Netflix has swiped right on reality television.

In recent months, the streaming giant has deepened their connection with audiences with the addition of some addicting reality TV offerings including dating series Love Is Blind and The Circle. 

For those unfamiliar with Netflix’s The Circle, the series is described as Big Brother meets Catfish, where contestants all move into the same apartment building but never meet face-to-face as they’re all confined to their own apartment.

Instead, they get to know each other exclusively through their profiles on the Circle social media app.

CraveYouTV had the chance to catch up with Bill Cranley, also known as “Best Friend Bill” from Chicago, Illinois, who entered the game during episode 6.

Not only did he gives us the scoop about his time on the series, but he also talked about his recent guest appearance on Chicago PD and disclosed what’s next for Best Friend Bill!

The Circle… that was one hell of an adventure, right?

Such a wild experience! The show did a great job at keeping all the contestants “in the dark” with how the entire process worked. Coming in, I had no idea what to expect or even how to work the Circle app!

How did that casting process work?

The casting process was very long, spanning over 6 months. They first held an in-person interview in Chicago just discussing who I was, what I did for a living, and what strategy I would use to become the winner of The Circle. About 5 Skype interviews later they flew us all out to LA for a final interview which consisted of a trial version of The Circle and chatting with other “contestants” via voice chat.

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If you say “best-looking average white dude” in the mirror 3 times, a basic bro will appear with a cut off t-shirt for you. Tag your basic bro #thecircle #thecirclenetflix #teambill #bestfriendbill

A post shared by Bill Cranley (@billcranley) on Jan 10, 2020 at 9:48am PST

What do you wish went differently/ what would you do differently?

Honestly, I wish I was brought on to the show from the very beginning. Getting brought on so late I could tell that there was a slight disconnect from me to the other players, compared to what they had with each other. I didn’t get the opportunities to chat with the players that I wanted to and my time spent on the show went by so quickly. My strategy to be “authentic” didn’t play out because I didn’t get to truly build any type of relationship in that short of time.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7PGusAhvxV/

What was your favorite part about being on the show?

I loved having my own apartment! They stocked my fridge with all of the groceries I asked for and was a nice break from the real life.

What did you learn about reality TV?

I learned that even if you’re building real relationships with others, when you’re on TV it’s all one big competition.

What do you want to say to your fans?

All of you have been awesome! For real so many people have reached out understanding my strategy and where I am coming from, and even though my time in the show was short-lived, all my fans have been so cool. I’ve already hung out with a few fans in Chicago!

At the same time, you were gaining exposure from The Circle, you appeared on Chicago PD. How was that gig?

Unreal! Chicago PD is very different from the circle and reality tv in general. Just as fun though.

How did you land the role?

I act in Chicago and go to auditions! I was asked by my agency to audition, and it turns out I’m really good at getting shot to death 😀

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7t9VYiBQmB/

What’s it like being an actor in Chicago? What are the steps to getting a speaking role on a TV show like Chicago PD?

Being an actor in Chicago is so much fun with little pressure to fight against other actors for a spot. All of my actor and model friends are always so supportive of each other, talking about different ways to get booked or ways to become a better actor. From what I hear it’s not as cutthroat as LA, and always happy to help out a fellow actor.

The steps to land a speaking role is all about the hustle! It’s going to 10 auditions in a week not landing a gig, and then having the strength to do it all over again the next week! You get used to hearing “no,” and that’s not a bad thing. I see it as motivation to keep going and getting better at what you do.

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~the final product~ other than every Southside Irish parade I’ve been to since I was 19, I’ve never had a bad experience drinking @millerlite

A post shared by Bill Cranley (@billcranley) on Jan 5, 2020 at 5:21pm PST

What’s next for Best Friend Bill? 

Good question! I’m still pursuing acting and modeling in Chicago and hope to land more roles over this next year. I definitely want to travel more this year as well and start up a fun project of documenting the most interesting people, places, and things; hopefully checking off a few things on my bucket list!

If you’re reading this and you have a unique/interesting hobby or lifestyle, hit me up; would love to experience it with you!

You can find Bill on Instagram @BillCranley!