never experience what you (and other actors) have to go through at auditions, but I do know the feeling of walking into a room and getting vibes from the guy running the show that he doesn't even want to be there. It sucks a lot, and it must be ten times worse when you're up there alone. Sorry again, but good luck with the other audition you had... try to have a nice day :)

Yikes. They're shooting themselves in the foot by not devoting full attention to the potential cast. Who knows how many nuances - nuances that might grow into memorbale characters - have been lost by inconsiderate casting? Maybe this is a sign that institutionalised television is in its death throes, and independent productions, which live and die on acting performances, are the way of the future?
Gaving just received the ST:TNG Series 1 DVD set I am tempted to grab some sequences of Wesley's most memorable facial expressions from the first season and put a montage together hehe
Keep on trucking Wil, somewhere amongst all the crap is the role that makes it all worthwhile

- Lucas

Wil you should have went camping instead! (sorry about the bad news)

he seems nice, and braces represent!

Hang in there, Wil. Don't let the shitty Hollywood industry get you down bro.

Mike

God it pains me to read this stuff. It's just so goddam rude! I work in production (not casting!) and am always as polite and friendly as I can be (unless someone is being a complete asshole). In fact, being nice to people and having a good rapport with everyone is what keeps you going when you are stuck in a production office for 18 hours a day, especially when everyone else has wrapped hours ago!

Promise you this Wil - if I'm ever in a position to cast you or anyone else (not impossible I assure you) - they will be treated decently and with respect.

Don't let the bastards get you down - would you want to work with these people anyway??

i feel for ya wil....it's the same in my industry...i've been in advertising and design for about a decade, and when you work on the creative side, dealing with the bean counters, and brand police is a nightmare...
but thats the way it goes....like some one else just posted, you put up with a ton of shit, and just when you've almost had it, there's the role you were waiting for...
don't give up....all of us desperately want to see you in movies and on tv...
surely we won't be disapointed for much longer ;)

oh..and i STILL think your movie December rocks....i was just watching it the other night with my wife, and damn, if that's not a enjoyable film...

This is my first comment, so I might sound dumb. I sound dumb half the time anyway. But wow, I didn't realize that's how auditions go. I don't have anything to do with the entertainment industry except that I'm a...consumer, I guess you could call it, but that sort of treatment isn't acceptable anywhere. I'm not claiming to be a perfect person myself, but it's sad how many people in this world don't understand common courtesy. (Am learning this more and more now that I'm in college and am meeting people from all over.) Hang in there! We're rooting for you!

It's so tempting to stop caring just because others don't seem to care while you're auditioning. Fortunately for all of us, you can't stop caring because your sensitivity and vulnerability is part of what you bring to your characterisations. Never let anyone drag you down and take that from you. Just keep being yourself and giving it your best.

Rob

That's both surprising and not surprising. I'm surprised that these people could be so insensitive and superior, but at the same time, it's Hollywood. I always saw Tom Cruise as an asshole, but it's really true? I was so cheering for Nicole Kidman when she came on Letterman after the divorce and took a shot at Tom (even if it was just a shot as his shortness).

I didn't know you auditioned for Win Ben Stein's Money, Wil. Did you make it? I love that show! :)

Wil said:
...nobody is supposed to say obvious and truthful things, like Tom Cruise sucks, or James Cameron is an epic A-hole...

Wil, you're my new hero ;-)

Sounds like those people are just petty little men/women that feel the need to use what little power they have over your faith to make themselves feel bigger. Sadly you can find those everywhere it seems... in a studio in LA or a hotel in Las Vegas. Tell yourself they probably have a miserable life. Cheer up, the role of a lifetime is just around the corner 8-)

Just like any industry out there, making things simple is just too simple to think of. Yes, it is easier to do those things the way in your dream, but it's too easy. It's so easy, that the higher ups probably haven't even thought about those ideas. I'm still keeping my fingers crossed for you on that second audition. Don't give up hope.

I like that little dreamworld you are living in. I know you are not the only one there. I bet all the actors called on Monday are feeling the same way. Who knows, one day you may be on the other side of the table and boy won't those actors be lucky.

Sounds like you are alittle upset that Jim picked Arnie over you for T3, eh?

"I guess what most of them fail to realize is that the best acting is reacting,"

... and by that I don't mean acting *again*.

;)

*adds self to the posse* ^^ I remember purring over you when I was a wee one. What a treat to have my eyes opened to the fact that you're not Wes Crusher. *lol* Apologies for getting caught up in the usual actor/character mental-merge.

