Interview Date: February 8th, 2026
Episode Summary:
In this powerful and entertaining episode of The Business of Dance, Menina Fortunato sits down with legendary casting director, choreographer, and creative producer Tony Gonzalez (Tony G).
With credits spanning the Bring It On franchise, Olivia Rodrigo’s “Good 4 U,” Britney Spears’ Femme Fatale Tour, Wayne’s World, The Birdcage, The Masked Singer, and Kids Bop, Tony shares the real story behind his decades-long career in Hollywood.
From being told he was “too short” and “not the look,” to building an empire rooted in hustle and business savvy, Tony proves longevity comes from mindset—not just movement.
Tony dives deep into the difference between being talented and being bookable, why dancers must understand they are a business first, and how listening (ears before movement) is the true audition superpower. He unpacks pivotal career moments—including being fired from the first Bring It On film only to choreograph the next six installments—and how advocating for dancers’ pay shaped his reputation.
From TikTok virality (“Unk” with 315K+ followers) to creative directing large-scale productions, Tony reminds dancers that opportunity is everywhere—not just in LA or New York. This episode is perfect for dancers who want longevity, leadership, and a competitive edge in auditions, choreography, and beyond.
Shownotes:
(0:00) – Intro to Tony G
(11:50) – Early roots: Soul Train to modern dance
(14:11) – Meeting Paula Abdul & industry breakthrough
(19:56) – Rejection from agents & pivot to choreography
(24:27) – Wayne’s World & Birdcage career milestones
(28:32) – Fired from Bring It On, built the franchise
(31:29) – Audition advice: ears first, then movement
(36:53) – Creative director vs. choreographer explained
(43:53) – TikTok fame: “Rooftop Tony” & 315K followers
(1:09:16) – Final message: you are the business
Biography:
With four decades of genre-shaping experience in entertainment, Tony Gonzalez—better known as Tony G—is a creative force in Hollywood. A casting director, acclaimed choreographer, creative director, and producer, his work spans dance, film, television, and music videos. Tony G has shaped movement and storytelling across more than 360 broadcast television commercials, iconic episodic and sitcom series including The Office, Community, Up All Night, and 3rd Rock from the Sun, as well as feature films such as Universal Pictures’ Bring It On franchise.
Known for capturing the essence of movement on screen, Tony G thrives in the moment—crafting, adjusting, and elevating choreography instantly on set. His passion for teaching while creating fuels collaboration and opportunity, resulting in bold staging, electric flow, and unforgettable visual storytelling. Whether on a film, television, commercial, or music video set, Tony G delivers precision, adaptability, and undeniable vibe.
Connect on Social Media:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tonygcast/
Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@gfresh