Background Acting Jobs and Extras Casting Calls

Background work is how a lot of actors get their first day on a professional set. You are part of the world of the scene rather than the story, but the call time, the paperwork, the waiting and the on-set etiquette are the same ones you will use on every job after it.

Every notice below is a live listing from our board that includes at least one background or featured background role. We publish the production details we can verify — location, dates, compensation and deadline — and nothing we cannot.

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Live background acting roles (29)

How this work runs

What productions ask for

Most background calls want current photos, your sizes, your general availability and confirmation that you can get yourself to the location. Very few ask for a taped audition, so a clean, recent snapshot matters more than a polished reel.

Union and non-union

Union background work has set rates, guaranteed breaks and bump payments for things like wardrobe changes and getting wet. Non-union rates vary widely. The union status on each notice is taken from what the production told us.

Turnaround is short

Background needs are often filled within days of posting. Check the deadline on the notice and submit the same day you see it if you can.

Questions actors ask

Do I need an agent for background work?

No. Background and extras casting is one of the few areas where productions and casting offices routinely take direct submissions from actors.

Do I need a headshot?

A current, clearly lit photo that looks like you today is usually enough. Professional headshots help but are rarely required for background roles.

Does background work count as credit on my resume?

Background work generally does not go on an acting resume as a credit. It is valuable for set experience, income and union eligibility rather than for your credit list.

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