What does Background Actor Agreement mean?
Background Actor Agreement is the SAG-AFTRA contract that covers background performers, also known as extras, in film, television, and commercials. This agreement ensures that background actors receive fair pay, meal breaks, and other protections while working on set. Background actors play an essential role in creating realistic environments and scenes, and this agreement protects their rights and working conditions, even if their roles are non-speaking.
Key Points of the Background Actor Agreement:
- Minimum Pay Rates: Background actors are guaranteed minimum wages for their work, depending on the type of production and its location.
- Meal Breaks and Rest Periods: The agreement ensures that background actors receive proper breaks and are compensated if production delays meal times.
- Health and Safety Protections: Background actors are entitled to the same health and safety protections as principal actors, including safe working conditions on set.
Negotiation Tips:
- Overtime Pay: Background actors can negotiate for higher pay if the production expects them to work long hours, particularly if it runs into overtime.
- Upgrades to Speaking Roles: While typically non-speaking, background actors can negotiate for additional pay if they are upgraded to speaking parts during filming.
- Wardrobe Allowances: If background actors are required to provide their own costumes or specific attire, they can negotiate for wardrobe stipends or allowances.
Example:A background actor worked on a large-scale film production and received overtime pay when filming exceeded 12 hours, as outlined in the Background Actor Agreement.
Example: An extra on a TV set was upgraded to a speaking role during production and received an additional payment in line with the SAG-AFTRA agreement.
Did You Know?
Background actors are entitled to overtime pay and meal breaks, just like principal actors, ensuring fair treatment on set!
Learn More:
For more detailed information, visit the official SAG-AFTRA Background Actor Agreement page.
