Cochrane’s next big movie star might just have four legs and some great basketball skills.
Robert Vince, creator of the “Air Bud” franchise, has announced an open casting call for the title role in the 15th film, “Air Bud Returns.”
For the first time, producers are inviting the public to audition their dogs for the iconic part once played by a golden retriever named Buddy.
Audition videos should be 60 to 90 seconds long, showing the dog performing basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” along with any special tricks or basketball moves.
To apply, dogs must be purebred golden retrievers, athletic, and ideally, basketball enthusiasts.
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The franchise began in 1997 with “Air Bud,” the Disney film about a boy and a stray golden retriever who becomes a high school basketball star. Despite most sequels being released direct-to-video, the series has brought in more than $220 million worldwide.
“Air Bud Returns” will tell the story of a 12-year-old who discovers an old VHS copy of “Air Bud” after his father’s death. A meeting with a golden retriever named Buddy sparks a quest for a championship and helps unite a team of misfits.
The film is expected to be released in theatres next summer, marking the first “Air Bud” movie to hit the big screen since 1998.
Applications are now open. Find more information about “Air Bud Returns” auditions HERE.