For retirees looking to supplement their income, find social engagement or pursue a lifelong dream, Hollywood has an unexpected opportunity: working as a background actor — also known as an extra.
While most people associate acting with aspiring stars, thousands of TV shows, movies, and commercials rely on a robust cast of background performers to fill scenes with realistic crowds. For many retirees, it's become a flexible side hustle that delivers extra income and a behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment industry.
SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox.
No Acting Experience Required to Work as an Extra
Photo by Vlatko Gasparic on Getty Images
One of the biggest advantages of background acting for retirees is that professional experience is rarely required. Casting companies seek people of all ages, appearances and backgrounds to populate realistic scenes in hospitals, restaurants, airports, neighborhoods and offices.
Productions frequently need older adults to portray grandparents, wedding guests, diners, golf club members, and community residents across TV, film, and commercial work. Getting started typically means registering with casting agencies like Central Casting — which has openings in New York, New Jersey, Georgia, and Louisiana — or Backstage. After submitting photos and measurements, you can begin responding to casting notices that fit your schedule.
Why Retirees Are Choosing Background Acting
For many retirees, the biggest draw isn't the paycheck — it's the experience. Background acting offers a chance to meet new people, break up daily routines and spend time on professional sets to mingle with stars. The flexible nature of the work lets retirees pick assignments based on their own availability, making it one of the more appealing part-time jobs for retirees with unpredictable schedules.
Photo by baona on Getty Images
Pay varies by production and union status, but background performers are typically compensated for their time on set. Some productions offer additional pay for long filming days and special wardrobe requirements — all without requiring certifications, training or a long-term commitment. And if you go the extra mile as an extra, you could bump up from background "atmosphere" roles into a featured extra position with non-speaking actions or a line of dialogue in the scene.
Non-union background actors typically earn $150-$200 for an 8-hour day on film/TV productions, while union (SAG-AFTRA) rates start around $178/day. Over time, wardrobe fees and other bumps can push daily pay higher.
What to Know Before You Start
Like any retirement side hustle, background work has trade-offs. Filming days can be long, often requiring performers to wait between scenes while crews set up shots. Call times may be early, and schedules can change with little notice. Fortunately, resources exist to help newcomers prepare. Central Casting offers tips for your first day on set, and Backstage publishes updated casting news to help you find well-known projects to join.
Related: Need a retirement hobby? Make sure it works with your budget and mental health.
For retirees seeking a creative, social, and flexible way to earn extra income, background acting may offer more than just a paycheck — it could be a memorable new chapter.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
Hence then, the article about retirees are making extra money in hollywood and you d never guess how little experience it takes was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Retirees Are Making Extra Money in Hollywood — and You'd Never Guess How Little Experience It Takes )
Also on site :
- Texas woman injured by McDonald’s Sausage McMuffin ‘wholly unfit for human consumption’: suit
- ‘House of Guinness’ Renewed for Season 2 by Netflix (EXCLUSIVE)
- Saudi Arabia plans freight rail corridor