Good luck to you! May you ever be doing what you love, and love what you are doing~ (despite epic a-holes and ignorant feeb casting crew)

Hey Wil, I see that your hosting Arena on G4. Just wondering how much you really know about online gaming. Do you follow the Pro gaming scene, tournaments or even actually play online games? Will Arena cover any of the this type of gaming? Will there be any coverage of big lan tourneys like the CPL,WCG, or any of the big euro tournaments? I like the idea of G4 and your show on that channel, I just hope "Arena" won't end up binge a documentry on Evercrack!

BA

Wil

Thanks for sharing that with us. I had inklings about how auditions are, but not the truth. I'd say you should do a documentary about this, but if that's the way the industry goes, they probably wouldn't appreciate being shown a mirror.

I wish you luck with the second audition. Here's hoping that you're eventually in the position that you can change the industry for the better.

MOJO!

Thks Wil for an insiders view to the audition process.

It is too bad that casting people do not invest themselves into the process as much as people like you do.

My belief is that you don't get the things you are not suppose to get, and get the things you are. Guess I believe in Kismet!

Cheer up - other opportunities are always around the corner!

Bitch.

You can audition for us anytime.

What you need to do is just walk into the room and do your best.

And then finish with a full moon!

Don't forget the smiley face.

Sounds like it's time to get Jonathan Frakes in there to open up a can of whoop-ass!

Wil,

We know Tony Sepulveda, do you mind if I pass along your kind words to him? He's doing a lot of casting for the West Wing now, which my housemate is the Key 2nd on. She knew him before that, and is thrilled to be working with him also.

I think that on the business side of Hollywood, everyone is constantly being reminded that they aren't as big a shot as they were hoping, and they take it out on the actors, whom are the only people they feel they have power over. I worked as a casting assistanton a movie several years ago, and just cheered for everyone. You auditioned for that movie (your polaroid was on the wall), but it was before I was working there.

As for the bourgeois farts sitting behind the table, I say, "Noli nothis permittere te terere."

Latin for "Don't let the bastards get you down."

Anne

Wil and Ben Stein that woulda been cool!!

Wil
Sorry to hear that your auditions were just like (in my experience) most interviews these days.
You'll get that part, all this mojo should be able to beat even Hollywood eventually.....

The hollywood industry knows Wil is a great actor, the casting agents don't...

Oh man, it is amazing to see someone in your position saying this outloud. My partner is in the business and I have always been apalled at her acceptance of the way the 'business' works. I am in industrial sales and I have walked out of customers offices if they are unable to respect the fact that I am a professional and they have no right to disrespect me by wasting my time. I do the same for them. I have talked to many actors and they all basically accept it... but I guess they all secretly hope they will make it big and then be in a position to step on these same people...Well, kudos to you Will.

I'm an editor in Atlanta, and even down here I've seen the same sort of thing. Even worse for commercial auditions. The creatives (what I have to call my clients, wrong word if ever there was one) are frazzled, working on four hours sleep, and trying not to show it. They are trying to cram 48 hours into the day, because the sponsor totally changed the script two days ago, etc. etc. etc. Also, in two days they will audition 30 people, so if you are number 1 then 'wow, that was great, thanks' if you are number 25 it's 'great, we'll be in touch, next'.

I've been on auditions and I know exactly what you are talking about. Knowing how the game is played is part of winning at the game. Part of the reason why I haven't worked as an actor in years is because I got tired of the indifference and turn-downs. Part of the situation with the industry is there are SOOO many people who want to MAKE it BIG, so many fish in the sea, and being the one with the pole, they can be choosey as to whom they select.

When you go on an audition with the attitude, "I'm gonna do the best I can because that's what satisfies me." you will walk away satisfied regardless if you get the job or not. Of course, that attitude won't for sure put money in your pocket, but you got to live with yourself and build your own self esteem, which will allow you to project confidence in the face of adversity.

Want it sooo bad, it probably the bane of an actor looking for work, but its part of the process, part of the game. How could ya go on if you didn't want it sooo bad?

When you find your "flow" and stay in it, you will be at the right places at the right time, and when you are in the "flow" nothing can stand in the way of the fulfillment of your dreams.

"It's a matter of Mind, if you don't mind, it doesn't matter" quote from a sugar package.

Break a leg!

My god, casting people come from the same pod as HR drones interviewing for IT support specialists.

"Hello. I'm going to ask you a completely baffling question, and then completely fail to display body language which might indicate that you're doing okay or not okay, so that you feel like you're bouncing these nonsense replies off of a brick fucking wall. Incidentally, these questions won't be on any standard 'how to cope with an interview' list or in any class on how to handle an interview or anything. We cooked these up just to fuck with your head, and we patented them."

One company even asked me to /roleplay/ a manager with whom I'd had a nontrivial conflict and tell them what he would have said about me. There's a teensy problem with going into character mode when the only manager you've ever had that conflict with hated you because you were a technically competent female.

