gable
Updated: 2 days ago
that's a wrap
fall 2026 update
Thank you to everyone who was a part of the Olympic Athletic Biopic GABLE about Dan Gable. Filming took place all over Central Illinois this summer, and we cannot wait to see the final product. It was a delight to bring so many background back to the 1970s - I hope we see everyone on the big screen!
We'll keep this page updated as we get more information. Congrats to the entire cast and crew on a very hot shoot. We can't wait to see everyone's hard work come together.
time + place
Picture it, Waterloo, Iowa from 1965-1972 - a young Dan Gable wrestles his way through high school, college, and then we travel internationally to the Olympics.
From a heartbreaking beginning to winning it all, this story travels through decades and across the world to bring a champion's journey to life.
who we were looking for
new featured background roles
College Wrestlers + Olympic Wrestlers - Men, 18-24, Ethnicity - Actual folks who have wrestled to at least varsity high school, ideally into college.
Coaches - Men, 40-60, White - College and Olympic coaches for the wrestling teams in the film. Ideally this person has actual referee experience.
Chris Taylor - an American super-heavyweight wrestler. He competed in freestyle and Greco-Roman events at the 1972 Summer Olympics and won a bronze medal in the freestyle. At 412 pounds, he was the heaviest Olympian
background roles
CENTRAL ILLINOIS LOCAL HIRES, THIS ONE'S FOR YOU
High School + College Kids in the stands
Cheerleaders - Needs to be under 5'2" to fit the vintage cheerleading uniforms.
Jocks
Hippies + Co-Eds
Illinois State Fans
Russian Folks - Fans, event staff and film crews
Middle Eastern Folks - Fans, event staff and film crews
Film Crews + Media People - American and International film crews.
Bonus points if you actually know how to hold sound equipment, or could feel comfortable being shown operating vintage TV cameras.
Middle Eastern Fashion - 1970s
frequently asked questions
If I apply, am I automatically in?
When you apply, you'll be added to the pool that our casting office will sift through to filter people into the correct days. We try to get as many people a chance to be on set, and we'll do our best to make your work dates work for you. While it's not automatic, the fastest way to submit for our consideration.
If I book this project, are you my agent?
No, we don't represent anyone. Production will pay you as you leave work for the day, and we never have any hand on talent's payment.
Do I have to be a union actor because this is a union film?
No, you do not need to be a union (SAG-AFTRA) actor to participate as background. Unless you speak in this film, you also won't gain your union eligibility from working background in this film either.
Can I bring other people with me if I get picked?
Nope! The booking is only for you, and there will be security at checkin. If you're not on our approved list, you won't get on set.
Where is this project filming?
We're filming in Champaign County, based out of Flyover Film Studios in Rantoul, Illinois.
I was a special guest at a wrestling meet when I was 15-16 yr old when Dan invited local kids to sit on the bench and go behind the scenes. It was an incredible experience and I still have the picture of Dan and I. Dan and my Dad are best friends and Dan visits my Dad often since my Dad’s tbi fall a couple years ago. Best of luck with the movie and I hope to be an extra.
My name is Chris Freidhof
We worked together on Chili Finger
My wife Denise and I are interested in being background for the movie Gable
I can be reached at cfreidhof@yahoo.com
Denise can be reached at DeniseFreidhof2@gmail.com
Thanks