Be a Contestant on "American Gladiators"

American Gladiators is not for the faint of heart! If you think you have the strength and endurance to take on the Gladiators and come out victorious, give this show a try. According to NBC, they're looking for "weekend warrior types who are big, bad, and athletic."

Open Casting Calls

The best way to get in front of a producer or casting agent and make an impression is to attend an open casting call. Whenever a new season is announced, you'll be able to find a list of scheduled casting calls at the American Gladiators casting page.

The lineup for casting calls begins two hours before the call begins, so get there early. Wear your workout gear and be prepared to complete physical tests that will challenge your strength, athleticism, and speed. Bring a towel, a water bottle, and a change of clothing – you'll be working up a sweat!

You'll also have to download and fill out an application form, and bring it with you to the casting call. Take along a good photograph of yourself as well, clearly labeled on the back with your name, address, and telephone number. (Tip: Instead of writing on the back of the photo itself, which can smear or cause indentations on the image, write your info on a small, plain, adhesive label and stick that on the back of the picture.)

Mail-In Applications

If you don't live near any of the cities where an open casting call is being held, or can't make it to one for any reason, you can still apply by mailing in an application, along with a videotape.

The Application Form

Whether you're attending a call or sending a videotape, you'll have to fill in the application form in full. Print clearly, using dark-colored ink, and only write on one side of the paper. If you need more room for your answers, use blank pieces of paper and attach them to the form, making sure that you clearly indicate which question(s) you're responding to on the blank paper.

The form itself is quite lengthy, covering your hobbies, interests, employment, background, etc. as well as lots of information to read. Producers have the right to do background checks to verify your information, so make sure everything is accurate. They can also decide not to accept your application if you leave even one question blank.

You'll be asked to sign a certificate of veracity, an applicant waiver and release form, and an emergency medical release form. All of these documents are included in the application form download, and must accompany your videotape application, or be presented at an open casting call.

Eligibility

In order to be considered as a contestant on American Gladiators, you must:

• Be 18 years of age or older


• Be a legal resident of the United States


• Not be a candidate for public office, nor become a candidate for one full year after any episode you appear on airs


• Not be employed by NBC or any of its subsidiaries, or any program sponsor, or any other company related to the show (this also applies to immediate family members, or those living in the same household as you)


• Not have appeared on the program in the past

This is just an overview of the requirements – for a more detailed account, please check the application form.

The Videotape

If you choose to apply by mail, you must include a 5-minute videotape with your completed application form. Accepted formats include VHS, DVD, and mini-DV. Start the video off by stating your name, hometown, and occupation – the rest is up to you! NBC recommends the following, however:

• Have someone else tape you – don't try to make the entire video yourself.


• Show them what makes you unique and different from all of the other applications.


• They want to see interesting aspects of your life, your hobbies, your friends, your job, etc.


• They also want to see you in action! Since this is a physical competition, show them what you're made of.


• Have fun and make sure your true personality comes across.

Things to Avoid

In your videotape, steer clear of:

• Copyrighted materials
• Singing or music
• Dangerous stunts
• Harming other people or animals

Videotapes will not be returned to applicants, regardless of whether they are chosen for the show or not. If you want to have a copy for yourself, make a duplicate before mailing your application in.

Application Checklist

After you've filled in all of the forms and made your videotape, use the following checklist to make sure you've got everything you need in your application package:

1. Application form
2. Certificate of Veracity
3. Applicant Waiver and Release form
4. Emergency Medical Release form
5. A labeled photo of yourself
6. A recent resume
7. Your videotape

All forms must be filled in completely and signed. Don't forget to label your videotape and photograph, and make sure the contact information on your resume is updated.

Where to Send It

When you've got everything ready to go, mail your application package to:

Am Glad Productions
American Gladiators Casting
10061 Riverside Drive
Box # 749
Toluca Lake, Ca. 91602

Good luck!