I know I've lost jobs due to a complete inability to deal with this kind of approach. If I don't dissolve into a pile of wisecracks, I... uh, dissolve into a pile of honesty. I admire anyone who can put up with the brick wall multiple times in one day. Hell.

Hi Wil,

Like everyone else here I am sorry that in general casting people suck so badly. We all know that you are the best and could probably do just about any roll well if given the chance (though I think I would leave the female ones out, it's funny in Monty Python, but I can only watch so much of that at once). Some people, actually most people do not know the meaning of respect even though they expect it from everyone. Being in Sales I know what it is like to have to be nice to everyone no matter how much of an a-hole they are (I actually have had a person trying to sell me something on the phone hangup on me because I was being so polite they couldn't take it). I think my face as been forced into smile that will never go away whether I want it to or not. Some one else mentioned early and I will repeat because it is true, do you really want to work for people who will treat you like that? I know I wouldn't. Here is hoping that the other auditions went well, and if not, here is to hoping that one well come along soon that will. I can't wait to see you can either on tv or in a movie, then maybe my dad can get over his dislike of Wesley and finally admit you are a great actor. Good Luck.

Eppy

Hmph. If I were giving an audition and some idiot was on a phone or people were coming in and out I'd have a fit.

Doesn't anyone speak up? It's ridiculous. Don't just rant about it on your web site, make a fuss at the audition! Don't let them just walk all over you.

Wil,

Thank you for sharing that inside view. It is, I have to say, a lot different from what I imagined in my girlish fantasies when I was a young teen who imagined herself as being the next Julia Roberts or something...
Hang in there and good luck with your second audition.

Damn That Sucks-
Dude I am way sorry that it didn't work out for you man!
I am still praying for you-

One thing is for sure I am glad that I am not an actor- ya'll go through so much crap!Just to keep on acting!
We Still love you Wil!

Wil isn't alone:
Orson Scott Card points out that James Cameron is a dick every chance he gets. He said that he wouldn't let James Cameron direct Ender's Game because "life is too short".

I'm sorry to hear that your first audition didn't go well. I'm also sorry I missed going to your site on Monday to know to send good vibes your way. However, I wish you the best of luck on the other one!

Anne

Dude! I hear what your saying and I agree....

It's a waste of everyone's time and money.

Buttholes!

Okay, I take it back.

I will buy your DVD for $14.95.

For a gift for someone else, though.

--Staying Wheaton-free 'til 2003.

hi! first of all, i'm impressed that you have commenting. i've been noticing how your website is getting all of this great positive attention and links, which makes me happy. so it's great that despite all of the traffic, i can put my two cents in here.

second, i read through some of meisner's book on your recommendation and am now in acting 1 with roger babb (who acted with joseph chaikin) here at swarthmore. we're learning stanislavski technique right now, of course, and so i just wanted to say that it's awesome reading how your references and explanations of what makes good acting corresponds directly with what we're learning.

my motto for academia is, "you have to choose your bullshit." so i guess the same applies to choosing to be an actor. i'm glad you've got such a vice grip on acting chops and theory (but practical theory, not worthless theory). i'm sure if you ever come to philadelphia to do improv or anything else, we'll come out to see you in force.

Soo sorry for what happened, Wil! I'm not involved in the industry, but that attitude of inconsideration pervades all industries now. Just keep being the great, funny, and sensitive guy you are. Voted lots of times for Good Things. And, as I said before, Nolan and Ryan have a great stepdad! Chin up, dude ;)! Karen

Wil, I know that we keep saying this, but, there will be a part that kicks ass for you some time.
You never know when, but you'll get it. I hate people like that. When did you put the comments on? I was here two hours ago and it wasen't on. Oh well. Wasen't there another audition for you today? Or was that cancelled?
Either way, I'm still sending you mojo.

I feel like that exactly: "It's really tough to do my best, when I feel like the people in the room don't care whether I'm there or not." And I'm not an actor. Just sensitive I guess...

Chalk another similarity up there between "casting in the entertainment industry" and "getting a teaching position at a university." Just keep hanging in there! :-)

It's not like this just on the casting/acting side of the industry... it has spread to other areas as well. It's tiring, I tell you. The moment people start advancing in their entertainment industry careers, they get cocky and look down their noses at you. It's ridiculous. People often forget what the task at hand is... to make a good movie (TV show, whatever). They forget that objective and spend most of their time schmoozing and being all "Hollywood".

