Background Acting Jobs: How to Get Work in Film and TV
Background acting—often called extras work—supports scenes in movies and television production by filling locations, creating atmosphere, and reacting to principal action. This article explains what background actors do, how the casting director and production hire them, and where background work fits within the film industry. It is informational and does not provide real-time job listings or guarantee availability of work in your area.
What does a background actor do in Hollywood?
Background actors populate scenes to make settings feel lived-in: patrons in a restaurant, commuters on a subway, or extras at a crowd sequence. In Hollywood productions the tasks can vary from simple, non-speaking presence to small, directed actions like walking in a specific pattern. Professionalism—arriving on time, following wardrobe and hair instructions, and staying quiet on set—is as important as appearance. Background actors who consistently follow direction are more likely to be rehired for additional movie and television production work.
How to find background roles in a movie?
Finding background work usually starts with creating a clear profile: up-to-date photos, basic measurements, and availability. Casting notices for movies are posted on casting sites, production casting calls, and through local casting companies. Union affiliation (SAG-AFTRA in the U.S.) affects what jobs you can accept and your pay rates. When applying, respond only to verified listings, avoid paying for guaranteed placements, and be cautious with agencies that insist on large upfront fees. Networking with other performers and maintaining a professional online presence also helps.
How do casting directors hire background actors?
Casting directors and background casting coordinators review submissions and resumes, then select applicants who match a production’s visual needs. For crowd scenes they’ll consider factors such as age range, ethnic look, wardrobe compatibility, and the ability to follow direction. Once selected, background actors receive a call time, location, and costume instructions. On-set interactions are usually managed by a background AD (assistant director) who coordinates movement and ensures safety during complex scenes, especially those involving stunts or large numbers of people.
Where does background work fit in the film industry?
Background acting is an entry point into the film industry for many performers and crew. It provides on-set experience, exposure to industry workflows, and opportunities to meet casting directors, production assistants, and other creatives. While background work typically pays less than principal acting, it can lead to small speaking parts, stand-in work, or referrals to principal casting when openings arise. Background roles also support a wide range of productions beyond Hollywood features, including independent films, commercials, and corporate video shoots.
How background acting works in television production?
In television production, schedules, pace, and turnarounds are often faster than in movies. Episodic television may require recurring background characters for continuity, while single-episode guest crowds might be booked just for one day. Television production teams rely on well-organized background casting to meet tight shooting windows; punctuality and reliability are crucial. Background actors should be prepared to work long hours, follow wardrobe continuity notes, and accept that scenes may be filmed out of order to accommodate production logistics.
For practical information on established casting resources, the table below lists several widely used providers and platforms that background actors often use to learn about casting opportunities or submit profiles. This is a general list of services and does not represent current openings.
| Provider Name | Services Offered | Key Features/Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Central Casting | Background casting and payroll services for film and television | Longstanding U.S. background casting company with regional offices and production-oriented experience |
| Casting Networks | Online casting and submission platform | Digital submission tools, searchable breakdowns, and role filters for casting directors and actors |
| Backstage | Casting listings and industry resources | Job postings for film and television, casting notices, articles and audition advice |
| Actors Access | Self-submission platform for actors | Profile hosting, self-tape submissions, and casting call notifications |
| Local casting companies | Regional background casting and extras coordination | Often handle local production bookings and in-person registration for specific projects |
This article is informational and does not include real-time job listings or guarantee that specific opportunities are available in your area. Verify openings directly with verified casting providers and production contacts.
Conclusion
Background acting is a practical way to gain set experience and learn production etiquette while supporting storytelling in both movie and television production. Understanding how casting directors evaluate background performers, knowing where to build a profile, and following on-set protocols can improve chances of regular bookings. While background work rarely promises rapid advancement, it offers exposure to the film industry’s range of roles and personnel.
