Open Casting for HBO’s “Winning Time” Season 2
Are you a basketball enthusiast with a height of at least 6-foot-2? Do you dream of working in Hollywood? Well, here’s your chance! HBO is currently holding open casting auditions for the second season of “Winning Time.” This hit series, created by showrunner Adam McKay, has captivated audiences despite receiving criticism from basketball legends Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Based on Jeff Pearlman’s book, the first season of “Winning Time” followed Magic Johnson’s rookie season in the NBA after the Lakers were acquired by Dr. Jerry Buss. Now, HBO is gearing up for the highly-anticipated second season that will explore the fierce rivalry between the Lakers and the Boston Celtics during the 1980s.
An Exciting Season Ahead
The initial season of “Winning Time” chronicled the Lakers’ journey to their NBA championship victory in 1980. Along the way, the team faced numerous challenges, including the tragic bicycle accident that nearly took the life of head coach Jack McKinney. Additionally, the show highlighted the ascension of Pat Riley from a struggling TV commentator to an essential member of the coaching staff. HBO’s decision to greenlight a second season of “Winning Time” suggests that fans can expect a captivating narrative that explores the intense Lakers-Celtics rivalry—a rivalry that originated in college when Magic Johnson’s Michigan State defeated Larry Bird’s Indiana State in the 1979 March Madness championship game.
Bringing Legends to Life
“Winning Time” is known for its exceptional casting choices that bring legendary basketball players to life on the small screen. In the first season, actor Quincy Isaiah received widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Magic Johnson, despite not having a basketball background. He was able to capture the essence of the player thanks to the skillful work of Hollywood’s magic-makers. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, on the other hand, was convincingly portrayed by Solomon Hughes, a former college basketball standout.
Notable Actors and Their Encounters with Lakers Legends
“Winning Time” boasts an impressive lineup of actors who have taken on the roles of real-life Lakers figures. John C. Reilly masterfully portrayed team owner Jerry Buss, while Adrien Brody embodied the charismatic coach Pat Riley. Jason Clarke skillfully portrayed the iconic Jerry West, and Jason Seigel charmed audiences as Paul Westhead. Other notable actors include Gaby Hoffman as Claire Rothman, Hadley Robinson as Jeanie Buss, and Tracy Letts as Jack McKinney, the architect of the fast-paced basketball style synonymous with the Showtime Lakers. Notably, the creative team took some artistic liberties by casting Sally Field as Jerry Buss’s mother, despite her passing before he acquired the team.
The Rivalries Continue
The second season of “Winning Time” is set to begin filming in Los Angeles in August 2022, with production expected to wrap up early in 2023. While many roles have already been filled, HBO is still searching for talented actors to portray other members of the iconic 1980s Showtime Lakers. Specifically, they are seeking actors to play the roles of James Worthy, Byron Scott, Kurt Rambis, and Mitch Kupchak. In addition, the casting call includes the search for an actor to portray Robert Parish from the Boston Celtics, one of the Lakers’ most formidable opponents during that era. The casting team has already secured actors for the roles of other Celtics players, such as Kevin McHale and Dennis Johnson, whom Lakers fans passionately despised.
Conclusion
“Winning Time” has shown its commitment to bringing the fascinating history of the Lakers to life on the small screen. With the success of the first season, anticipation is high for the upcoming season, where fans can expect an intense exploration of the Lakers-Celtics rivalry that defined an era. The exceptional casting choices, combined with engaging storytelling, will transport viewers back to the golden age of basketball.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will there be more seasons of “Winning Time”?
As of now, HBO has greenlit only the second season of “Winning Time.” However, if the show continues to resonate with audiences and deliver strong ratings, it is possible that more seasons will be commissioned.
2. Can individuals without prior acting experience audition for “Winning Time”?
Yes, HBO is open to casting talented individuals with or without previous acting experience. The important thing is to showcase your passion, dedication, and ability to bring the characters to life.
3. How can I stay updated on future casting opportunities for the show?
To stay informed about casting calls and future opportunities related to “Winning Time,” it is advisable to follow official HBO channels and keep an eye on reputable casting websites. This will ensure that you don’t miss out on any potential auditions.
4. Will the series explore the personal lives of the Lakers players?
While “Winning Time” primarily focuses on the Lakers’ achievements on the court and their intertwined rivalries, it may touch upon certain aspects of the players’ personal lives. However, the main emphasis is on capturing the excitement and drama of the basketball games that defined a generation.
5. Is it necessary to resemble the real-life Lakers players in order to audition?
While physical resemblance can be helpful for certain roles, it is not a necessity for securing an audition. Casting decisions are often based on a combination of factors, including acting abilities, chemistry, and overall suitability for the character. So, even if you don’t resemble the real-life players, don’t let that discourage you from auditioning if you believe you can bring the character to life convincingly.
