Have you ever wondered how much those background actors in your favorite TV shows make? Being a TV extra, also known as a background actor or supernumerary, can be a fascinating and rewarding experience. Not only do you get to be on set and see the inner workings of a TV production, but you also get to earn some extra money on the side. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of TV extras and explore how much they can expect to make.
What is a TV Extra?
A TV extra is a person who appears in the background of a TV show or film, usually without any speaking lines. They are used to add realism and depth to a scene, and can be seen walking in the background, sitting in a crowd, or engaging in various activities. TV extras can be used in a variety of settings, from historical dramas to modern-day sitcoms.
Types of TV Extras
There are several types of TV extras, each with their own specific role and requirements. Some common types of TV extras include:
- Background extras: These are the most common type of TV extra, and are used to fill out the background of a scene. They may be asked to walk, sit, or engage in various activities.
- Featured extras: These extras are used to add a specific element to a scene, such as a person walking down the street or a customer in a store. They may be asked to perform a specific action or wear a certain costume.
- Special ability extras: These extras have a specific skill or talent, such as dancing, playing a musical instrument, or riding a horse. They are used to add a unique element to a scene.
- Stand-ins: These extras are used to replace the main actors during rehearsals or when the camera is not rolling. They are usually used to help the camera and lighting crew set up shots.
How Much Do TV Extras Make?
The amount of money a TV extra can make varies widely depending on the production, the location, and the type of extra work. Here are some general rate ranges for TV extras:
- Background extras: $100-$200 per day
- Featured extras: $200-$500 per day
- Special ability extras: $500-$1,000 per day
- Stand-ins: $200-$500 per day
It’s worth noting that these are just general rate ranges, and the actual amount of money a TV extra can make may be higher or lower. Some productions may pay more for extras, while others may pay less.
Factors That Affect Pay
There are several factors that can affect how much a TV extra makes. Some of these factors include:
- Location: Productions that film in major cities like Los Angeles or New York may pay more for extras than productions that film in smaller cities or towns.
- Production type: TV shows and films may pay more for extras than commercials or industrial videos.
- Union membership: Extras who are members of a union, such as the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA), may be paid more than non-union extras.
- Experience: Extras with more experience may be paid more than those with less experience.
How to Become a TV Extra
If you’re interested in becoming a TV extra, there are several steps you can take:
- Get headshots: You’ll need to have professional headshots taken to submit to casting agencies and productions.
- Create a resume: Make sure your resume includes any relevant experience, such as acting classes or previous extra work.
- Join a casting agency: Many casting agencies specialize in extra casting, and can help you find work on TV shows and films.
- Look for open calls: Many productions hold open calls for extras, where you can show up and audition in person.
Tips for TV Extras
Here are some tips for TV extras:
- Be on time: Make sure to arrive on set on time, and be prepared to work long hours.
- Follow directions: Pay attention to the instructions of the director and other crew members, and follow their directions carefully.
- Be professional: Remember that you’re representing yourself and the production, so be professional and courteous at all times.
- Have fun: Being a TV extra can be a fun and rewarding experience, so enjoy yourself and take advantage of the opportunity to be on set.
Conclusion
Being a TV extra can be a fun and rewarding experience, and can also be a great way to earn some extra money. While the pay may not be high, it can be a good way to get your foot in the door and gain experience in the entertainment industry. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of success as a TV extra and make the most of your experience.
| Production Type | Average Pay per Day |
|---|---|
| TV Show | $150-$300 |
| Film | $200-$500 |
| Commercial | $100-$200 |
| Industrial Video | $50-$100 |
Note: The pay rates listed in the table are just averages, and can vary widely depending on the specific production and location.
How much do TV extras make per hour?
TV extras, also known as background actors, can make varying amounts of money per hour depending on the production, location, and their level of experience. On average, TV extras can make anywhere from $10 to $20 per hour, although some productions may pay more or less. For example, a TV extra working on a low-budget production may make around $10 per hour, while one working on a high-budget production may make up to $25 per hour.
It’s worth noting that TV extras are often paid a flat rate for their work, rather than an hourly wage. This means that they may be paid a set amount for a full day’s work, regardless of how many hours they actually work. For example, a TV extra may be paid $100 for a full day’s work, even if they only work for 6 hours.
Do TV extras get benefits?
TV extras are typically considered freelance workers or independent contractors, which means they do not receive benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans. However, some productions may offer benefits to their TV extras, such as meals or transportation reimbursement. Additionally, TV extras who are members of a union, such as the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA), may be eligible for benefits such as health insurance and pension plans.
It’s worth noting that TV extras who work on a regular basis may be able to negotiate benefits with the production company. For example, a TV extra who works on a long-running TV show may be able to negotiate a contract that includes benefits such as health insurance or paid time off.
How do TV extras get paid?
TV extras are typically paid by the production company, either directly or through a payroll service. The payment process can vary depending on the production and the TV extra’s individual circumstances. For example, some TV extras may be paid in cash at the end of the day, while others may receive a paycheck in the mail.
In some cases, TV extras may be required to fill out paperwork or submit invoices in order to receive payment. This is typically the case for TV extras who are considered independent contractors, rather than employees of the production company. TV extras who are members of a union may also have different payment arrangements, such as receiving payment through the union.
Can TV extras make a living wage?
It can be challenging for TV extras to make a living wage, as the pay is often low and the work can be sporadic. However, some TV extras are able to make a living wage by working regularly and taking on other jobs in the entertainment industry. For example, a TV extra may also work as a stand-in, a photo double, or a commercial actor.
To make a living wage as a TV extra, it’s often necessary to be flexible and willing to take on a variety of jobs. This may involve working long hours, traveling to different locations, and being available on short notice. TV extras who are members of a union may also have more opportunities to make a living wage, as they may be eligible for higher pay rates and benefits.
How do TV extras find work?
TV extras can find work through a variety of means, including online casting calls, talent agencies, and word of mouth. Many productions also hire TV extras through online casting platforms, such as Backstage or Casting Networks. Additionally, TV extras may be able to find work by attending open casting calls or by submitting their headshots and resumes to production companies.
Some TV extras also find work by networking with other actors and industry professionals. For example, a TV extra may meet a casting director or a production assistant on set and ask about future job opportunities. TV extras who are members of a union may also have access to more job opportunities, as they may be eligible to work on union productions.
Do TV extras need experience?
While experience can be helpful for TV extras, it’s not always necessary. Many productions are willing to hire TV extras with little or no experience, as long as they have the right look and are able to follow directions. However, having experience can be beneficial in getting hired for more prominent roles or for working on higher-budget productions.
TV extras who have experience may also be able to negotiate higher pay rates or better working conditions. Additionally, experience can be helpful in getting hired for recurring roles or for working on long-running TV shows. TV extras who are members of a union may also need to have a certain amount of experience in order to be eligible for union membership.
Can anyone be a TV extra?
Almost anyone can be a TV extra, as long as they meet the production’s requirements. This may include having a certain look, being a certain age or size, or having specific skills or experience. For example, a production may be looking for TV extras who are a certain height or weight, or who have a specific type of hair or clothing.
However, some productions may have specific requirements or restrictions for TV extras. For example, a production may require TV extras to be at least 18 years old, or to have a certain type of identification or paperwork. Additionally, some productions may have rules or regulations governing the behavior of TV extras on set, such as rules about using cell phones or taking photos.