Why Background Acting is One of the Best Summer Jobs
For some students, summer break means sunshine and pool parties, but for others it means looking for summer jobs. Fortunately, working as a background actor gives you the opportunity to do both.
What is a background actor?
A background actor is someone who performs in a show in a nonspeaking role, usually in the background of scenes. Background actors are essential to making movies and TV shows feel authentic. There is no experience required to work as a background actor, so you can still get hired even if you don't have acting training or if you have never been on a film set before.
Casting directors and production companies cast Central Casting background actors to appear in movies, TV shows and many other types of productions. There are many opportunities to get hired this summer and throughout the year.
Benefits of working as a background actor
If a flexible schedule and working on set are what you're looking for in a summer job, then background work is a great fit for you. As a background actor, you can choose your own availability, so if you have a fun trip planned or you just want to head to the beach for the day, you can choose not to pursue jobs for those dates. That said, once you accept a job offer and are given details, you are expected to show up to set on time and ready to work.
Background work gives you a front row seat to how movies and TV shows are made and an opportunity to work with some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Whether you're pursuing a full-time career in the entertainment industry or just want a peek behind the scenes, you can learn a lot by being a background actor.
How to sign up as a background actor
Signing up is free and easy! Just fill out your online application, then upload a headshot and full body photo. Depending on your location, there may be additional steps before we can book you for a role. Learn more by choosing your location on our Get Cast page.
Interested in signing your child up for background acting roles? Babies 15 days old to teenagers 17 years old are also eligible to sign up and there are plenty of opportunities this summer for your minor to get on set.
How to find work
Once you've signed up, there are two main ways to find work through Central Casting: replying to messages from casting directors and production companies and submitting for work on our Open Roles page. If you to fit the requirements for a role being cast, you may receive an availability inquiry asking if you are available and interested in working on a certain date. Remember, these messages are only asking if you are available and are not guarantees of work.
You can also proactively submit for jobs by finding roles you fit on the Open Roles page. These posts include specific information about the role, like portrayable age, portrayable ethnicity, SAG-AFTRA status, sizes and other specifications. If you fit the description, submit according to the instructions given, then a casting director or production company may reach out with an availability inquiry.
Ready to work on your favorite movies and TV shows this summer? Learn more about preparing for set and working as a background actor in our Talent Resources.