Hi everyone I am a Canadian actress, and my question is I am pursuing my career as an actress I have been landing lead roles, principle ect… If I did extra or any type of background just to make extra money or for fun would that effect my career, would I be typecast. I would never put it on my resume or IMDB. I still work my night job as security supervisor, but would like to get out of it and do something that is still in the field. I am also working on a voice business as well just not up and running yet, getting there. Anyway that would be great to get your feedback on the extras thing. I hear different stories from other people like go for it or don't do it, it will ruin me. I look at it as everyone has to make a living. I look forward to hearing from all ya.
Amanda. W.
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use background work to make money and contacts if you can. find out who the director/producers are and pitch them your legit stuff. unless you want to make a career out of background/extra work (as many do!)
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I agree! No shame in background work. Get that money! I think the most important thing to remember when doing background work is that you are a professional. Use this time to learn about the set, watch what is going on around you, and avoid at all costs the group of people who will be sitting around complaining about being extras. You'll be surprised how much you can learn.
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Thank you cause I get people that say don't do it. I my making a career as an actor and voice actor too. I work hard I still work my night ft job as security supervisor which is killing me. I thought If I did more background I can learn more yes and network, get great contacts ect. Doing all that I can get out of my security job focus more on my career which is a working actor I will set aside my difference from doing background from my long term career as a working actor. Thanks for your feedback.
Amanda Woodhouse
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The 2 jobs are unrelated and different. As long as you are clearly aware of that in regards to protocol / behavior / expectations at work, you can do fine as BG and still pursue roles. When BG get pushy and try to work their way into something more on a set is when they can lose future opportunity for either.
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I love what Stephen Foster and Lauren Litt posted. Positive!
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thank you!
Go to any actor that has an extensive IMDB from the last 30+ years & see how they've been type cast... In today's world pick the future rolls you want to be known for & that play to your strengths... (A good example is look at Eric Roberts & Julia Roberts IMDB)
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Royce Allen Dudley wrote. " When BG get pushy and try to work their way into something more on a set is when they can lose future opportunity for either." Not to say that isn't true, but I've also observed the opposite on episodic cable shows more than once. Those that were recognized by the 2AD or 2AD's 2nd as having some talent were given a chance, an instant screen test so to speak. One went on to become part of the regular cast and appeared in future seasons.
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Agreed JD... but there is a fine line. When one is known to the AD and the show, it's a much better chance than day 1. My cautionary comments are aimed at newbs. Thanks for the broader pic.
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It's all a roll of the dice.....