Earning Extra Cash as a Film or TV Background Actor: A Lucrative Side Hustle?
Working as a background actor, also known as an extra, is a fantastic way to earn some extra cash while having the opportunity to see yourself on screen. With various agencies and casting calls available, this side hustle can be lucrative for those who are flexible and willing to take on short-term roles.
To get started, you'll need to sign up with one or more reputable agencies such as Uni-versal Extras, Extra People, or Casting Collective. These agencies charge registration fees and commission on bookings, but they will also provide valuable guidance and support throughout the process.
Once you've registered, create a profile that showcases your physical characteristics, skills, and experience. This will help casting directors find the right fit for their productions. Be prepared to provide recent photos, measurements, and any relevant information about your availability and flexibility.
As an extra, you can expect to earn between £150 and £250 per day, depending on the production and your location. However, this rate is not set by the agency but by a union pay scheme or industry standard. Extras may also receive additional compensation for specific tasks, such as attending costume fittings or participating in special effects.
Working as an extra requires flexibility and patience, as filming days can be long and change at short notice. You'll need to be willing to wait around for extended periods and follow instructions carefully. Despite the occasional frustration, many background actors find this experience rewarding and enjoyable.
To make the most of this side hustle, it's essential to check your employment status and pay your own tax and national insurance as a self-employed individual. With the right mindset and preparation, earning extra cash as a film or TV background actor can be a fun and lucrative experience.
One recent example of an extra's earnings is Theo Fraser, who worked on Christopher Nolan's 2017 war film Dunkirk. He earned around £250 for one day of filming, plus an additional £50 as compensation for having his hair cut during the shoot.
Overall, working as a background actor can be a great way to earn some extra cash while gaining experience in the film and TV industry. With the right attitude and preparation, you can take advantage of this side hustle and enjoy the benefits of being part of the entertainment world.
Working as a background actor, also known as an extra, is a fantastic way to earn some extra cash while having the opportunity to see yourself on screen. With various agencies and casting calls available, this side hustle can be lucrative for those who are flexible and willing to take on short-term roles.
To get started, you'll need to sign up with one or more reputable agencies such as Uni-versal Extras, Extra People, or Casting Collective. These agencies charge registration fees and commission on bookings, but they will also provide valuable guidance and support throughout the process.
Once you've registered, create a profile that showcases your physical characteristics, skills, and experience. This will help casting directors find the right fit for their productions. Be prepared to provide recent photos, measurements, and any relevant information about your availability and flexibility.
As an extra, you can expect to earn between £150 and £250 per day, depending on the production and your location. However, this rate is not set by the agency but by a union pay scheme or industry standard. Extras may also receive additional compensation for specific tasks, such as attending costume fittings or participating in special effects.
Working as an extra requires flexibility and patience, as filming days can be long and change at short notice. You'll need to be willing to wait around for extended periods and follow instructions carefully. Despite the occasional frustration, many background actors find this experience rewarding and enjoyable.
To make the most of this side hustle, it's essential to check your employment status and pay your own tax and national insurance as a self-employed individual. With the right mindset and preparation, earning extra cash as a film or TV background actor can be a fun and lucrative experience.
One recent example of an extra's earnings is Theo Fraser, who worked on Christopher Nolan's 2017 war film Dunkirk. He earned around £250 for one day of filming, plus an additional £50 as compensation for having his hair cut during the shoot.
Overall, working as a background actor can be a great way to earn some extra cash while gaining experience in the film and TV industry. With the right attitude and preparation, you can take advantage of this side hustle and enjoy the benefits of being part of the entertainment world.
think about it though, getting paid to just chill on set all day sounds like the ultimate flex 
but u gotta be down to wait around for hours and deal with all the drama that comes with it. I got a friend who did this and she said it was super boring, just standing there in costume waiting for the camera to roll 
. But hey, if you're willin' to put in the work, you can earn some decent cash (£150-£250/day) - that's pretty sweet 
! Just make sure you do your own taxes as a self-employed person, 'cause it's not always clear-cut 
Earning £150-£250 a day just for showing up to set sounds like a dream come true 
! And can you even imagine getting paid to hang out in costume and have your hair cut on the job? 
I'm totally signing up with one of those agencies ASAP! 
I mean, have you seen those casting calls? So many jobs available for extras! 
It's like they're looking for people to just chill on set all day 
. But for real, £150-£250 per day is pretty decent pay. I've been thinking of giving it a shot myself, but I need to make sure my profile looks fire 
. Don't want to get overlooked because of my mediocre pics 
. And what's with the agency fees? 
I'm really fascinated by the prospect of earning extra cash as a background actor in film and TV productions. It's not just about collecting a paycheck, but also about having the opportunity to be part of a creative process and see your likeness on screen. The fact that agencies like Uni-versal Extras and Extra People offer valuable guidance and support is a major plus. However, it's essential to be aware of the potential frustrations that come with this line of work, such as long filming days and last-minute changes. Despite these challenges, many background actors seem to find the experience rewarding, which is definitely worth considering for those looking to supplement their income. 
. £150-£250 per day is no joke tho, that's some serious extra cash 
.
! But, like Theo Fraser said, it's worth it for the cash 
. Just make sure you keep track of your finances and taxes 
, 'cause that's gotta be a pain 
. Anyway, it's definitely worth checking out 
I think it's dope how people can make bank as extras on set. I mean, who wouldn't want to hang out with celebs all day? It's like a dream come true for some folks. But you're right, it does require being flexible and patient, 'cause you never know when the shoot's gonna change plans or go over schedule. 
!
But hey, who wouldn't wanna b on set w/ famous ppl 
... anyway, so being an extra on a movie or TV show sounds kinda cool, but isn't it like, super competitive?