Victor Jenkins is one of the UK’s leading casting directors, with an impressive career spanning acclaimed television and feature films. Their credits include Broadchurch, Fleabag and Sherwood, where he helped bring together some of British drama’s most memorable ensembles. They are currently casting for a feature film.

Details below:

FEATURE FILM
CASTING CALL
‘JOSEPH MERRICK (working title)’

Dir: Jack Huston
Producers: Mike Medavoy, Kate Cohen, David Dobkin, Jack Huston
Executive Producer: Michael Peterson
Production Company: Phoenix Pictures
Casting: Victor Jenkins Casting (VJC) Ltd
Shoot: 6 weeks within Sept – Dec 2026 in the UK

Role: Joseph Merrick

We are currently seeking a male actor between the ages of 20–40 from the disability and/or visible difference communities, or with other physical differences, to portray the lead role of Joseph Merrick.

We believe that lived experience of difference in any form can bring an additional layer of authenticity and emotional depth to the portrayal of Joseph, particularly in relation to the physical and social realities the role explores. The role will involve extensive prosthetic makeup work designed by acclaimed prosthetics designer Barrie Gower.

Logline: During the final weeks of his life, Joseph is invited to Fawsley Hall Estate, a world away from the London hospital he has long called home. There, a young housekeeper is assigned to his care, and an unlikely friendship sparks. Between glimpses of the life that shaped him, and the quiet grace of his final days—this is a story of resilience and dignity, a moving exploration of the man behind the disfigurement.

We are consulting and in partnership with the Proteus Syndrome Foundation to help ensure Joseph’s condition is portrayed with care, respect, and authenticity. We are also engaging with additional charitable and advocacy organizations within the visible difference and disability communities.

This production is committed to inclusive and diverse casting, and we strongly encourage submissions from performers of all backgrounds and levels of experience, whether able-bodied or disabled.

Please apply by emailing casting@vjcltd.co.uk – We will review your application then be in touch with more details/audition materials. This is a paid opportunity.

THANK YOU

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