Season 1 of “Jury Duty” was a success by employing the unique idea where everyone, except one person, was a hired actor. The show’s producers faced new hurdles in Season 2.
In the second season, the setting shifts from a courtroom to a “Company Retreat.” The concept remains unchanged: all participants are hired actors, except for Anthony Norman, who believes he’s working as a temporary employee at a family-owned hot sauce company called “Rockin’ Grandmas.”
Casting director Susie Farris, returning for “Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat,” sought actors who were quick-witted, intelligent, funny, and grounded.
Farris specifically looked for improv actors capable of creating believable characters with a history at “Rockin’ Grandmas.”
Casting for the wannabe CEO Dougie Jr., son of CEO Doug Womack (played by Jerry Hauck), proved challenging. “He was tricky one to cast,” Farris noted. “We wanted someone with a stoner vibe.”
Among many funny applicants, Alex Bonifer was a standout. “He’s a genius with improv. He’s been a Groundling forever, and his in-person callback was hilarious,” Farris commented.
Bonifer, known for “Kevin Can F**k Himself,” posed the risk of being recognized due to his slight fame.
To avoid recognition, Bonifer grew a beard and used makeup. “Everybody felt like we could get away with it. And he was so deserving of the part,” said Farris.
Similarly, Stephanie Hodge, playing company accountant “Helen,” was on Farris’s radar for years. Although she didn’t land a role seven years ago, Farris believed Hodge was perfect for “Company Retreat.”
During a focus group mixing actors and non-actors, Hodge stood out. “She has the ability to be so grounded and so believable,” said showrunner Nick Hatton. “She has a big heart and can deliver humor with a gruff edge.”
Casting Anthony Norman, the show’s unaware hero, followed a process similar to Season 1. “There were thousands of tapes. You begin the Zoom interview process,” Hatton explained. “We wanted people looking for a temporary gig.”
Norman’s compassion, curiosity, and kindness struck Hatton. “He has, much like Ronald, a degree of self-possession, which is remarkable for his age. This allows us to engage with him effectively,” Hatton said.
Revealing the truth to Norman was “very nerve-racking,” Hatton described. “It’s the culmination of everything. You hope he receives it well, as the show depends on his appreciation.”
A highlight for Hatton was when Norman expressed that his favorite character was “Helen.”
Hatton believes this moment illustrates the genuine connections Norman made with the cast. “That is ultimately the heart of the show,” Hatton stated. “Seeing how Anthony loved them makes it all worthwhile.”
