Mike Flanagan Reveals 1,800 Auditions to Find the Perfect Carrie Lead

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Summary

  • Director Mike Flanagan found lead actor Summer H. Howell for Carrie after 1,800 auditions.
  • Howell’s performance in Carrie will be unlike any other portrayal of the character.
  • The Carrie adaptation on Prime Video will boast an impressive cast, including Matthew Lillard.

Mike Flanagan offers a behind-the-scenes look at the demanding casting phase for his upcoming Stephen King series adaptation of ‘Carrie’ on Prime Video, hinting at an innovative approach from its main actor. With multiple adaptations in progress like ‘The Dark Tower’, the upcoming ‘The Life of Chuck’, and the yet-unnamed ‘The Exorcist’ movie, Mike Flanagan is currently one of the most active filmmakers. Although he has a strong track record with adaptations, it’s Stephen King’s 1974 novel, ‘Carrie’, that horror enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating to watch on television.

1974 marked my introduction to Stephen King’s novel “Carrie,” a chilling tale that found its way onto the silver screen two years later with Sissy Spacek as the introverted yet psychically gifted protagonist. The film, directed by Brian De Palma, subtly altered some of the more graphic scenes from the book, such as Carrie’s act of killing her mother, opting for a less visually jarring portrayal that still retained the essence of the story.

For her audition to play the tormented teen, Spacek deliberately adopted an unkempt appearance, donning a worn dress and foregoing dental hygiene. The film’s makeup team initially attempted to improve her looks, not realizing she intentionally made herself look worse. Fortunately, her foresight paid off, resulting in Spacek securing the lead role and earning six Oscar nominations for her captivating performance.

Mike Flanagan Reveals the Hardship of Finding Lead Actor in New Carrie Adaptation

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, as reported by ScreenRant, director Mike Flanagan shared insights into the casting process for the lead actor in the Carrie TV show. After sifting through a whopping 1,800 auditions, Flanagan expressed his satisfaction in finding their leading lady in Summer H. Howell. He hinted to enthusiastic fans that Howell’s portrayal would be something unique and unprecedented compared to past interpretations of the character. Flanagan also shared his anticipation for audiences to witness her performance soon.

After considering over 1,800 potential individuals for that role, we went through an extensive selection process. In the end, I believe we found the ideal actor for the character, though it took a considerable amount of time to find her. I am eager for people to witness her performance, as it promises to be unique and innovative, breaking new ground with this role.

Together with Howell, the new adaptation of “Carrie” will feature Samantha Sloyan as Carrie’s devoutly religious mother, Margaret White; Alison Thornton as Chris Hargensen; Thalia Dudek as Emaline; Siena Agudong as Sue Snell; Amber Midthunder as Miss Desjardin; Josie Totah as Tina; Arthur Conti as Billy; Joel Oulette as Tommy; and Matthew Lillard, known for “Scream,” as Principal Grayle. The premiere of “Carrie” on Prime Video is anticipated to be in 2026, and with such a talented cast, this adaptation promises to be captivating viewing, particularly considering Flanagan’s past achievements with series like “The Haunting of Hill House,” “Midnight Mass,” and “Doctor Sleep.

As I eagerly await the premiere of Carrie, I’m excited to share that when it finally graces our screens, it will be an exclusive streaming event, available only on Prime Video.

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2025-06-04 12:23