Behind the Star
Chad Gregory
Independently Published (2025)
ISBN 979-8285195115
Reviewed by Jill Rey for Reader Views (7/2025)
As someone located in the Midwest, I can’t say I’ve seen many movie sets. We don’t often have production teams coming through, agents looking for those interested in work, or film crews setting up for the next big shot. Most of this excitement remains centered at the movie studios, most famously located in L.A. and Atlanta. However, there have been many who’ve left the Midwest and found fame, a living, or honest work in the movie industry. There’s likely even more who’ve made their way from the Midwest to be an unsung hero of background, stand-in, and support work behind the scenes of movie magic success. Author Chad Gregory guides readers through his own journey into stand-in work as he recounts his stories on set and the hard work that is synonymous with callbacks for more in Behind the Star: A Guide to Mastering the Craft of Stand-In Work and Thriving Beyond the Set.
While the Midwest may not have many natural avenues for regular stand-in roles, the work ethic, drive, and determination that is cemented into many of us certainly provides the right backbone for success. As Gregory recounts his preparedness, long days on his feet, and ‘always on’ mentality as a few of his keys for success, I couldn’t help but relate to much of his guiding advice. No matter what the industry, whatever the role, whoever the director, the lessons, teaching, and techniques shared within are applicable to a broad range of careers. Stand-in work, like that portrayed in Behind the Star, may seem like a niche career path, but Gregory has certainly written a guide to mastering the craft far beyond the scope of the camera lens or the light’s shadow.
Walking readers through the process, Gregory shares his experience with getting started in this industry. From the long waits for a call inviting him for work to the long days on set, the queues to watch for, the attitude and commitment to bring, and everything in between, Behind the Star showcases just one of the many heroes behind the scenes of the making of a movie.
Pulling back the curtain, Chad Gregory pens his years of success and learnings into this guidebook to thriving as a stand-in. Behind the Star is more than an introduction to niche work; it’s a toolkit for success in any workplace.