Carol Goldwasser, Casting Director on ‘Hannah Montana,’ Dies at 67

As a seasoned film enthusiast with decades of industry experience under my belt, I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Carol Goldwasser. Her contribution to shaping young talent and her dedication to diversity in casting were truly commendable.

Carol Goldwasser, a casting director renowned for honing young talents in series such as “Hannah Montana,” passed away on December 5 at her Palm Springs residence following a surgical procedure. She was 67 years old.

Goldwasser’s death was confirmed to EbMaster by her friend, manager Theodore Gekis.

Goldwasser spent more than two decades working in both Los Angeles and New York. During this time, she utilized her extensive knowledge of casting on various television series such as “Hannah Montana,” “Austin & Ally,” “Dog with a Blog” and “Cousins for Life.

In 1991, she decided to relocate to Los Angeles with no specific plan in mind. However, her luck turned when she landed a job as a casting associate on “Melrose Place” and the pilot of “My So-Called Life.” From 1994 to 1996, she climbed up the ladder at Disney/Touchstone Television, working as a casting manager. She was eventually promoted to the position of director of casting, which she held until 1998.

Marc Hirscheld, a former Executive Vice President of Casting at NBC, remarked that Carol was exceptionally gifted as a casting director and a pleasure to be around. He described her as consistently upbeat, energetic, and irritatingly optimistic. The world now seems a bit less cheerful without her.

Goldwasser held the position as head of the diversity committee within the Casting Society of America. She earned 11 nominations for the CSA Artios Award, winning twice, and received a nod for the Heller Award for Outstanding Television Casting Director of the Year. Additionally, she was part of the Television Academy.

Ann Maney pondered with a heartfelt sentiment: “Following Carol’s fulfilling and prosperous career in casting, I looked forward to her embarking on a new journey and finding profound joy during her retirement. She truly flourished. Farewell, my dear friend, Doll.

Goldwasser is survived by her sister, Diana Goldwasser and her brother-in-law, Philip Dorman.

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2024-12-13 03:16