This is from my own experience in production, and it's what I've seen. Just IMHO.

it doesn't surprise me that auditioning sucks so much these days. i think it's a damn shame that talented actors like yourself must feel so unwelcome, especially when you're one of the most honest and personable actors i've ever seen. anyway, good luck and keep trying cuz you know your fans still love you :)

It's hard enough getting rejections and rude letters from editors in the mail... I can't imagine having to go through that in person. I imagine acting is a lot like writing in some respects; you're putting bits and pieces of yourself out there for microscopic examination, and to have it ignored or dismissed as being unimportant just... hurts. I wonder sometimes, don't these people who act as if they're doing us a favor (by reading our proposals or sitting in on auditions) grasp the fact that without us they wouldn't have a job at all? Yes, they have to reject people because there might be 100 really talents people for 1 job, but there's never a good reason to not give someone who's pouring their guts out the consideration of attention. It's simple common courtesy.

Tough luck on the auditions Wil, but keep your fingers crossed for the other one. Believe there are decent people out there, positive thinking etc! Good things will come your way eventually :)

To Wednesday, I understand your frustration with HR drones. Speaking as a semi HR person, we're not all the same! Some of us return calls even :)

What's with the on again/off again comments?

James Cameron may be an asshole, but he sure as hell can make a great movie.

Thanks so much Wil for your heartfelt rant! You are certainly not alone. My sister has two auditions tommorrow, and I printed this out for her. I don't know how you guys do it, she's dealt with this bullshit for years, and has no intentions of giving up (I respect her for that). I think your words will put a smile on her face, even if the auditions don't!

I am sorry you had a bad audition. I hope the other one worked out for you. That was rude what they did to you. I know how it feels. My twin and I waited in line for three hours for some modeling thing. When it was time for us to walk on the run way all they kept doing was talking about the girls infront of us. It was a modeling audition and I vowed I would never audition for a company like that again. I am sorry they made you feel like crap. You shouldn't feel that way your a great actor. I am not saying this cause your my favorite actor. So don't give up keep on going.

I can only hope it's not as bad in Children's Television...

Tom Cruise bites! That's why we all love you, Wil.

And heck, I'm sure if you ever get too poor, you can always make money shaking an older Crusher behind for fangirls. Meriko would pay, wouldn'tcha, girl?

I am SO sorry to hear you and others after preparing and coming to the auditions get treated not only un-professionally but badly as well, especially in terms of having to keep silent for fear of being black listed.

Hearing that kind of makes me want to get into your industry just so I can treat people nice. *smirk*

Best wishes to you and other actors, especially those that are in organizations trying to help each other out. And I hope something good comes out of that second audition.

Clue80 said: "Wil you should have went camping instead!"

That's what I did this weekend! And you know, to me, being scrutinized by a pack of 11-year-olds is more nerve-wracking to me than a room full of disinterested casting directors.

They'll actually tell you that they think the masterpiece of an activity that you threw your heart and soul into preparing for them "totally sucks."

My first (and only) equity audition (it was for Fiddler on the Roof), I was so psyched for. I walked in, had a headshot and resume, a song that was in my range... No one acknowledged my presence. No "whenever you're ready" nothing... I sang the song terribly. It was "Smile" - you know - "Smile, though your heart is aching..." How apropos. At the end of the audition, the director looked at my resume. Looked up at me. I had an age range on there - a technique I'd snagged from some "how to audition" book... "Kimberly, how old are you?" "Fif-fif-fifteen."

Boom, end of audition. I say thank you, I leave. I've only done community theatre since, and that minimally. People are too cold. Grr.

I just have to say this. I liked Wesley Crusher. I watched star trek TNG because of you Wil. I know that is probably bad but it is true. I also think that they should have had more episodes about Wesley. I also thought your character should have saved the ship more. I thought they could have made him a little rebeliouse. I kbnow I spelled that wrong.

I don`t know if Wil will ever read this, but i just wanted to say: never give up! Keep doing what you love - this is true for every industry. And if you don`t love what you do - do something else. Health and Happiness, shanni

Big *hugs* to Wil.

I'm sorry your auditions turned out so poorly :( I can't imagine how tough it is to have to go to these auditions and suck up to people who are so disrespectful.

I'm sorry. :(

KB

Wil even though I am not in your profeesion..I can relate in a way. It is hard trying to sell yourself. As an artist your selling something that is in someway apart of you. So when people don't give acknowledgement even if it is just simple politeness can be depressing. But what keeps me going is just the though that bigger and better things are ahead. And possiably if I had gotten that job I would have missed out on the better one. Wil your an awsome guy from everything you have on this site and just what I have saw of your work. You will land yourself something big soon. Look at all of these people who flock to your blog. It is great.

Maybe you should pull a 'nilla ice' on them and bring a baseball bat to every auditon. If they don't live up to your expectations, smash everything in site until they call in a couple fat guys to throw you out. Then go crash on Lenny Kravitz's couch in a booze induced stupor. Or maybe not....

