One of the most common questions I get asked from newer talent is…Should I work as a background?
The correct answer – for you, depends on where you’re at in your entertainment industry career, and how much time and flexibility you have.
When I first started in the industry in Los Angeles I made myself fully available for classes, castings, and bookings. That also meant I was unavailable to work a traditional full-time job. No job = no consistent income. Because of that, I signed up for any and all background opportunities. Background work had lower pay, longer days, and little to no recognition in the projects – but each one paid fast cash at the end of the day. And mama needed the money for gas and groceries.
I worked as a passerby in an Avril Lavigne music video on the Paramount lot. I was an audience member for numerous live show tapings: Jersey Shore reunion *prime reality tv days lol*, MTV’s
America’s Best Dance Crew, Dancing with the Stars, and Karaoke Battle. I was a blurry face in the background for more music videos and reality tv shows than I can even remember.
But here’s what I learned…
The Experience
I chose to work as a background because I needed the money. What I hadn’t considered was how quickly I’d learn the ropes and gain experience. I developed relationships with casting directors. I recognized familiar faces (crew + talent) on set. I started to understand how set dynamics worked and how long days could be. I began feeling comfortable on professional sets. More time on set = more experience = more confidence on set.
The Possibilities
Here’s something many people don’t realize: background talent can occasionally be upgraded to featured roles. It’s not common, and it shouldn’t be your expectation — but it is a real possibility. When it happens, your pay increases and you’re featured on camera.
So Should You Work as Background Talent?
If you’re just getting started in the industry – absolutely. The experience is well worth it. More time on set = more education and understanding of the industry. Plus it can be fun! You get to see the projects before they’re released and you might even work with an icon in the industry.
But if you have a steady job and you’re unable to take the day off – the lower pay and sacrifice might not be worth it. In that case, it might be smarter to hold off until the opportunity and pay align better with your schedule.
The Bottom Line
For new talent, background work can offer real-world education you won’t get in a class. You’ll see how crews move, how talent is treated, and how professionalism shows up on set. Think of it as paid experience — then reassess as you grow.
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