Is it best to audition first or last?

Is it best to audition first or last?

Exploring the psychology, timing, and strategy behind audition order in the entertainment industry

(By Ray Reese)

(Photo: Cottonbro Studio | Pexels)

The Psychology of First Impressions: Does Going First Give You the Edge?

When it comes to auditions, many performers dread being the first to step into the room. It can feel like stepping into the unknown, setting the bar without knowing what others might bring. However, psychology suggests that first impressions are incredibly powerful. According to studies in cognitive psychology, we tend to remember the first and last items in a sequence more vividly than the middle — this is known as the primacy and recency effect.

In casting, this means the first person to audition might stick in the memory of the casting director simply because they were first. If the performance is strong, it can set a positive tone for the rest of the session. For example, in the casting process of The Office, actor Rainn Wilson was one of the first to audition for the role of Dwight Schrute. His offbeat delivery and bold choices made a lasting impression, helping him land the part despite stiff competition.

Being first can also signal confidence. Walking in early and ready to go shows professionalism and enthusiasm, which can work in your favor. On the flip side, if nerves get the better of you, a weak early performance can be hard to overcome — especially when seen before other stronger auditions.

Many actors swear by the idea that going last gives them a unique advantage. The final performer benefits from all that came before — by observing patterns, adjusting delivery, or simply standing out as the final memory in the minds of decision-makers.

Take Jennifer Lawrence, for instance. When she auditioned for Winter’s Bone, she was among the last to read for the role. The casting director was nearly ready to make a decision, but Lawrence’s gritty, emotionally raw performance stole the show — ultimately winning her the role and launching her career. The recency effect played a role here; she left a strong final impression, which lingered in the minds of the casting panel.

Going last also allows you to assess the energy of the room and make calculated choices. You may have more time to prepare mentally and observe how others are being received. However, there’s also the risk of the casting team being fatigued by the end of a long day. If your performance isn’t dynamic, it may be overlooked in a haze of exhaustion.

While first and last may seem ideal, many actors find themselves in the middle of the audition schedule. Unfortunately, this position often lacks the memorable impact that bookends enjoy. According to casting director Bonnie Gillespie, “It’s not that people in the middle can’t shine — it’s just that they have to work a little harder to stand out.”

One example of beating this middle curse is Tom Hiddleston’s audition for Thor. He wasn’t first or last, but his preparation and distinct interpretation of Loki ensured he made an impression. Still, the odds of being overlooked increase when you fall in the middle — especially if your performance is solid but not spectacular.

The takeaway? If you find yourself in the middle, you’ll need to go the extra mile — bold choices, clear character work, and memorable delivery — to avoid being lost in the shuffle.

Casting directors often have their own opinions about audition timing. Some prefer to cast early so they can move forward confidently. Others wait to see the full range of options before making a decision.

In interviews, several casting professionals have emphasized that they don’t necessarily favor first or last — they favor prepared actors. As David Rapaport, casting director for Riverdale and The Flash, says, “The actor who books the role is usually the one who comes in and owns it, not the one who’s first or last.”

That said, Rapaport admits he sometimes has to rewatch early auditions to compare them with later ones. This means that a stellar early audition isn’t automatically disadvantaged, but rather kept in consideration — especially if it stands out.

Many actors have shared their personal experiences with audition timing. Some find being first eliminates anxiety. Others prefer the time to mentally prepare and observe.

For example, Viola Davis has spoken about the importance of preparation over placement. “It’s not when you walk in, it’s what you walk in with,” she says. Similarly, Bryan Cranston once shared that his breakthrough came when he stopped trying to “get the job” and instead focused on giving a complete performance, regardless of the timing.

On forums like Reddit’s r/acting or Backstage.com, actors swap stories about their successes and failures at various points in the audition day. While no consensus emerges, one common thread stands out: confidence, preparation, and authenticity matter more than position.

In commercial auditions, casting is often rapid and based on looks or a quick vibe, meaning early or late timing can sway things more dramatically. For instance, if a casting team sees the “right look” early on, they may make a quick choice.

Film and TV, however, tend to involve more deliberation. Timing still matters, but the performance takes center stage. In major film casting, where there may be callbacks and screen tests, being first or last in the initial round may have less impact than in a one-shot commercial read.

An example of this is Millie Bobby Brown’s audition for Stranger Things. Her tape — viewed remotely and not timed in a traditional queue — rose above due to the sheer strength of her performance, not the order it was seen.

With the rise of self-tapes and virtual auditions, the dynamics of “first or last” have shifted. Actors submit tapes on their own schedule, and casting directors view them in batches or at their own pace. In this context, quality matters far more than order.

However, there are still small advantages to submitting early. Being in the first batch of tapes may mean more undivided attention. Casting directors are less fatigued and possibly more open-minded. Late submissions may be skipped altogether if a strong candidate has already emerged.

Still, it’s important not to rush. A rushed self-tape that’s early won’t outshine a polished, later submission. Balance is key: be timely, but prioritize performance.

Actors with agents or managers might have some control over when they’re scheduled. If so, should you ask to be first or last?

If you’re confident and well-prepared, asking for an early slot might work to your advantage. If you thrive after watching the room and adapting, later might be better. It all depends on your personal performance style.

Some actors request a slot after lunch, when the casting team is refreshed. Others aim for the final spot, hoping to close strong. Ultimately, if you’re flexible and adaptable, you can make any slot work in your favor.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question. Both first and last have their perks:

Auditioning First can create a strong first impression and show confidence.

Auditioning Last may help you leave a lasting impact and benefit from observing others.

That said, the biggest factors in booking a role remain preparation, clarity, confidence, and individuality. As Bryan Cranston so wisely said, “Go into the room to present what you do — not to get a job.”

So whether you’re first, last, or somewhere in the middle, remember: your talent, professionalism, and preparation are what truly count.

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