Thank You CBS

In September, CBS announced a new initiative expanding its representation and inclusion programs to launch a new CBS Performers with Disabilities Talent Initiative.  The opportunities are envisioned in series regular, guest star or costarring roles in current series and pilots, playing characters specifically written with a disability, as well as roles that do not specify one.

In 2019 the Ruderman Family Foundation campaigned to increase audition opportunities for performers with disabilities and improve the portrayal of disabilities in television.  CBS was the first network to sign the pledge to increase the number of roles that cast actors with disabilities. 

The current initiative includes expanded database of performers with disabilities which has been created at the network  in consultation with advocacy groups, outreach, independent research and open calls. These new resources have been applied to programs out of the 2022 -2023 broadcast and pilot season.

Claudia Lyon, executive VP of talent and casting at CBS Entertainment said “By focusing on professional growth and supporting these performers, this initiative helps to provide opportunities and much-needed exposure in the industry.  There are so many talented performers available who are often overlooked and are not being considered for roles, so the goal with this initiative is to help bridge that gap.”

The CBS Performers with Disabilities Talent Initiative also includes various career advancement programs over the course of the broadcast season, including Casting 101 which offers career guidance on what casting directors are looking for during auditions, how casting directors discover and track talent, and a Q&A session with CBS executives.  Other programs include Acting Workshops and Open Call. New and up-and-coming performers with disabilities can benefit from the yearly open call before each pilot season.

Well done CBS, I’ll be tuning in!