Casting a Bear with TV Bears International

Casting one of our bears or other characters into your production is more straightforward than you might think. At TV Bears International, we specialize in delivering lifelike bear characters for film, television, commercials, online series, social media campaigns, and live events. With decades of combined experience in both entertainment and production logistics, our process is designed to be clear, efficient, and flexible.

Our team is passionate about on-screen practical effects and the unique authenticity they bring to any production. Nothing compares to the presence of a real, physical character in front of the camera, interacting naturally with sets, props, and talent.

Step One: Explore Our Bears

Start by browsing the wide variety of bears and other characters available on our website. From realistic grizzlies and polar bears to family-friendly teddy bears and whimsical mascots, each character offers a unique presence on screen and can adapt to a wide range of productions. 

Click here to view our bears and other characters 

Step Two: Provide Key Information

To prepare a fast and accurate quotation, we will need:

• Location of the shoot
• Estimated shoot dates and number of shoot days
• Storyboard, deck, or action list for our involvement (drafts are fine and can be finalized in the contract)

We are happy to sign an NDA before receiving sensitive information if required.

Once you have an idea of which bear fits your project and the key information required above, please contact us for a quotation and availability.

Click here to contact us 

Step Three: Pre-Production Communication and Planning

Strong results come from detailed collaboration in advance. During pre-production, we work closely with your creative team to:

• Understand how our character will interact with your talent, set and environment
• Plan blocking, entrances, and exits to align with your storyboard
• Advise on camera angles and movement that best showcase the bear if required
• Discuss whether hybrid CGI markers may be required and where they should be applied
• Coordinate wardrobe or prop integration so the bear fits seamlessly into your vision
• Identify and address any potential health and safety concerns

Our team is happy to assist with creative direction and staging ideas. We are passionate about what we do and committed to helping your production shine.

Step Four: On-Set Coordination

Working with us on set is straightforward. Each booking includes a dedicated coordinator who ensures that:

• The bear is always looking their best for each scene
• A safety briefing is provided on set so everyone is familiar with our protocols
• The bear is guided safely to and from marks or resets
• Cooling fans and internal systems are powered as needed
• Costume adjustments are made quickly and discreetly
• Any health and safety issues are managed with practical, on-the-spot solutions

Our coordinators act as a bridge between your crew and our bear, ensuring seamless integration into your production schedule.

Character Appearances and Scene Types

Our characters can fit into a wide range of productions, including:

• One-off guest appearances in commercials or special episodes
• Recurring roles in television series or online content
• Promotional campaigns, including digital and social media
• Red carpet premieres and live activations
• Comedic, dramatic, and choreographed sequences

We do not rent costumes separately. Every appearance includes the actor in costume, supported by our coordinators. In certain circumstances, such as highly choreographed dance sequences, we may allow a dancer or specialist to perform in one of our costumes, but always under direct supervision by our team to ensure the safety of the costume and the integrity of the character.

Maintaining Character Integrity

To protect the immersion and integrity of our characters, behind-the-scenes videos or photos of our assets are not permitted. We are always delighted to take photos with cast and crew, but only in full costume or directly in person. Preserving the magic is part of what makes TV Bears International unique.

Space and Facilities Requirements

Each booking requires a dedicated changing and preparation space that:

• Is private and undisturbed (not a restroom)
• Provides enough room to safely assemble and maintain intricate costume components

We are happy to work outdoors when pop-up tents or talent trailers are provided. If needed, we can offer our own solutions. Please reach out during pre-production so we can help resolve any logistical concerns before committing.

Flexible Packages

We offer a variety of union and non-union packages, including budget-friendly buyouts and flexible licensing for campaigns of any scale.

Supporting the next generation of filmmakers

We are passionate about supporting the next generation of filmmakers. Under certain circumstances, we offer reduced-cost packages to student films or independent productions in the UK and Los Angeles area. These arrangements may include access to specific bears, guidance on staging, or flexible appearance terms that make high-quality character work more achievable on a limited budget. Even at a reduced cost, you can still expect expert assistance on set, with our actor and coordinator ensuring that character integrity and production value are never compromised.

Click here to explore how we can support your student film or independent project