Actor Johnny Lever`s daughter, actor-comedian Jamie Lever, recently spoke up about an uncomfortable incident she encountered at an international project audition. Jamie stated that as part of her Zoom audition, the makers asked her to strip during a video call.
During the conversation, Jamie mentioned how pleased she was when an offer for an international project came her way. Jaime revealed, “They mentioned there would be a video call. The script wasn’t provided because they wanted it to be improvised. At the scheduled time, I received the link and joined. I was informed that the director would speak to me directly. The individual pretending to be the director claimed he was travelling and couldn’t turn on his video. He stated, `This is an international film we are casting for, and you fit the physical criteria perfectly, but we need to test a few things.`”
Jamie details the casting couch experience
Jamie further revealed the ordeal, “He informed me that I would portray a bold character and that there would be no comedy involved. I was eager to explore something new. When I inquired about what he needed me to do, he said, ‘Imagine there’s a 50-year-old person in front of you, and you’re trying to charm him. Ultimately, there’s an intimate scene between the two.’ I expressed my discomfort and requested to stick to the script. He claimed there was no script and that it was all about improvisation. If you need to strip, say something, or do anything, feel free. I wasn’t at ease, but he kept insisting, `This is a major project, and we want to cast you.` I replied, `If you expect me to strip during this video call, I am not comfortable with that. I wasn’t made aware of this.` I quickly turned off my video. That’s when I realised this could be a significant scam.”
She further stated that if she “acted naively,” her video “could have been recorded, and I could have been harassed.” Jamie also stated, “So many women are duped and trapped under the guise of casting.” “I feel extremely fortunate.” She further stated that she “should not have even clicked the link, but my presence of mind saved me.” I was afraid because it was the first time I had encountered such a predicament in my life.”
Jamie`s work trajectory
Jamie has appeared in a number of Bollywood films, including Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon, Housefull 4, Bhoot Police, Yaatris and Crakk. Jamie is now preparing to embark on her comedy tour, The Jamie Lever Show, across the United States. The tour begins in Seattle on August 1 and will visit 15 locations before closing on August 31 in Boston.