How To Be Cast as a Movie Extra in Los Angeles
- LA Today
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
Dream of seeing yourself on screen, casually sipping coffee in the background while a Hollywood A-lister delivers an Oscar worthy performance? Becoming a movie extra is one of the easiest ways to step into the world of Film and TV. If you’re in LA and ready for your close-up (even if it’s just behind someone else’s close-up), here’s everything you need to know about becoming a movie extra in Los Angeles.
What is a Movie Extra?
A movie extra, otherwise known as a background actor is the human set decoration that makes movies and TV shows feel alive. You’re the person walking around the park, eating at the fancy restaurant, or pretending to have a deep conversation at a party while the stars do their thing. You won’t have lines, but you will have access to Hollywood’s biggest sets, a chance to be on screen, and — let’s be honest — a great story to tell.
How Do You Get Started as a Movie Extra in Los Angeles?
How do you go from just watching movies to being in them? It’s actually easier than you think...
Sign Up with a Casting Agency: the best way to get cast is to register with agencies that specialize in background actors. The biggest name in the game is Central Casting, but other great options include Backstage and Casting Networks. Sign up, stay ready, and before you know it, you’ll be rubbing elbows with Hollywood’s finest.
Create a Profile on Casting Websites: some productions post background roles on casting sites. Having an updated profile with basic info makes it easier for casting directors to find you. A headshot is a must, doesn’t have to be professional, but be sure that we can see your beautiful persona — we want to see what you actually look like.
Look the Part – No, you don’t need to be a model. But you do need to be versatile. Casting directors love extras who can fit different vibes; business casual one day, street wear the next. Own a suit? That’s a major plus.
Where Do You Go to Find Movie Extra Castings?
If you’re in LA, background work is everywhere; you just need to know where to look.
Central Casting: The gold standard for extras. Sign up in person or online, and they will send you available gigs.
Backstage: More than just extras; you’ll find speaking roles, commercials, and indie films too.
Casting Networks: Great for commercials and TV background work.
Friends & Networking: Make friends on set with other extras and crew members. They often share tips on upcoming gigs that aren’t widely advertised. Leave a good impression and there's a good chance that the AD (assistant director) or producer will need you again. BONUS TIP: Join one of LA Today's industry events to network with working entertainment professionals.
What's the Experience on Set as a Movie Extra?
Welcome to the "Hurry Up and Wait" show: The Movie Extra Experience. Being on set is exciting, but be prepared for long hours, a lot of sitting around, and the occasional brush with fame. And like Stanislavsky always said, “There are no small parts, only small actors.” Bring your A-game.
💡 Pro Tips for Surviving Set Life:
Follow Directions. The assistant director will tell you what to do, your job is to listen and don’t wander into places you shouldn’t.
Bring Entertainment. You’ll have a lot of downtime. Bring a book, a phone charger, or notebook and pen to write your Oscar-winning screenplay.
Be Professional. Number one, even if you are feet away from your favorite celebrity, play it cool. Remember, the actors are there to do a job, not take selfies with you. Number two, come prepared. If you are playing a Punk-Rock concert-goer, it might help to do a little research so you know how to realistically act like one.
Network Smartly. Extras don’t have direct access to directors, but being polite and professional can get you noticed. You never know when a small connection can lead to a bigger opportunity.
Want a sneak peek of what life is like as an extra? Check out this video:
How Do I Transition from Movie Extra to Featured Roles?
So, you’ve been in a dozen background gigs and now you’re ready to be a star. Here’s how to transition from blurry person to an actual actor:
Take Acting Classes: If you want to stand out, take a few acting workshops. Many classes offer industry connections that might land you your next gig.
Upgrade Your Headshots & Resume: Start branding yourself as an actor, not just an extra. A solid resume and professional photos go a long way in the acting industry. A decent social media presence doesn't hurt either.
Get an Agent: Extras don’t need agents, but actors do. Once you’ve got some experience, start reaching out to talent agents who can help you land roles.
Go for Featured Background Roles: Featured roles are extras who get a tiny bit more screen time, maybe even some lines. Think: “bartender who hands the lead actor a drink” instead of just “random bar patron.” Stick around as an extra long enough and you might score some SAG vouchers from the AD – your golden ticket to bigger paychecks in the industry.
Audition, Audition, Audition. Keep an eye out for small speaking roles in indie films, student films, and commercials. Every role is a stepping stone.
How Much Does a Movie Extra Earn?
Movie extras in Los Angeles can earn a decent paycheck, but the pay varies based on many factors like union status, the type of production, and the length of the shoot. Here’s the rundown:
Non-Union Extras: The standard rate for non-union background actors starts at $100–$150 per day.
Union Extras: Join the Screen Actors Guild (American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) and the pay increases significantly. The base rate for union extras is about $187 per 8-hour day, with extra compensation for overtime, special skills, etc.
Commercials & Featured Extra Roles: being a background actor in a commercial can be far more lucrative, with rates starting at $500 per day, plus residuals if the commercial airs repeatedly. Featured extras (those who get a bit of screen time but no lines) may also earn slightly more than regular background actors.
The best part? Even if you’re just a blur in the background, you’re getting paid to be on a real Hollywood set. That’s pretty cool.
Ready for your Hollywood debut? Being a movie extra in Los Angeles isn’t just about filling space in the background, it’s about getting your foot in the door of the film industry, making connections, and having truly incredible experiences along the way. Whether you’re doing it for fun or turning it into a career, there’s no feeling like seeing yourself on screen. Hollywood is calling. Are you ready?
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