Movie and TV Extra work in Los Angeles?

Question

I am wondering the best way to become a paid Extra in TV or Movies in Los Angeles, CA. I was on the Metro one day and overheard 2 people talking about how they get called almost everyday for work as an Extra on different shows. Is there a particular agency that's good for getting people this kind of work? Is there anyone who has experience with this?

Answer 1

Classified ads in LA papers are filled with extra work. I actually did a crowd scene once (this is going to be the easiest work to get). Look on craigslist and in LA weekly. You may also want to try trade papers like Variety.

If you looking to be a professional extra (they do exist), you will need to join SAG. But you probably do not need an agent but once you do some extra work, you will find out what agencies deal with extras and who you should call for future work.

Answer 2

If you want to be an extra, the only place you really need to deal with is Central Casting. They have union and non-union casting, though the union work is much harder to get.

Agencies do not deal with extras. You can sign up with what is called a call-in-service. You pay them to call in and try to get you extra gigs, but no real agent bothers with extra work. As for union vs. non-union, you can not just join the union, you have to be allowed in based on having worked union jobs (there are also some webseries loopholes), and if they invite you, it will cost you over two thousand.

Answer 3

check out the message boards on IMDB, they have a section where they look for actors/extras, etc. You may also just call the studios and ask where they post them.

Answer 4

take part in some close by television spots for cable...get a portfolio...does no longer harm to connect SAG the two (show actors guild) because of the fact all action picture and tv actors must be a member of SAG

Answer 5

Check the "Direct Cast" section at
http://www.lacasting.com/la_home.asp