Understanding Background Actors and the Path to Hollywood

Are you passionate about being part of the film and television industry without taking the lead? Becoming a background actor or a Hollywood extra is a unique way to contribute to the magic without being in the spotlight. This article will guide you through the process of finding legitimate opportunities and the resources available to you.

The Role of a Background Actor

In the film and television industry, background actors, also known as extras, play a crucial but silent role. These actors bring authenticity and realism to scenes by populating streets, offices, and other settings with believable representations of the characters and environments. While their roles may seem mundane, extras are essential to create a believable and immersive visual experience for viewers.

Membership with SAG AFTRA

One of the primary resources for aspiring background actors is the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG AFTRA). Membership with SAG AFTRA offers numerous benefits, including networking opportunities, access to a database of extra casting calls, and professional representation. To join, you must:

Be 18 years of age or older Meet the body measurements required by the union Pass a background check Pay membership and union fees

Once you become a SAG AFTRA member, you gain access to a community of other professional extras who can provide support and advice. SAG AFTRA also offers workshops and seminars to help members enhance their skills and advance their careers. For more information on becoming a member, visit the SAG AFTRA website.

Working with Central Casting

Another significant player in the world of background actors is Central Casting, a company that has been essential in connecting talented individuals with major Hollywood productions. Central Casting offers various opportunities, ranging from minor roles as extras to more substantial part-time positions. When looking to work with Central Casting, consider the following steps:

Research the Company: Visit the Central Casting website to learn about recent casting calls, upcoming projects, and available opportunities. Prepare Your Resume: Clearly list your physical attributes, such as height, weight, and hair color, as well as any relevant experience or skills. Visit the Casting Office: Schedule an appointment at a Central Casting office to meet with casting directors and showcase your talents. Follow Up: After your visit, send a follow-up email or letter expressing your interest in future casting opportunities.

Central Casting also offers a database of previously used extras, which can be accessed by members and non-members alike. This can be a valuable resource for identifying trends and memorabilia from past productions.

Other Resources for Background Actors

In addition to SAG AFTRA and Central Casting, there are several other resources and organizations that can help you in your quest to become a background actor:

LA Casting: Similar to Central Casting, this company provides a platform for actors to find casting opportunities and can be accessed at IMDB: IMDb, or the Internet Movie Database, is an invaluable resource for learning about recent casting calls, films, and TV shows. You can sign up for a free account to receive notifications about new casting opportunities. Local Talent Agencies: Many cities have talent agencies that specialize in providing actors with casting opportunities, including background actors. Consider signing up with an agency in your local area to enhance your visibility and reach.

Networking and Building Your Skill Set

To increase your chances of landing a background actor role, it's important to network within the industry and continuously build your skills. Consider the following tips:

Attend Industry Events: Participate in film festivals, workshops, and industry meet-and-greets to meet industry professionals and potential casting directors. Enhance Your Skills: Learn new skills through online courses, workshops, and hands-on training. This can include talents like skateboarding, horseback riding, dancing, or any other skills that may be useful on set. Backup Roles: In addition to background acting, consider taking on other roles such as stand-in, model, or stunt double to diversify your skill set and become a more versatile actor. Build a Compelling Resume: Highlight all your physical attributes, talents, and unique qualities to stand out to casting directors.

Remember, each background actor role, no matter how small, is part of a larger storytelling effort. Your unique contributions, whether it's a few seconds on screen or a lengthy days-long production, can play a crucial role in the final product. So, prepare yourself, network, and keep an open mind for every opportunity that comes your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the difference between a background actor and an extra?

A: In the film and television industry, the terms "background actor" and "extra" are essentially interchangeable. Both refer to individuals who play non-speaking roles or minor speaking roles in a production, typically without dialogue or as part of the background population. Extras enhance the realism and appearance of scenes by populating the environment with realistic-looking characters.

Q: How much can a background actor earn?

A: Pay rates for background actors can vary significantly based on the production, location, and industry standards. According to SAG AFTRA, background actors are typically paid a per diem rate for each day they work on a production. For example, the rate for a three-day call would be approximately $347, as mentioned in the source material. However, earnings can vary, and some productions may offer tiered rates based on the actor's availability and experience.

Q: What should I include in my resume as a background actor?

A: When preparing a resume for a background actor role, it's essential to list all relevant physical attributes such as height, weight, and hair color. Additionally, include any unique skills or talents that you possess, as these can make you stand out to casting directors. Examples of skills include skateboarding, horseback riding, dancing, and athletic abilities. Mentioning these skills can increase your chances of landing a role, as they add value to the production team.