New Jersey’s film and television industry has been booming, offering a wealth of opportunities for both aspiring and seasoned background actors—commonly known as extras. From bustling city streets to small-town sets, the Garden State provides a dynamic environment for those looking to start their acting careers or gain valuable on-set experience. Here’s everything you need to know to get started, land roles, and navigate this exciting industry.
Understanding Background Acting
Background actors are the unsung heroes of film and TV, helping bring scenes to life without taking the spotlight. Whether it’s a crowded café, a courtroom full of spectators, or a busy hospital hallway, extras create a believable world around the lead performers. Directors rely on their consistency, punctuality, and ability to follow precise instructions to ensure scenes are filmed seamlessly.
While background actors typically do not have speaking lines, there is always the potential to be upgraded to a featured or principal role, which can increase pay and open doors to SAG-AFTRA membership.
Union vs. Non-Union Work
New Jersey productions hire both union and non-union extras.
- Union jobs (SAG-AFTRA): These gigs follow strict pay, safety, and upgrade rules, ensuring extras are fairly compensated. Standard day rates for union background work in 2025 include approximately $189 for general background, $199–200 for special abilities, and $262 for stand-ins or photo doubles.
- Non-union work: Often more accessible for beginners, non-union projects pay rates that vary widely, typically ranging from $165–185 for an 8–10 hour day.
Whether union or non-union, punctuality, reliability, and professionalism are critical to building a strong reputation on set.
Where to Find Background Acting Opportunities in New Jersey
- Casting Agencies
Reputable casting agencies are the primary source for extras work in the state:- Grant Wilfley Casting: Known for films like A Complete Unknown and Deliver Me From Nowhere, this agency regularly hires background actors and stand-ins for both New Jersey and New York productions.
- Backstage: A go-to online platform for discovering a wide variety of background roles. Users can create a profile, upload photos, and submit directly to casting calls.
- Casting Networks & Central Casting: Both platforms frequently post New Jersey background work and offer online registration for upcoming productions.
- Industry Resources & Networks
- New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission: Lists casting calls, productions filming in the state, and job postings for background actors.
- Facebook Groups: Communities like “NJ & PA Casting Notices” and “NJ NY Film & TV Essential Extras” are invaluable for networking and staying informed on new projects.
- Networking Events: Meeting other actors and industry professionals can lead to referrals and insider knowledge about upcoming roles.
- Local Media Outlets
Local news stations, newspapers, and online bulletins often report when productions are filming nearby, giving actors a head start on casting calls.
What You Need to Succeed
- Photos: Clear, natural-light photos are sufficient—professional headshots are not required.
- Wardrobe: Bring multiple outfits suitable for different scenarios: casual, business, upscale, and formal. Productions may also request period or themed attire.
- Resume & Details: Include your height, weight, contact info, and any special skills (languages, sports, instruments). Optional but helpful.
- Flexibility & Reliability: Shooting schedules can be long and unpredictable. Consistency and professionalism go a long way.
Recent Opportunities in New Jersey
Several high-profile projects are currently casting background actors in the Garden State:
- ‘Lazarus’ – Stand-in roles and background work across NJ and NY, August–October 2025. Stand-in rate: $262/8 hours.
- MGM+ Series ‘American Classic’ – Ongoing background and featured roles throughout summer filming in New Jersey.
- A24 Horror Series ‘Mama’s Boy’ – Casting young adults (18+) for background and specialty roles June–October 2025.
- Feature Film ‘Drifter’ – Union extras needed as live event attendees, shooting August 23 in Englishtown, NJ.
Tips for Long-Term Success
- Show Up Prepared: Always arrive on time with headshots, wardrobe options, and a positive attitude.
- Follow Directions: Directors and production assistants will guide your actions on set—precision is key.
- Be Professional: Treat every day on set like an audition. Your reputation matters.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check casting platforms, social media, and local resources for the latest calls.
Why Background Acting Matters
Starting as a background actor offers invaluable insight into how film and television sets operate, helps you develop on-camera comfort, and can lead to more significant opportunities in the industry. Many well-known actors began their careers as extras, learning the ropes, observing seasoned professionals, and building connections that later propelled them to lead roles.
For actors looking to dive deeper into New Jersey’s growing entertainment industry, discover more resources and casting tips at Explore New Jersey’s Film & TV guide.
