Duluth Actor Bailey Stender Landed Role in Girl Group
The local performer secured a part in the film directed by Rebel Wilson following an extensive nationwide search.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Dance
Duluth actor Bailey Stender has landed a role in the movie Girl Group, directed by Rebel Wilson. The film recently premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Why it matters
Stender earned the opportunity after a competitive casting process that included approximately 1,000 auditioning individuals. Wilson reportedly wrote the specific role for Stender after witnessing her talent.
The casting process involved 1,000 hopefuls, with just 50 individuals invited to a final dance call overseen by choreographer Chris Scott. Stender, who moved to Los Angeles at age 19, previously appeared in the film Rescuing Christmas.
The players
Bailey Stender
She is an actor from Duluth who previously performed in the film Rescuing Christmas.
Rebel Wilson
She is a well-known filmmaker and actress who directed and wrote a role for Stender in the movie Girl Group.
Chris Scott
He is a professional choreographer who led the dance call for the film's final casting stage in Los Angeles.
The details
Stender auditioned during a nationwide search and was eventually selected for a role written specifically for her by Wilson. The actress previously attended Belmont University for one year before pursuing her career.
Timeline
The film Girl Group held its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2026.
The film is currently expected to see an official release in 2027.
Industry Dynamics
This casting process mirrors the industry-wide shift toward nationwide talent searches, which studios increasingly utilize to identify performers for major features. Such initiatives are reshaping how production teams secure emerging talent for large-scale projects.
While the movie has premiered at a festival, American audiences will have to wait for the film to secure a distribution deal before it reaches local theaters or streaming platforms. The project is currently projected for a 2027 release.
The takeaway
Stender’s success highlights the potential of nationwide open casting calls to elevate regional talent to major motion pictures. Aspiring performers can look to her path as a reminder that staying prepared for unexpected opportunities is essential in the entertainment industry.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in local performance arts on the Dance page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WDIO.
