The 600-Audition Star: The Emmy-Winning Casting of 'Adolescence'

At this year's Emmy Awards, the limited series "Adolescence" won nearly every major prize. It was honored for its writing, directing, and cinematography. Three of its actors also won awards. But the show earned another, less-visible Emmy: Best Casting. This award went to Shaheen Baig. Baig is the casting director who found the show's breakout star, Owen Cooper. She chose him after reviewing about 600 auditions for the role. Her work on "Adolescence" has now been recognized with television's top honor. Baig has also cast other acclaimed series like "Peaky Blinders" and "Sherwood." Yet her discovery of Cooper is considered a rare success. It shows how casting directors shape the stars we see on screen.