L.A. Casting Director Matt Barry Looks Back While Embracing New Challenges

"An actor tries to figure out why they didn't get the job. And the truth is, you should go in with the attitude of 'Did I do what I wanted to do?' The rest is out of your hands and I wish I had known that as an actor to just let it go and not wait by the phone. 'Hey, did you get feedback?'

Los Angeles Casting Director Matthew Barry

Now in his fifth decade in the business, Los Angeles casting director Matt Barry continues to reinvent himself. Like other industries, Hollywood has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and Barry has needed to adjust–prepared to accelerate with projects once given the green light. In his conversation with Dave, Barry offers his thoughts on the first presidential debate before looking back at a multi-faceted career.

As a teenager, Barry was cast to play the drug addicted son of an opera singer, portrayed by Jill Clayburgh. Barry speaks on the issues of a young actor exploring sexuality and drug use. We share his favorite scene from La Luna, an improv inspired by the firing of Yankees manager Billy Martin. He describes the mindset necessary for today’s actors to survive in the business and the key skills to master in order to compete. Barry shares the pitfalls of early fame and the discovery of a new career. The new challenge of casting director led him to opening doors for a mostly unknown Rachel McAdams and Kat Williams. He also explains the loyalty that has been the foundation of his friendship with Nick Cassavetes.

The next challenge for Barry will be as a producer while continuing to inspire the next generation of performers as a successful acting coach.

The Dave Lewis Show
The Dave Lewis Show
L.A. Casting Director Matt Barry Looks Back While Embracing New Challenges
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