Do Extras in Commercials Get Paid?
If you’ve ever watched a commercial and noticed the background actors—those people sipping coffee in a café, walking down the street, or cheering at a sports event—you may have wondered: do these extras get paid? The answer is yes, but the amount and conditions vary based on several factors, including the type of production, location, union status, and level of experience. In this article, we’ll explore how extras in commercials are compensated, what determines their pay, and how someone can become an extra.
What Are Extras in Commercials?
Extras, also known as background actors, are people who appear in commercials without speaking roles. Their job is to enhance the scene’s realism by populating the background, making the commercial feel more natural and engaging. Unlike principal actors who deliver lines and interact with the main product or message, extras remain non-speaking but still contribute to the overall production quality.
Do Extras in Commercials Get Paid?
Yes, extras in commercials do get paid. However, the amount varies based on factors such as:
- Union vs. Non-Union Work
- The Type of Commercial
- The Location of the Shoot
- Duration of the Shoot
Let’s break down each of these factors to understand how they influence an extra’s pay.
Union vs. Non-Union Work
One of the biggest factors that determines how much extras get paid is whether the commercial is a union or non-union production.
Union Commercials (SAG-AFTRA)
If the commercial is produced under a Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) contract, background actors receive union wages and benefits. As of recent SAG-AFTRA agreements, union extras in commercials can expect to earn a minimum daily rate, which is typically over $187 per day. However, this number fluctuates depending on the contract.
Union extras also receive overtime pay if they work beyond a standard 8-hour day, plus additional payments for things like:
- Wardrobe changes
- Night shoots
- Meal penalties (if breaks are delayed)
Additionally, union extras in commercials may earn residuals if the commercial airs repeatedly, especially if they are prominently featured.
Non-Union Commercials
Non-union commercials don’t follow the same structured pay scales. While non-union extras still get paid, their rates vary widely and are often negotiated by production companies. Many non-union background actors earn between $50 and $150 per day, but this depends on the project and budget.
Unlike union extras, non-union extras usually do not receive residuals and may not be eligible for overtime pay or additional benefits like health insurance contributions.
Types of Commercials and Pay Differences
The type of commercial also influences how much an extra gets paid.
National Commercials vs. Local Commercials
- National commercials (aired across the country) tend to have higher budgets and can pay more than local ads. If an extra appears in a high-profile national ad, they may earn a higher base rate, and if they are a union worker, they could also receive residuals.
- Local commercials (broadcasted in a specific region or city) generally have lower budgets, meaning extras may be paid at a lower rate, often in the range of $50 to $100 per day.
Internet and Social Media Commercials
With the rise of digital advertising, many commercials are made exclusively for YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok ads. These online ads often have lower budgets than traditional TV commercials, so extras working in them may earn less than those appearing in broadcast commercials.
For non-union digital commercials, extras may be paid a flat rate without overtime or residuals, and the pay can range from $75 to $200 per day depending on the production.
Other Factors That Affect Extra Pay
Location
Where the commercial is filmed can influence pay rates. In major film hubs like Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta, extras generally earn more due to higher production budgets and stronger union presence. In smaller cities, rates may be lower due to less competition and fewer union productions.
Length of the Shoot
Most commercial shoots last a single day, but if an extra is needed for multiple days, they are typically paid for each day they work. If the production runs longer than 8 hours, union extras earn overtime pay (typically 1.5 times the hourly rate).
Featured Extras vs. Regular Extras
A featured extra is someone in the background who is more noticeable than a standard extra but still doesn’t have speaking lines. For example, if an extra is shown clearly in the foreground of a shot or performing a specific action, they might be considered “featured.”
While they may not earn as much as a principal actor, featured extras sometimes receive a slightly higher rate or may even qualify for residuals if the commercial is widely aired.
How to Become an Extra in Commercials
If you’re interested in becoming an extra in commercials, here are some steps to get started:
1. Sign Up with a Casting Agency
Most background actors find work through casting agencies that specialize in extras. Agencies like Central Casting (Los Angeles and New York) and Bill Marinella Casting (Atlanta) post casting calls for commercial extras. Many of these agencies allow you to register for free and submit your profile online.
2. Look for Casting Calls
Websites like Backstage, Casting Networks, and Actors Access regularly post extra roles in commercials. Following casting agencies on social media can also help you stay updated on upcoming commercial shoots.
3. Have a Professional Photo
Extras typically don’t need a full portfolio or professional headshots, but having a clear, well-lit photo is important. Some casting agencies may require a headshot and full-body shot for submission.
4. Be Reliable and Professional
Producers value extras who show up on time, follow directions, and remain professional on set. Being reliable can lead to future opportunities, as casting directors may remember you for future projects.
5. Consider Joining SAG-AFTRA
If you start working frequently as an extra and want higher pay, better benefits, and more protections, you might consider joining SAG-AFTRA. However, becoming eligible can take time, as you need to work a certain number of union jobs before qualifying.
Final Thoughts: Is Being an Extra in Commercials Worth It?
While being an extra in commercials won’t make you rich, it can be a great way to earn extra cash, gain experience on set, and potentially open doors to more acting opportunities.
For those looking to make a full-time career in acting, starting as an extra can help build connections in the industry. And for those who just want a fun side gig, working as an extra in commercials can be a great way to see the behind-the-scenes world of TV advertising while earning some money.
Whether you’re pursuing it as a stepping stone or just as a fun experience, commercial extras do get paid—and with the right approach, it can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
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