Central Casting
Largest background casting agency in the US, providing extras and background actors for major film and TV productions. Operates offices in Los Angeles, New York, and Georgia.
Rate Range
$150–$400/day
Source: SAG-AFTRA Background Actor rates 2024; Reddit r/acting discussions
Production Details
Typical hours/day
8-14h
Known For
Industry's largest background casting operation since 1926
Work on major studio productions (Marvel, Netflix, HBO)
Consistent volume of available bookings
Watch Out
Background rates are at SAG-AFTRA minimums per published rate sheets
Long wait times on set are common per extensive r/acting discussions
Registration process can be competitive per actor reports
Contract Tips
Understand the difference between union and non-union background rates
Track your vouchers if working toward SAG-AFTRA eligibility
Know your bump rights — special skills, wardrobe, and car usage increase pay
What Actors Say
Per extensive r/acting discussions (2023-2025), Central Casting is widely regarded as the standard entry point for background work in LA, NY, and Atlanta. Reddit users describe reliable payment and professional operations, though the work itself involves significant downtime. Many actors use Central Casting to earn SAG-AFTRA vouchers.
Early signal (2 reports) — low sample confidence
StageBlind Editorial — based on public reporting and industry data