Seriously the only thing you can do to 'fight the man' is be completely oblivious to what they do... live in a zen like state and do your best performance as if the casting director IS making you feel comfortable. Try to react as if he IS reading the lines like he gives a shit. Maybe you can tear their attention away from their cell phones and newspapers. Maybe that's the real test they are putting you though.... To see who can perform in the worst of circumstances. Of course this would be really hard to do... but, you can't change them... they make the rules... you just gotta play the game. Perhaps if you pictured them all naked or something... (if you could keep from laughing).

I've seen stuff I thought you were very good in. You have talent and I admire what you have done with your web site. I can't think of another actor who maintains their own website with the kind of intelligence and witticism I see here. I hope things work out well for you.

Hey, I hope you read this too.... cause I hate writing shit for no reason ;)

"To invent, you need a good imagination and a pile of junk."
Thomas Alva Edison

Wil,

This is probably going to sound strange, but as an actor myself (still looking for work) I find it difficult to get noticed in an audition. Perhaps a great way for you to get noticed when a casting director is too busy to pay attention to you is to force the issue. Tell the blow-hard, "Excuse me... I'm trying to audition up here." I would hazard a guess to say that 99 times out of 100 you won't get the part, but if they aren't paying attention to you, then what does it hurt? Have I mentioned that I haven't had a paying gig since 1995?

Will wurk 4 fuud!

Brad

I live in a dream world too Wil. There's alot of people out there that just don't give a %#*$ about anything or any one. It's depressing for all us careing people but we just have to ceep our head up.

Don't worry about what some big producers say Wil. If they can't tell from your part in "Fag Hag" that you are an A-Grade actor, then who needs them? You could always take up donations to keep this site up so us losers have a place to go. Hell, I'll chip in 5 bucks.

Where there's a Wil, there's a way!

I loved your comments about Tony Sepulveda, and I heartily agree. I complained a bit ago about working at Universal, but he was one of the good things! He's an ex-guide, and very kindly hosts a casting seminar there for tour guides every summer, teaching them audition techniques, and even brings sides for us to prepare quickly and read for him, and then gives notes. I'm not an actor, but I went anyways, just to check it out, and he was really great. Very informative and helpful. He also tries to remember guides and throws a little work their way when he can.
Also, word on the Cameron A-hole mention. I have a friend that writes for Dark Angel, and confirms this on a regular basis. This industry we work in constantly shocks me with its fairly even balance of the best and worst of people. Thanks, Wil, for being one of the goodies!

Thanks for your honesty Wil! I'm the type of dude who (practically) worships the cinematic arts, continually dreaming of being in shoes like yours. But after hearing your truths, it definitely sheds a new light on the subject. Project Greenlight shown a similar (unflattering) light on the mechanics of 'the industry'.
If there's any upside, soon it'll be impossible to stem the tide of low-budget indie films (maybe another 10yrs at most). Then the chasm between the 'hip' kids, and the 'old' will be as obvious in film-production as it is in music today.
Keep pluggin Wil. You're a very gifted & talented dude. You've given provocative performances that made even this hombre cry.
Hopefully I'll get to work with you some day [on a creative indie film].

Captain of the Enterprise!

I was just wondering.... can't you and your buddies start your own production company or something? Write a script, make the movie, and market it? That could definately get the attention of those idiots who give us bad movies like Collateral Damage and Angel Eyes (just saw both and regretted it).

It's no wonder that I'm now looking at British and French movies to see something new and non-generic. The 2 Taxi movies (hilarious!) and Brotherhood of the Wolf are great examples of movie making. Pity not too many people has seen it. (Saw it in a local film festival).

Dude, make your own movie... write!

Wilbabe,

Doesn't it make you feel all warm and tingly inside knowing that all of us are adoring you, sending you MOJO and generally thinking happy thoughts for you! :o)
How many other actors can say they have an entire community rallying around them like you do? ;o)
You rock, studboy.

Is it as bad for writers as actors? My brother is putting the finishing touches on a script he hopes to sell somehow out in LA come summer. He thinks he can get Harry Knowles to read the thing and ...

sorry for the bad news wil.

Well, Wil, that sounded like it really sucks out there for actors. I've long heard that writers get pretty shitty treatment as well (can I say 'shitty?')
My point is that this suckiness really comes out on the screens, both big and small. I would have a very hard time naming 5 movies or TV Shows that I actually would like to watch regularly.
I myself have had stage experience, acting and singing throughout all my school years (right up to high school graduation.) I so dearly loved these two crafts that I do not know if I would ever become involved in either one ever again.
As an actor, I'd have to go through what you went through, Wil.
And as a singer ... With the explosion of boy bands, a fella like me hasn't a shot in hell.

