The Difference Between a Principal Actor and a Background Actor
Interested in appearing in a movie or TV show? A great way to get on set is to sign up as a background actor with Central Casting. But what is a background actor and how are they different from the main characters you see on screen?
What is a principal actor?
Generally, a principal actor is someone with a speaking role on camera. This classification can mean different things depending on the type of production (commercials have different rules than movies and TV shows) or the contract an actor is working under. There are cases when an actor does not speak on camera, but is considered a principal performer, often when the role requires a certain level of acting.
While Central Casting does not typically book principal roles, casting directors and production companies do cast stand-ins who work closely with principal actors behind the scenes. While not seen on screen, stand-ins take the place of a principal actor for rehearsals, camera blocking and lighting set-ups.
What is a Background Actor?
Background actors perform in a non-speaking role, usually in the background of scenes, and help bring life to all kinds of productions. Without background actors, there'd be empty courtrooms on Law & Order, a deserted university in Tell Me Lies and no patients to treat in The Pitt.
Working as background not only gives you a behind the scenes look at how your favorite movies and TV shows are made, but offers an opportunity to get your foot in the door of the entertainment industry.
On set, background actors are given instructions by assistant directors who direct them where and when to move in a scene. While filming, background may cross in front of the camera, pantomime a conversation with another background actor or even interact with the principal cast.
It's possible that a background actor can be given a line and upgraded to principal during filming. This is done based on the discretion and needs of the production, please do not ask to be upgraded or given a line on set.
As with principal work, there are exceptions to background actors being purely non-speaking roles. For example, a group of background actors can say exclamatory words on camera and still be considered background. Again, the assistant director will give you instructions on what to do in a scene, please don't speak on camera unless you're asked to.
How to work as a background actor
Central Casting and production companies book background actors every day in movies and TV shows. Signing up is free and there is no experience required.
If you are already signed up with Central Casting, one of the best ways to set yourself up for success is to keep your online profile updated with your correct sizes, accurate appearance information and current photos. Casting directors and production companies use the information in your profile when booking their shows, so the more accurate and thorough you are, the easier it is for them to determine the types on roles you can portray. If you fit the requirements for a role, they may reach out with an availability inquiry. You can also look for posts on our Open Roles page and submit when you find something that matches your description.