💅 Queer Eye Audition Snapshot
Netflix’s hit series The Ultimatum: Queer Love has redefined queer reality TV by showcasing emotionally raw, high-stakes journeys of women and non-binary couples. With Season 2 premiering on June 25, 2025, and casting for future seasons expected to reopen this fall, here’s your ultimate, no-fluff guide to auditioning — featuring real insights from past contestants, production patterns, and practical tips that go beyond common sense.
Quick Audition Checklist
- ✅ You must be in a committed queer relationship (at least 6+ months together).
- ✅ One partner must be ready to marry, the other unsure.
- ✅ Be emotionally open to dating someone else on camera.
- ✅ Have 8–10 weeks of filming availability.
- ✅ Casting opens each fall on CastingCrane.com.
What Producers Actually Look For (Based on Seasons 1 & 2)
Producers want real stakes, not drama for the sake of it. Here’s what makes an application stand out:
| Trait | Why It Matters |
| Conflicting timelines | One wants marriage ASAP, the other needs clarity |
| High emotional IQ | Ability to reflect, cry, grow on screen |
| Everyday chemistry | You two should feel real, not like influencers |
| Diverse perspectives | Race, class, background, and queer identity matter |
| Courage to date others | It’s not easy; producers want you to wrestle with that |
How to Record a Standout Audition Video ( Do’s and Don’ts)
For The Ultimatum: Queer Love, a compelling audition video is key. Here’s a concise guide for non-tech users to record with a smartphone, covering setup, settings, and common issues.
Equipment and Setup
Use a recent iPhone or Android (1080p capable), a tripod or stable surface, and natural light or a ring light ($15–$30). Record in a quiet room; the phone’s mic is usually fine, but a $10 lavalier mic boosts clarity.
Recording Settings
- Resolution: 1080p at 30 fps for quality and manageable file size. Avoid 4K or 60 fps.
- Format: MP4 or MOV (iPhone: MOV, Android: MP4).
- Orientation: Horizontal (landscape) for a professional look, unless vertical is specified.
- Setup: iPhone—Camera app, select “Video,” set 1080p/30 fps. Android—check settings for same.
Lighting and Audio
- Lighting: Face a window or use a ring light. Avoid backlighting or harsh overhead lights.
- Audio: Record in a quiet space. Avoid echoey rooms. Test audio clarity 2–3 feet from the phone.
Framing
Center yourself, chest up, at eye level. Use a clean background. Wear a stylish, non-distracting outfit to show personality.
Common Challenges
- Compression: Casting calls often require <100 MB. Use iMovie (iPhone) or VidCompact (Android) to compress 3–5 minute videos to 50–80 MB.
- Settings: Test a 10-second clip to confirm resolution and frame rate.
- Uploading: Convert to MP4 if needed (CloudConvert) and use stable Wi-Fi.
Do’s and Don’ts
- Do: Test setup, follow guidelines, show energy.
- Don’t: Use filters, record in low light, or submit oversized files.
Audition Tips from Past Contestants
Lexi Goldberg (Season 1): “Producers want vulnerability. Don’t pretend to be perfect. Show the fear too.”
Mal Wright: “My partner and I were unsure about marriage because of religion and career paths. That’s what got us cast. Be real about the friction.”
Insider Stat: Over 80% of Season 1 cast had been in their relationship for more than 1 year before filming.
Interview video https://youtu.be/YJ9UjGAoZbs?si=tCM8F3xWG_aPTYUa
Meet the Casting director of Ultimatum: Queer Love
Chanel Perrillo is behind the Amazing show, also the real MVP who handpicked the six bold, beautiful, and totally raw couples we’re all about to binge-watch.
Chanel isn’t new to this game. She’s worked on shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race, FBOY Island, and Real Housewives — so yeah, she knows how to find people who bring heart, heat, and drama (the real kind, not the fake reality stuff).
Back in September 2023, she dropped the casting call for Season 2 right on her Instagram (@shutupchanel) — asking queer couples to slide into her DMs or apply through CastingCrane. Her vibe? Real people. Real love. Real stakes. If one of you is saying “Marry me now” and the other’s panicking quietly inside? You’re exactly what she’s looking for.
So if you’re dreaming of being on the next season, remember this name: Chanel Perrillo. Because she’s the gatekeeper to Netflix’s boldest queer experiment yet — and she’s always watching for the next unforgettable couple.
Advanced Hacks for Application Success
- 🔍 Document Your Story: Include 2–3 photos or videos showing milestones—your first trip, meeting families, disagreements, etc.
- 👥 Follow & Engage: Stay active with @theultimatum on Instagram and Twitter. Past contestants say being visible helps.
- 📅 Timing Matters: Most casting calls reopen September–October. Set alerts.
- 🕵️♂️ Reflect Together: Film short conversations between you two about marriage. These clips become great bonus content.
Q: Can trans women apply?
A: While Season 2 focused on women and non-binary folks, producers have acknowledged the need for greater trans inclusion. Watch for updates.
Q: What happens if we break up?
A: Some couples part ways on-camera. Netflix offers post-show counseling support.
Q: How long is the process?
A: 4 steps over 2–3 months: Form > Video > Interviews > Background checks.
⌛ Casting Watch (Updated June 19, 2025)
- ❌ Season 2: Casting closed
- ⏳ Season 3: Expected to reopen September 2025
- 🔗 Bookmark: CastingCrane.com for future updates
📊 Final Thought: Authenticity > Strategy
Netflix doesn’t want polished performers; they want people in the middle of something real. The best applications are raw, thoughtful, and reveal a relationship on the brink. If that sounds like you, hit record—and show the courage to be seen.
