Working as an Extra on Film and TV Sets: A Lucrative Side Hustle
For those who have always dreamed of seeing themselves on screen or simply want a fun way to earn some extra cash, working as an extra (or "supporting artist") can be a lucrative side hustle. Extras are the people populating the background of television shows, films, and commercials to make them look realistic – think drinkers in EastEnders pub the Queen Vic, or passersby outside Slough House in the Apple TV+ show Slow Horses.
The job does not require any acting experience, and extras rarely have any dialogue. To get started, you need to register with one or more agencies such as Uni-versal Extras, Extra People, Ray Knight Casting, Phoenix Casting, or Casting Collective. These agencies make money through registration fees, commission on bookings, or both.
Reputable agencies will clearly explain their fees upfront, and it's essential to avoid any demanding a large upfront payment or guaranteeing work, as these could be scams. According to Casting Collective, extras can expect to be paid between £150 and £250 a day on average, which is usually worked out according to a union pay scheme, not the agency you use.
The pay is normally made up of a basic day (or night) rate, plus holiday pay and overtime, with higher rates on bank holidays. Supplementary rates apply if you are required to do certain things such as attending a separate costume fitting, bringing several outfit options, having your hair cut, swimming, getting wet, driving, or delivering any dialogue.
To increase your chances of landing extra work, it's essential to create a profile that showcases your physical statistics, skills, and relevant experience. You will need to provide basic details, such as your name, age, address, and a headshot, full-length photo, and sometimes images in business dress, uniforms, or sports kit.
Job inquiries will come via email or text, often using code names to keep productions confidential. The message will outline the role, rough location, call time, and estimated finish time. You need to confirm your availability and may be "pencilled in" or "heavy pencilled in" if shortlisted. If you are not selected, you will be "released" later on; if you are booked, the "call sheet" with exact details will usually arrive the night before.
Being an extra is not glamorous – it often involves long hours, waiting around, and following instructions carefully. You may spend time in costume or makeup, have to stand in the rain, or need to repeat the same scene all day. Do not get starstruck – extras should not approach the main cast or ask for selfies or autographs.
Most productions ban taking photos or videos, and phones may be confiscated on set. Bring something to pass the time, such as a book, as you will often have long periods of downtime.
Background artists are paid for travel, too – how much depends on the distance and time of day. Productions using Equity rates pay from £4 to £20 for travel, depending on mileage, with an extra £9 for calls pre-6am (7am on Sundays or bank holidays).
Food is usually provided on-set. Where it is not, the pay is about £5 to £25 a meal, depending on whether it is breakfast, lunch, or dinner, location, and union rates. You will get paid more if a meal break is delayed, cut short, or missed.
As an extra, you are considered self-employed, so you need to pay your own tax and national insurance. Under HM Revenue and Customs "trading allowance" rules, you can earn up to £1,000 tax-free each year from trading online, self-employment, and various other side hustles. If you earn more than this, you will need to register as self-employed and submit a self-assessment tax return.
The work is perfect for students, freelancers, and retirees who have flexible schedules. It is less suitable for anyone who needs a strict routine, as filming days can be long and change at short notice.
For those who have always dreamed of seeing themselves on screen or simply want a fun way to earn some extra cash, working as an extra (or "supporting artist") can be a lucrative side hustle. Extras are the people populating the background of television shows, films, and commercials to make them look realistic – think drinkers in EastEnders pub the Queen Vic, or passersby outside Slough House in the Apple TV+ show Slow Horses.
The job does not require any acting experience, and extras rarely have any dialogue. To get started, you need to register with one or more agencies such as Uni-versal Extras, Extra People, Ray Knight Casting, Phoenix Casting, or Casting Collective. These agencies make money through registration fees, commission on bookings, or both.
Reputable agencies will clearly explain their fees upfront, and it's essential to avoid any demanding a large upfront payment or guaranteeing work, as these could be scams. According to Casting Collective, extras can expect to be paid between £150 and £250 a day on average, which is usually worked out according to a union pay scheme, not the agency you use.
The pay is normally made up of a basic day (or night) rate, plus holiday pay and overtime, with higher rates on bank holidays. Supplementary rates apply if you are required to do certain things such as attending a separate costume fitting, bringing several outfit options, having your hair cut, swimming, getting wet, driving, or delivering any dialogue.
To increase your chances of landing extra work, it's essential to create a profile that showcases your physical statistics, skills, and relevant experience. You will need to provide basic details, such as your name, age, address, and a headshot, full-length photo, and sometimes images in business dress, uniforms, or sports kit.
Job inquiries will come via email or text, often using code names to keep productions confidential. The message will outline the role, rough location, call time, and estimated finish time. You need to confirm your availability and may be "pencilled in" or "heavy pencilled in" if shortlisted. If you are not selected, you will be "released" later on; if you are booked, the "call sheet" with exact details will usually arrive the night before.
Being an extra is not glamorous – it often involves long hours, waiting around, and following instructions carefully. You may spend time in costume or makeup, have to stand in the rain, or need to repeat the same scene all day. Do not get starstruck – extras should not approach the main cast or ask for selfies or autographs.
Most productions ban taking photos or videos, and phones may be confiscated on set. Bring something to pass the time, such as a book, as you will often have long periods of downtime.
Background artists are paid for travel, too – how much depends on the distance and time of day. Productions using Equity rates pay from £4 to £20 for travel, depending on mileage, with an extra £9 for calls pre-6am (7am on Sundays or bank holidays).
Food is usually provided on-set. Where it is not, the pay is about £5 to £25 a meal, depending on whether it is breakfast, lunch, or dinner, location, and union rates. You will get paid more if a meal break is delayed, cut short, or missed.
As an extra, you are considered self-employed, so you need to pay your own tax and national insurance. Under HM Revenue and Customs "trading allowance" rules, you can earn up to £1,000 tax-free each year from trading online, self-employment, and various other side hustles. If you earn more than this, you will need to register as self-employed and submit a self-assessment tax return.
The work is perfect for students, freelancers, and retirees who have flexible schedules. It is less suitable for anyone who needs a strict routine, as filming days can be long and change at short notice.
I think it's intriguing how the film and TV industries have created this lucrative side hustle opportunity for individuals to earn some extra cash while still being a part of the creative process. The fact that it doesn't require any acting experience is a definite plus, as it opens up opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds 
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. I mean, sure, you might get paid £150-£250 a day, but it's not all fun and games. You're just background stuff for the real stars! And don't even get me started on the hours - you'll be standing around waiting to be told what to do for like 8 hours straight 
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. And if you're feeling peckish, good luck getting paid a decent price for food - it's usually like £5-£25 a meal, depending on where you are 
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so i think its pretty cool that u can make some extra cash by just chillin in the background of movies and tv shows 
gotta love the fact that u can get paid for travel too 
️£4-20 is def a nice little perk 