I am having auditions flashbacks I dont like 'em! I stopped auditioning back in 1999 because I didnt like the fact that they treat you like your a virtual character like in Sim City or The Sims. I finally did a huge audition no no and asked why I wasnt going to be hired even though they clearly enjoyed my performance. (It was for a comedy pilot and they were practically pissing their pants laughing. They told me my perofrmance was awesome but that no one was writing scripts for a person like me (plus sized lady talking here). I fell between the bumbling stereotypical laugh- at- her- fat girl and the bold brassy hard ass plus sized lady (ex= Cameron Manheim). In other words I was a normal woman and couldnt be used so I decided I would wirte my own scripts.
My point is its tough out there but Wil I know your talent, I've seen it for years and I know the perfect role will be coming for you shortly. I also know you've been writing and that helps too. Spread your wings man!!! You'll have it all. And like a few people have said here in the comments section, when I am in the position to cast someone in a film I would be honored to have you come in if the script interests you.
P.S I loooove Pee Wee's Big Adventure!!LOL cool title.

I guess everyone else has given their words of encouragement, but I was moved to throw in my puny two cents.

No one should have to go through the audition process being made to feel worthless; you'd think that in a line of work based on creativity and the expansion of mind and limits everyone would treat each other with the respect they deserve. From one dreamer to another: if everyone settled in a reality where people were dismissed as superfluous, we'd be back in the dark ages. There's nothing wrong with a little idealism, damnit! It keeps you pushing for change, even while those cell-phone wielding producers find their lives meaningless and empty.

Okay, so that tangent probably didn't make you feel any better. But hey - you've got an awesome site and a great sense of humor. And I didn't even hate Wesley. *nods as though this holds all the importance in the world*

Best of luck.

Hey! Who's the other Dani posting here! harumph!

Anyhow, Wil, I'm sorry to hear about the crap you have to put up with. I would love to be an actor, but I think the audition process would be the end of me. To have to go into a room, emote your heart out, and to be reject 95% of the time. Egad! I can't image how hard that would be on your self-esteem.

Good luck on the second audition ... I'll keep my fingers crossed for you ...

Sell out, do car commercials. I'm surprised no one's called you yet to do some cellphone ad.

Frankly, I'm shocked at the lack of initiative shown by the entertainment industry in the efforts to bring in Wesley Crusher: Borg Queen.

Sorry you didn't get the call backs. I'll send out some mojo 24/7 from now on, just so you'll have some ready when a new opportunity arises. (It is now 1:35am EST.)

The people behind the table wouldn't know talent if it flew screeching across the room and attached itself to their necks.

Don, best of luck to your brother, but he should go there realizing that everyone in Hollywood has a script. You go to McDonald's there and the cashiers ask "Would you like a script with that today?" He should work hard at trying to sell it, yes, and who knows, maybe Harry Knowles might have some contacts, but he should look into things like having an agent who can help him.

*sigh* Sometimes it makes you wonder why you bother, doesn't it? I did some auditions where I felt like part of a cattle call. By the time I got in there, they were tired, distracted, and just plain not interested in being there anymore. I mean, come on, what's acting if no one is watching?

But you know what? F*** 'em... you went through all the steps and you CARED. If they didn't care enough to pay attention to you, then they missed something wonderful... and that's THEIR loss, not yours.

How do you do it Wil?
I don't know that I could stand it. Its been rough reading the site and getting excited for you and then hearing shit like this. But thanks. The blog review said that these things make us (readers) feel closer to you. It does. And I don't mean it in a "wil's my real friend"-stalker way, but in the way any good work makes you feel closer to the artist. And though you may not consider the blog acting or art etc, it is damn good writing, and you put a lot of work in. It good because it's honest and open.
The acting world sounds a nightmare! Its good that you have people around you that love you, and many thousands that love to hear from you on a daily basis. I'm a psychiatric nurse (which requires me to put myself out there on a daily basis, at risk of personal attacks, physical and otherwise)and I do not know what I would do if I was repeatedly put in the position of auditioning.

I love the site and I love "the good things". I can't wait for more from you. I'll even go and see nemesis.
Chin up, buster.

Hold onto to those seven things...
shaun

Good quote.

I am getting all paranoid now. I SWEAR this thread
was not up last night..I use (GASP) AOL..IF that
would make a difference here...but SOMETHING
SPOOKY is going on ...

I am sorry you did not get the parts..however
everything happens for a reason.(yeah I hear ya'all moaning) Something BETTER will come along.
PROMISE.

Maybe instead of Mojo we send some sort of zap to the casting directors ass or something..

just a thought

Got to meet JB Wil.

Holy hot damn. That man is so cool.
Smells good too.

sleep goooood.
sean astin cool.
Wil is cool.

don't ever doubt it you'll get "that part"

-MKF
"Why are you writting my script Miss Kitty?"-JB

Wil,

Are you just now figuring this stuff out? I'm not trying to bash you, but come on! That is exactly the reason I got out of the business. Didn't matter how good I was or how prepared you were, most directors had their mind made up before I ever got there. But I've got to give you credit, you still hang in there. It's a shame that the good guys never make it. Rock on brother.

