What did Springsteen biographer Dave Zanes reveal about the casting process for the film "Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere"?

Zanes was an "observer" during the casting process and was convinced that Jeremy Allen White was the perfect choice to play Bruce Springsteen in the film.

How did Zanes feel about the involvement of director Scott Cooper in the "Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere" film?

Zanes had confidence in Cooper's involvement, praising the director's "body of work" and believing the film would be a success.

What impressed Zanes about the on-set chemistry between the actors playing Springsteen and his longtime co-producer and manager Jon Landau?

Zanes said he knew the film "cannot go wrong" after seeing Jeremy Allen White and Jeremy Strong's first scene together, as he could see the chemistry between the two characters.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Springsteen Biographer Zanes Shares Insider Secrets of Film Casting

Springsteen Biographer Zanes Shares Insider Secrets of Film Casting

23 Oct

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Summary

Zanes was an "observer" in the casting process for the Springsteen film
Jeremy Allen White's performance as Springsteen convinced Zanes the film would be a success
Zanes had confidence in director Scott Cooper's involvement

Springsteen Biographer Zanes Shares Insider Secrets of Film Casting

In October 2025, Springsteen biographer Dave Zanes provided a behind-the-scenes look at the casting process for the upcoming film "Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere." Zanes, whose book "Deliver Me from Nowhere: The Making of Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska" inspired the movie, explained that he was an "observer" during the casting, getting to see various actors' faces being considered for the lead role.

However, Zanes revealed that once he saw Jeremy Allen White, the 34-year-old Emmy-winning actor who ultimately landed the part of the 76-year-old Springsteen, he knew White was the right choice. Zanes said he "went deeper on 'The Bear'" and was convinced White's performance would be a success. The biographer also expressed confidence in director Scott Cooper, praising his "body of work."