Obtaining Background (Extra) Work in New York City

An Overview of Extras and Background Casting Agencies in New York City

Getting background or extra work, requires that you be in touch with the casting agencies that book these jobs. What follows is an overview of New York City’s background casting agencies and how to register with them. By being on as many background casting rosters as possible, you maximize your chances of getting paying work as an acting professional. The work isn’t glamorous, but it can pay the bills, and if you’re not yet a SAG member, may provide you with the opportunity to join.

Registering with background or extras agencies can occasionally cost money. As much as I say to never spend money to make money in this business, as 99% of the time that’s the hallmark of a scam. It is nearly standard for background agencies to charge a fee (rarely more than $25) to take a digital image of you that is available to their clients. At some agencies this is optional, but I also recommend you do it, because the image is in color (while your headshots are likely not), and because it allows the casting director to confirm that you truly do look like your headshot (you’d be amazed at how many people don’t).

A word on ettiquette, never call or drop by a casting directors office, unless explicitly told to do so. Any phone numbers I’ve provided below are the numbers they release specifically so people can find out about work from the and/or register with them. Only ever contact casting directors as directed. Addresses are provided for you to mail your headshots only.

So without further ado, here’s your list:

Grant Wilfley Casting
Grant Wilfley casts many television shows (including some of the Law & Orders) and films and books both union and non-union actors. They do not have a formal registration process, nor do they have a fee for registration. They do regularly hold open calls for specific projects they are working on, which are always announced in Backstage. To check their current casting notices, and to get on their email distribution list, you can call their casting hotline number at 212-685-3168