You know, if I were a producer or director, I would want every actor who comes into my room to feel extremely comfortable.

Um, Wil. This may be a stupid question, but why aren't you that director or producer? I know you love acting, but maybe your calling is in something else. Start the revolution. I am sure there was a time when George Washington thought "If I were the ruler of a nation..." I am sure there was a day when Buddha thought "You know, if I had my own religion..."

Which is worse, not knowing there is something wrong with the system or knowing and not doing anything about it??

Just a though, I am most likely talking out of my ass. ;-)

Condolences on not getting the part, Wil. *hugs*

It will happen for you yet.

I think that everyone dreams of being an actor, of being on the big screen, of having the wealth and fame, and of traveling the world and having everyone know your name. The big difference is that most of us don't make it past the front door in following that dream.

You're different. You've taken those steps. You've had the balls to stand in front of those people and give your very best. That's saying a lot. Your time will come.

I'm a little off topic here, but hear me out... :)

I just linked you in a blog entry of mine, as well as WS, and mentioned that you'd spoken with his webmaster, and that it was all the big cheese, minus spelling edits by the webmaster.

I linked your weblog, and I linked you at IMDB- and noticed a travesty.

You don't have an IMDB headshot on file?

Is this intentional, or just a grave, grave oversight? :)

-Rick

Uncle Wil is camera shy?????

I'm still in the stands, too bad the umps are close enough that I could shout obsentities during the big game.

Wil,

FWIW, I'm a writer, but I know some of the same frustrations you have experienced when my own creative work is treated less than respectfully by the people who are paying me to do it.

When I've been involved in securing the services of an actor (for voice-overs and narrations) I've always tried to be so polite to the agencies and make the actors as comfortable as possible.

What I usually get in return from most actors is friendly cooperation and outright enthusiasm. What I've sometimes gotten from agencies is attitude -- when they bother to return calls at all.

That being said, there *are* nice people in Hollywood, at some of the agencies, and in some of the facilities around the country where I've done work. The willingness of the *great* folks is often just the tonic needed after a disappointing experience with one of the jerks of the profession. But, this is true of any profession and business community.

My point here is to remember the folks who are nice (Frakes, Stewart, Astin, et al). Their friendship and professionalism can help lift your spirits, and sometimes your talents.

Remember also that the jerks are their own worst enemies.

Wil,

Sorry to hear how disrespectful they were to you. Please accept the following Perl one-liner as a token of my gratitude for all the things you've done, especially crafting the phrase "Uncle Willie went to bootytown".

---BEGIN PERL ONE-LINER---
perl -e'while (1) { print "mojo "}'
----END PERL ONE-LINER----

Now, since you're a Linux guy like me (but I'm trapped in a WinDoze workplace), set yourself up a cron job to run that whenever you've got an audition. Meanwhile, I'll be sending evil brainwaves in the general direction of Hollywood. Please make sure they are delivered to the appropriate parties.

Best of luck in your future endeavors. You WILL kick ass!

Do you ever feel like just walking away from the movie biz? A person with intelligence, drive and talent can find lots of interesting things to do. You've created a truly great website and could, I have no doubt, have a fun, rewarding and stellar career in New Media. As I'm sure you know, it'd offer ample opportunities to continue "building a creative life..."

I'm just wondering.

Nice subject title, I liked that PeeWee Herman movie. (At least I hope that's what you were quoting). :)

You part will come. Karma is building for you, and this site only adds to that karma.

Hee hee hee. Comment number 103, which means no one will ever even see it. My big audition nightmare: They didn't give us the script until it was our turn to audition. I am then told to read for the part of the DUCK! I was supposed to dance. No hints about what sort of dancing either, just a dancing duck. So I impulsively toss out this tango-like scene. Later they said they wanted sort of a waddling conga-type thing. I got the part of the LAKE! (Do NOT ask.)
It was much easier that time I played Banquo, in Macbeth. And (in case you didn't glance at the name) I'm a woman! We took that one to a Shakespeare festival. The judges took off points because they could see my white bra through my white shirt. But I still got "best supporting actor" for my death scene. *sigh* I miss acting. Even that time my entire body was covered in purple make-up. That was fun.

You were skinny when you were on Star Trek originally, but when you returned you were fat. What gives? Did you take a couple years off to eat donuts?
....mmmm krispy kremes

Hey Wil -- I am sorry that your auditions didn't go as well as you had hoped, and that you had to miss a weekend with your family because of preparation. You are a good person. Know that you have many (family, friends, and fans) in your corner.

