Sidebar: A Suits Watch Podcast – Episode Summary: "Casting Suits with Bonnie Zane"

Release Date: November 26, 2024
Hosts: Patrick J. Adams and Sarah Rafferty
Guest: Bonnie Zane, Esteemed Casting Director

1. Introduction

In this episode of Sidebar: A Suits Watch Podcast, hosts Patrick J. Adams and Sarah Rafferty dive deep into the intricate world of casting for the acclaimed TV series "Suits." Joining them is Bonnie Zane, a casting powerhouse whose expertise significantly shaped the show's iconic ensemble.

2. Meet Bonnie Zane

Bonnie Zane brings over three decades of casting experience to the table, having worked on a myriad of successful television shows across various genres. Her exceptional ability to assemble dynamic and cohesive casts has earned her widespread respect in the industry.

• Bonnie Zane (02:15): "Bonnie's work has left a lasting impact across genres."

With notable projects like Mad About You, NewsRadio, Sports Night, and Ed, Bonnie's collaboration with her longtime partner, Gail Pillsbury, has produced standout shows such as Close to My Heart and Pretty Little Liars. Her pivotal role in casting "Suits" ensured the chemistry and depth that carried the series through nine memorable seasons.

• Bonnie Zane (03:23): "She won two ARDIOS awards. Do you know what the RDOS awards are?"

3. The Art of Casting "Suits"

Bonnie Zane discusses the nuanced process of casting "Suits," highlighting the importance of chemistry, depth, and the right connections among actors.

• Bonnie Zane (03:37): "Bonnie was the person who saw the potential in our original cast and brought together a group of actors who had the chemistry, depth, and connection that helped carry 'Suits' through nine memorable seasons and 134 episodes."

Patrick and Sarah express their admiration for Bonnie's work, emphasizing how her casting decisions played a crucial role in the show's success.

• Patrick J. Adams (04:20): "I love this podcast. It's my little escape every morning on the way to work and on the way home."

4. Bonnie's Journey to Casting

Bonnie shares her journey into casting, detailing how she transitioned from her early career struggles to becoming a revered casting director.

• Bonnie Zane (06:07): "I moved out here directly out of college, and I went to college with a film and radio major."

• Patrick J. Adams (07:30): "I used to always sit down with her and say, what are you doing? And I would make my own lists for her. And she says, you have a knack for this."

Her initial foray into casting began with a temporary position that swiftly turned into a long-term role, leading to opportunities on shows like "Mad About You" and "NewsRadio."

• Patrick J. Adams (08:43): "And then one week later, I got a call from Larry Charles, who said, Mark Hirschfeld just recommended you for a position on 'Mad About You.'"

5. The Casting Process for Key Characters

Bonnie delves into the casting specifics for pivotal characters in "Suits," sharing anecdotes about auditions and decision-making.

Casting Mike Ross and Harvey Specter

• Patrick J. Adams (20:04): "Yeah, right away. And I think you know this right away. The first person that Gail Pillsbury said for Mike Ross was Patrick J."

Their immediate recognition of the right actors for Mike and Harvey set the tone for the show's dynamic.

• Bonnie Zane (21:05): "How did you know, though? How do you know Gabriel are going to have it?"

Rick Hoffman as Louis Litt

Rick Hoffman's audition stood out significantly, showcasing his unique talent and securing his role as Louis Litt.

• Patrick J. Adams (25:55): "I knew Rick as an actor, and for that role, he absolutely brought Louis Litt into the room."

• Bonnie Zane (25:36): "Rick's audition was nothing short of extraordinary."

Abby Spencer and Wendell Pierce

Abby Spencer and Wendell Pierce's casting further enriched the ensemble, each bringing their distinct flair to their respective roles.

• Patrick J. Adams (49:45): "Abby Spencer's story was she was working on Mad Men, and Aaron knew her and loved her."

• Patrick J. Adams (50:43): "Wendell was a dream. Aaron called me and said the writers room would love it to be Wendell Pierce."

6. Audition Anecdotes and Insights

The discussion sheds light on the emotional and technical aspects of casting, highlighting moments of spontaneity and deep understanding between casting directors and actors.

• Patrick J. Adams (13:48): "We walked out of there afterwards and we were, like, just holding each other."

• Bonnie Zane (14:43): "Do you ever swear at us? Do you ever?"

The hosts recount their personal experiences during auditions, emphasizing the support and camaraderie that Bonnie fosters during the casting process.

• Sarah Rafferty (29:09): "And Lily wasn't having it. She was like, mom, you can't do that. It's against the law."

7. Transitioning to "Suits LA"

Bonnie provides insights into the transition from the original "Suits" series to the upcoming spin-off, "Suits LA," discussing the challenges and excitement of assembling a new ensemble while maintaining the show's essence.

• Patrick J. Adams (52:40): "It's been a hard, hard time for everyone... This was the perfect time, place, energy."

• Bonnie Zane (53:47): "Shooting in LA and the differences there."

The conversation highlights the continuity and evolution of the show's universe, ensuring that "Suits LA" retains the charm and depth of its predecessor while introducing fresh dynamics.

• Patrick J. Adams (55:24): "We're casting... we have to think about the weight of the character."

8. Conclusion and Reflections

As the episode wraps up, Patrick and Sarah express their deep gratitude towards Bonnie Zane for her invaluable contributions to "Suits." They reflect on the importance of luck, timing, and the right connections in creating a successful ensemble.

• Patrick J. Adams (57:27): "Because one person could be off doing something and just not being there for their audition."

• Sarah Rafferty (57:38): "We're so grateful to you for coming in today."

Bonnie Zane leaves the conversation with a heartfelt thanks, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that defines the casting process for "Suits."

• Bonnie Zane (57:46): "Thank you for choosing the direction. Very different."

Notable Quotes

• Bonnie Zane (03:33): "Bonnie has won every award that I can give her."

• Patrick J. Adams (10:16): "If I get a pilot, for instance, and they say, you're going to cast this pilot, I always test myself with the first person I think of if they're going to get the role or not."

• Sarah Rafferty (38:07): "I was like, I really wanted to make sure that Donna wasn't somebody that was pining for Harvey, but that was a choice that I only made after I got the pineapple."

Final Thoughts

This episode offers a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes magic of casting "Suits," highlighting Bonnie Zane's pivotal role in assembling an ensemble that resonated with audiences worldwide. Through heartfelt anecdotes and professional insights, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the meticulous and intuitive process that brought "Suits" to life.

For fans and aspiring casting directors alike, Bonnie Zane's expertise and passion serve as an inspiring testament to the art of casting in television.

Disclaimer: This summary excludes advertisement segments and focuses solely on the podcast's content to provide a comprehensive overview of the episode's key discussions and insights.