About Foreign Actors
Founded in 1992, Free Wave is an international talent agency specializing in foreign actors, based in Tokyo and Osaka with over 30 years of experience.
Our talent is cast in a wide range of productions, including films, TV dramas, streaming content on platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, stage performances, and commercials.
As Japanese society becomes increasingly diverse, the demand for foreign and mixed-race actors continues to grow. In addition to domestic productions, we also support casting and coordination for overseas actors. When considering foreign or mixed-race actors for your projects, our experienced managers can recommend the most suitable talent and support smooth production. Please feel free to contact us when looking for actors.
STRENGTHS4 Key Strengths of Free Wave
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A Large Roster of Experienced Foreign Actors
We represent many actors with extensive experience in Japanese films and TV dramas, giving them a deep understanding of the Japanese filming environment.
Our actors speak a variety of languages, including not only English but also French, Italian, Arabic, and more. We also have foreign actors who can perform in Japanese, as well as mixed-race actors who are native Japanese speakers.
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Meticulous Support That Ensures Trust and Peace of Mind
Free Wave has a proven track record in long-term projects, including TV dramas, films, and stage productions. With our careful attention and extensive experience, we provide both clients and actors with trust and peace of mind, fully contributing to the smooth progress and success of every project.
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Capable of Handling Large Numbers of Foreign Extras
We can arrange for more than 100 extras at a time. With a diverse roster spanning various ethnicities and age groups, we can provide tailored suggestions to meet the specific needs of each project.
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On-Site Support, Interpreting, and Language Coaching
When needed, our managers—well-versed in foreign cultures and characteristics—provide on-site support. We also offer on-set interpreters who accurately convey the production’s intentions to actors, as well as language coaching for Japanese actors.
Casting Support Between Japan and Overseas
We provide actor recommendations and casting support across borders:
- Casting support for actors based overseas (for projects produced or filmed in Japan or abroad)
- Casting support for actors based in Japan (Japanese or foreign actors, for projects produced or filmed overseas)
Featured Actors
Case Studies
Our foreign actors have appeared in a wide range of productions, including films, TV dramas, streaming content on platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video,
as well as stage performances.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Foreign Actors
- How should I inquire about casting foreign actors in Japan?
- Please share your project outline, role requirements or image, and shooting schedule. If additional details are needed, our manager will follow up with you directly.
- Are all available actors listed on your website?
- No. The website shows only a portion of our talent. Once you send us a casting request, we will propose additional candidates that best fit your requirements.
- Do you have foreign actors who can communicate in Japanese?
- Yes. Many of our actors can communicate in Japanese. For those with limited Japanese skills, we provide on-site interpreters or manager support to ensure smooth communication.