Okay, can I be a total geek for more-than-half-a-second and say that it absolutely made my day to discover that you and Sean Astin are buddies? I know that the two of you starred in TOY SOLDIERS together, and it's always nice to discover that the actors got along offscreen as well. :) Oooh, plus the fact that Sean was my first
"celebrity crush" when I was seven years old. Woo! (But, hey, you are a cool guy too! ;))

C'mon now...it's much more fun to be an arrogant asshole to everyone...
And Wil..hate to tell ya this but at least you haven't tried to become a tech yet *sniffle* That's not fun... tech or fast food employee...
believe me.. i haven't gotten a difference in treatment *shrug* the world will continue till someone fixes it...
now we just have to find someone to fix it

Wil, I'm sorry things didn't go well for you, and I'm not an actor, but interviewing is interviewing...and perhaps your approach is wrong. Perhaps you should take charge of the situation, instead of allowing people to take charge of you - improvise, develop and rehearse a few improvised lines and fit them in somehow, to illustrate anger and determination - for example, something along the lines of "pay attention while I'm talking to you" or "I don't have time for this...if you don't care, I certainly don't either" - I am sure your vivid imagination could come up with some good improvised lines, that perhaps would startle those who don't pay you the attention that you deserve while auditioning, and make them realize they have a man in front of them who wants the job, and will take charge of whatever situation confronts him, instead of merely being a pawn. I don't mean to sound disrespectful in any way here, cause I always thought you were great as Wesley, only pointing out the absurdity of entering an audition and conducting business as usual, when those who should be paying you respect do not. Take them by surprise! Chew their asses off with polished improvisation! You just might get past first base for a change, instead of coming back home like all the other times! I honestly wish you the best - I want to see you in something good one of these days!!!!

Sluggo (foxjdmulder)

I know this really bummed you out and I'm really sorry but at least you can find solace in knowing that it wasn't your fault. It was the big guys sitting behind the desks and acting like a**holes that spoiled everything. Just forget about it and keep trying your hardest!

I know this really bummed you out and I'm really sorry but at least you can find solace in knowing that it wasn't your fault. It was the big guys sitting behind the desks and acting like a**holes that spoiled everything. Just forget about it and keep trying your hardest!

I know this really bummed you out and I'm really sorry but at least you can find solace in knowing that it wasn't your fault. It was the big guys sitting behind the desks and acting like a**holes that spoiled everything. Just forget about it and keep trying your hardest!

Here's something to be happy about Wil.
You'll be on the cover of TV Guide next week.

nifty

Here's one off the wall, Wil:

When you walk into another audition (maybe not your dream one, but one!), if they start doing that stop your acting and tell them how you feel. More philosophically (I'll try this on even if I sound stupid - I probably am!!), if they won't relate to you on a basic human level what chance is there of actually hiring you as an actor? Being yourself and making clear how you feel in front of them (without getting angry) you might actually get their respect. Worth trying once anyway? Maybe this is all rubbish, but maybe it resounds with you as a good idea? I dunno, just a suggestion.

Well, the comments by the 2 assholes directly above are worth about as much as the TP they flush after use...actually, THEY are worth about as much. I'm sure "johnnie two times"'s biggest claim to fame is something along the lines of riding a bike once for 5 seconds before falling off. As for "Jeff", BOCK BOCK BOCK comes to mind, since the bozo isn't brave enough to leave a real email address. Don't put up with their shit Wil, and don't put up with anymore during auditions either!!!

Sluggo aka FoxJD

I log on here for the same reason as I log on to other people's sites - because it's interesting to see what other people are up to. I don't think the "2 comments" are very fair. For instance, I have talked to musicians who trained with me (I don't play anymore), and, even though they like music, they are put off by the buddy-network that seems to prevail in the London music world ("it's not what you know, it's who you know"). So it's possible to be put off certain aspects of a profession without hating what that profession is about!

It may sometimes be a hindrance to retaining a sense of present reality if you're being applauded for what you did 10 years ago (and there must be celebrity infatuation elements occasionally too, as is human nature) - that crossed my mind a few times. But there's no reason to believe that a) this is affecting Wil in any meaningful way, or that b) it's an excuse to try to 'cut him down'. There may be no 'up' to cut him 'down' from!

Also, if anyone was serious about Hollywood being a good barometer of acting ability, they need to seriously look again!!! It's all about various appeal factors, it seems to me. You fit into the right boxes and you get the job. That's as far as ability is concerned. However, ultimately, even that doesn't matter. You choose something to do and you do it. And you hope that, if people have anything to say about this, it will be supportive of your efforts.

okay... i realize that this is an old post... and there is very little point in this... but for fuck's sake man...
have you ever had to work in McDonald's drive through???