Meet Peter Xiao | Actor & Casting Director & Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Peter Xiao and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Peter, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I think one of the key reasons my casting business has found success is my commitment to treating everyone with kindness and respect. In the entertainment industry, it’s a small world; someone you meet today—be it an actor, director, writer, or producer—could reappear in your life in a different role, possibly even as a future collaborator. I genuinely value each connection, and I’m always willing to help when I can.

Being kind isn’t just about being remembered; it’s about understanding the intense demands everyone faces. Long hours and high-stress situations are common, and sometimes the simplest thing you can do is show empathy and see things from another person’s perspective. People remember that. They remember who treats them well, and it often leads to new opportunities and projects.

I believe in the power of small gestures. Never be afraid to help, even if it seems like a small favor. Sometimes, a little sacrifice opens doors to bigger things. For me, that’s been a cornerstone of my journey and why I believe my work resonates with others in this industry.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I came to the U.S. about eight years ago for high school, and adjusting to a new culture was incredibly challenging—especially when I decided to pursue an artistic career. The cultural gap made it hard to connect with potential friends, and for years I struggled with loneliness, unable to fully relate to anyone. My grades suffered, classes were overwhelming, and anxiety was a constant companion. I always felt like a foreigner here.

When I decided to apply for an acting degree, I had no idea how much it would demand. I prepared for auditions alone, traveling by bus and plane to New York and Texas. Almost everything I did, I did by myself, and looking back, I wish I’d had someone by my side.

Facing these challenges, especially in such a competitive environment, was far from easy. I’ve always been a perfectionist; if I commit to something, I want to do it perfectly. This applied to acting, casting, and simply navigating life here. It took me years to accept that I won’t always be the best at everything, but I do believe I can accomplish great things. I am the best version of myself right now, and all I can do is give my absolute best and keep pushing forward. That’s the way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’d definitely say Central Park, Battery Park, or any green space in New York City—I’m a huge nature lover. I’d take all my friends to Central Park to walk or bike and just have a relaxed afternoon. Then we’d head downtown, maybe around SoHo, to grab a bite to eat. After that, we could take the ferry to Governors Island, Rockaway Beach, or Coney Island, just those beautiful places. Taking the Metro-North upstate is a lot of fun too. There’s just something special about enjoying the beauty in and around New York City.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a special shoutout to my friends at NYU Tisch and the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute. They were there for me through the tough times in New York as I pursued an acting career and later into casting. New York is a competitive place, with so many talented people doing incredible things and gaining recognition. It’s easy to feel like you need to push yourself even harder. I was lucky to find friends who understood that feeling, who shared similar experiences. Together, we supported one another and, over time, created amazing work. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

I also want to give thanks to my high school teachers and friends, who shaped me into the person I am today. Their love, respect, and encouragement helped me build the confidence to pursue the life I truly wanted. I’m incredibly grateful to all of them.

Website: https://www.peterxiaowy.com

Instagram: @peterxiao325

Image Credits
“The Damp Season” – Dir. Olivia Gao – Casting by Peter Xiao
“SNAFU” – Dir. Jackie Shijie Xing – Casting by Peter Xiao
“Inversion” – Dir. Linzhe Zhang – Casting by Peter Xiao
“I, Chinese” – Dir. Keith Leung – Casting by Peter Xiao
“Damien’s Gym” – Dir. Daniel Reeves – Casting by Peter Xiao
“Nocturne” – Dir. Wenrui Zhao – Casting by Peter Xiao