Why Background work is not an acting career.
I remember when I first moved to New York, living was tight. I needed extra money. So I did some background work on a few tv shows. I was astonished as I sat in among, what I assumed were other professional actors, and found…most of them weren’t. Yes, perhaps they all had an interest in becoming an actor but most of them were under the grand illusion that a day on set, doing background work in among a crowd of hundreds, was going to make them a star. They would be plucked out of the throng and become the next Meryl Streep. However, most background roles do not even require an audition. Just a photo and sizes. Many of the background actors I spoke with had never even been to an audition.
That is not to say I did not meet other professionals like myself who needed extra cash, or wanted to have the experience…and yes, rarely an extra will be given more of a role…but usually it’s a line, maybe two if you’re lucky. So lets discuss background work and why you may, or may not, want to do it.
For many actors, landing background work—sometimes referred to as extra work—is a common starting point in the entertainment industry. While it can provide valuable experience and an introduction to the world of film and television, it’s important to understand that background work is not the same as pursuing an acting career. Here’s why background work should be seen as just one piece of the puzzle, rather than the career itself.
1. Background Work vs. Acting Roles
Background work involves appearing in scenes as a non-speaking, often indistinguishable participant, such as a passerby in a crowd or a diner in a restaurant scene. The primary role of a background actor is to create a sense of realism and fill out scenes, without the need for dialogue or character development. In contrast, an acting career involves taking on roles with lines, emotional depth, and character arcs. Acting requires a wide range of skills, including voice modulation, emotional expression, and complex character work, which go beyond what background work entails.
2. Limited Exposure to Craft Development
While background work can offer some insight into the filming process, it doesn’t provide the same opportunities for developing your acting craft. Acting roles require significant preparation, character analysis, and performance skills that are not part of the background work experience. To build a successful acting career, one needs to hone their craft through training, rehearsals, and performances—experiences that are typically absent in background work.
3. Lack of Creative Input
Background actors generally do not have creative input into the scenes they appear in. They follow direction without the opportunity to contribute to character development or storylines. In contrast, acting careers involve collaboration with directors, writers, and other actors to shape and bring characters to life. This creative collaboration is a core aspect of an acting career and is not a part of the background work experience.
4. Short-Term vs. Long-Term Career Goals
Background work can be a stepping stone or a way to gain experience, but it should not be confused with a long-term career goal. Many actors start with background work as they build their resumes and gain industry experience, but an acting career requires moving beyond these roles to pursue substantial, challenging parts. It’s essential to set long-term career goals that include training, auditions, and lead roles rather than relying solely on background work.
5. Limited Career Advancement
While background work can provide networking opportunities and insight into the industry, it generally doesn’t lead to significant career advancement. Background actors are often not considered for principal or speaking roles unless they transition to other areas of acting, such as auditioning for roles with dialogue and character development. Building a career as an actor involves actively seeking out and pursuing more substantial roles that contribute to long-term career growth.
6. Recognition and Reward
Acting careers are often driven by recognition and reward for one's performance—whether through critical acclaim, awards, or personal satisfaction. Background work, on the other hand, is usually not recognized at all. The job of a background actor is just that, to blend into the background. To achieve career milestones and recognition, actors must pursue roles that allow them to showcase their skills and talent.
7. Financial Considerations
Background work typically offers lower pay compared to speaking roles or principal acting jobs. For many actors, making a sustainable living from background work alone is challenging. A successful acting career involves seeking out opportunities that provide better financial stability, including principal roles, commercial work, and other high-profile projects. However, for those actors looking to make some extra cash. It can be a good idea. You can meet people, gain set exposure, and sometimes it can be fun to be around the hustle and bustle but not have the pressure of carrying a scene. Getting to watch other professionals work is a great learning experience.
However, Relying on background work to catapult your career will limit growth and opportunities. To advance an acting career, actors should seek roles that allow them to showcase their talents and progress beyond background work.
While background work is a valuable experience for gaining insight into the entertainment industry and can provide initial exposure, it should not be considered an acting career in itself. A true acting career involves pursuing acting roles, developing your craft, and striving for creative and professional growth. If you’re passionate about acting, use background work as a stepping stone and focus on building a career through networking, training, and auditions. Remember, an acting career is about more than just appearing on set—it’s about making a meaningful impact through your performances and contributions to the craft.
