Beyond the Casting Call: How ‘Putain’ Signals a Revolution in Talent Discovery
The Belgian series Putain, a Streamz Original, isn’t just garnering critical acclaim and awards – including eight Ensors in February 2026 – it’s quietly pioneering a new approach to talent acquisition. The show’s casting process, as detailed in recent interviews, moves beyond traditional methods, suggesting a potential shift in how the entertainment industry finds its next generation of stars.
From Street Casting to Authentic Representation
Traditionally, casting relied heavily on agencies and open calls. However, Putain’s casting director, Lina Miftah, recognized a significant gap: the lack of representation for young people who don’t already have connections within the industry. She actively sought talent outside established networks, believing that many potential actors weren’t even aware of opportunities available to them.
This approach led to the discovery of Liam Jacqmin, the show’s lead actor, quite literally on the street. Miftah spotted him while walking in Brussels and, despite initially losing his contact information, eventually reconnected through a mutual acquaintance. This unconventional method highlights a growing desire for authenticity and a willingness to look beyond conventional pathways.
The Power of Improvisation and Workshops
Finding talent is only the first step. Putain’s process didn’t stop at a simple audition. Jacqmin, described as initially “superverlegen” (exceptionally shy), was paired with Eva Kamanda for an improvisation exercise. This allowed the casting team to assess his natural talent and potential, even beyond polished performance skills.
Following initial selection, actors participated in workshops led by experienced professionals like Tijmen Govaerts. This investment in development underscores a commitment to nurturing raw talent and shaping it for the demands of the role. This mirrors a broader trend in the industry towards providing more comprehensive support for emerging actors.
A Reflection of Real-Life Experiences
The series itself, created by Frederik Daem and Zwangere Guy, draws heavily from their own experiences in Brussels. This commitment to authenticity extends to the casting process, prioritizing individuals who can genuinely embody the stories being told. The writing team, which similarly includes Deben Van Dam and Nadège Bibo-Tansia, was inspired by their own lives, contributing to the series’ realistic portrayal of life in the city.
This focus on lived experience is increasingly significant as audiences demand more diverse and relatable stories. Casting directors are under pressure to move beyond typecasting and find actors who can bring depth and nuance to their roles.
The Hustinx Prize and Recognition for Innovative Storytelling
The creative team behind Putain – Frederik Willem Daem, Deben Van Dam and Nadège Bibo-Tansia – were awarded the Hustinx Prize for Dramaschrijvers in 2025, recognizing their innovative approach to storytelling. This award further validates the series’ impact and its contribution to the evolution of dramatic writing.
Future Trends in Talent Discovery
The success of Putain suggests several potential trends in talent discovery:
- Hyperlocal Scouting: More productions will actively scout for talent in the communities they are portraying, prioritizing authenticity and representation.
- Improvisation-Based Auditions: Emphasis will shift from memorized lines to assessing an actor’s ability to react, improvise, and embody a character organically.
- Investment in Actor Development: Workshops and mentorship programs will become standard practice, providing emerging actors with the skills and support they need to succeed.
- Social Media as a Scouting Tool: While acknowledging the limitations of relying solely on social media, casting directors will increasingly use platforms to identify potential talent and build relationships.
Pro Tip:
For aspiring actors, don’t limit yourself to traditional avenues. Seek out local theater groups, community workshops, and independent film projects. Networking and building relationships are just as important as formal training.
FAQ
Q: Is traditional casting becoming obsolete?
A: Not entirely, but it’s evolving. Traditional methods still have a place, but they are being supplemented by more proactive and inclusive approaches.
Q: What is the Hustinx Prize?
A: The Hustinx Prize for Dramaschrijvers is a prestigious award recognizing excellence in dramatic writing, alternating between Flemish and Dutch writers.
Q: Where can I watch Putain?
A: Putain is available on Streamz.
Q: What role did Zwangere Guy play in the series?
A: Zwangere Guy co-created the series with Frederik Daem, drawing inspiration from his own life experiences in Brussels.
Did you know? Deben Van Dam, the director of Putain, is originally from the town of Truien, Belgium.
Want to learn more about the evolving landscape of the film and television industry? Explore our other articles here. Share your thoughts on the future of casting in the comments below!
