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(WHTM) — Is the next canine basketball star sitting in your home right now?
Robert Vince, creator of the “Air Bud” franchise, recently announced he and his team are looking for the dog star of the series’ forthcoming 15th installment, “Air Bud Returns.”
“We introduced the world to an incredible retriever called Air Bud,” Vince said. “For the first time ever, we’re opening up the auditions for the next Air Bud.”
“Returns” will be the latest in a long-lasting franchise, which began with 1997’s “Air Bud.” The Disney-released film followed a tween named Josh whose chance encounter with a stray golden retriever leads to the dog becoming the star of Josh’s school basketball team.
- Your dog could be the next ‘Air Bud.’ Here’s how to apply
The film was followed up by a theatrical sequel, “Air Bud: Golden Receiver,” though a dismal box office run led to all subsequent sequels being released direct-to-video. Despite this, “Air Bud” (1997) has remained a beloved family film and surprisingly, its direct-to-video sequels have continued to be popular. At least up to the 12th installment, the franchise has raked in at least $220 million, per the Hollywood Reporter.
Think your golden has what it takes to follow in these famed paw-steps?
How to apply
There are no rules that a dog can’t play basketball, but there are some rules applicants should know before applying.
Dogs must be purebred golden retrievers, athletic and ideally, should love basketball.
Applicants will be asked to submit 60-90-second audition videos that show their dog performing basic commands, including “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Videos should include the dog’s age and feature any unique skills or basketball moves.
Applications are open now. Find more information about “Air Bud Returns” auditions here.
What is “Air Bud Returns” about?
The metatextual sequel will follow a 12-year-old who dreams of being a star basketball player. After his father’s death, he discovers an original VHS copy of the “Air Bud” movie in his childhood home, per the July 24 announcement from Cineverse.
As in the original “Air Bud,” however, a chance encounter with a golden retriever named Buddy “kicks off a chase for a championship, and a journey of healing that unites a team of misfits,” Cineverse said.
“Air Bud Returns” is currently slated to be released theatrically next summer. It’ll be the first film in the series to hit the big screen since 1998.
