How to Work as an Extra in BBC Series: A Complete Guide

The BBC boasts some of the most well-known television shows in the world, from long-standing dramas to crime dramas and historical dramas. Some of these programs require background actors, or extras, to fill out the sets. If you have ever dreamed of working with a BBC show—albeit in the background—an extra might be the ticket.

But how do I become a BBC extra? What do I need to know when I apply? How much money does it cost? This guide answers all of your questions and provides step-by-step guidance so that you can get a job.

Why be an Extra?

Being an extra is a great way to get into the entertainment industry without having any prior acting experience. Extras do not have lines, but they are an essential part of what makes the scenes real. From passing by the leads on a busy street scene to being in a diner, to cheering at a football game, background actors create the world of a TV show.

Other benefits are:

Experience on Set: Witness how a professional production is done.

Networking: Get to meet professionals in the industry, including directors, actors, and crew.

Extra Income: Earn money while being part of a large BBC production.

Fun and Excitement: The thrill of seeing yourself on TV!

Iconic BBC Series That Use Extras

Many BBC shows frequently hire extras to bring realism to their settings. Some of the most well-known ones are:

Doctor Who – This long-running science fiction series consistently advertises for extras to appear on alien worlds, futuristic cityscapes, and period flashbacks.

Peaky Blinders – A historical drama requesting extras to feature in 1920s street scenes, pub sessions, and gangland confrontations.

EastEnders – One of the longest-running soaps on British television, it regularly needs extras to be part of market scenes, The Queen Vic regulars, and supporting actors on Albert Square.

Call the Midwife – This 1950s and 60s period drama uses extras for London street scenes, hospitals, and family homes.

Line of Duty – A gripping crime drama, often featuring police officers, reporters, and people passing by in background shots.

These are just two examples, but almost every BBC drama or soap will use background actors somewhere along the way.

How to Apply to Be an Extra in BBC Shows

1. Sign up with a Casting Agency

The BBC do not hire extras directly. They utilize casting agencies who take care of extras to work on various productions. Some of the most sought-after agencies are:

Mad Dog 2020 Casting – Provides extras for film and television, including BBC productions.

Uni-versal Extras – Provides extras for UK productions.

The Casting Collective – Handles background work for TV dramas, soaps, and feature films.

To sign up, visit the agency’s site and fill out your information. You’ll need to give:

A fresh head shot (a recent photo of your face, with no heavy filters or sunglasses).

A short summary of what you look like (height, weight, hair colour, etc.).

A CV if you have any previous experience (if relevant). You can make a professional-looking CV using a free online cv maker free tool if you need to.

2. Keep Your Profile Up-to-Date

Once you are registered, make sure to update your profile. If you change your hair, get a beard, or gain/lose weight, update your photos to match your new appearance. Some looks are required for some jobs, so accuracy is important.

3. Get Job Applications and Attend Castings

When casting agencies have proper roles, they will approach you personally or post on the internet. Extras are picked from their profile in some cases, and in others, you will need to undergo a casting session.

Preparation for Your Extra Role

Once you have been selected for a role, you must prepare for work. Do the following:

1. Carefully follow instructions

Production crew will provide you with clear guidance on when and where to report, what to wear, and what to bring. Always study these carefully.

2. Dress Accordingly

Some productions provide costumes, but some may ask you to bring your own clothes—especially if it’s a modern-day scene. If you’re asked to bring your own, follow the wardrobe instructions carefully.

3. Be Professional and Prompt

TV productions run on tight schedules, so being late or unprepared can cause delays. Arrive on time and be ready to follow directions.

4. Expect Long Hours

Filming days can be long, often lasting 10–12 hours. Be prepared to wait between takes, and bring something to keep yourself entertained, such as a book or headphones.

5. Don’t Approach the Main Actors

It’s exciting to be on set with famous actors, but extras are expected to remain professional. Avoid disturbing the main cast unless they initiate conversation.

How Much Do BBC Extras Get Paid?

Extras in BBC productions are usually paid according to industry-standard rates. The typical payments include:

Basic Daily Rate – Around £93.90 per day for a full day’s work.

Overtime Pay – If filming crosses over standard time, extras will receive approximately £14.10 for an extra hour.

Night Shoots – Work that’s done at nighttime earns a bit more, starting from £101.80 for a shift.

Special Skills Pay – If an extra is asked to do something (e.g., dancing, swimming, riding horses), they may receive pay extra.

Wardrobe Allowance – If you provide your own costume, you may get paid extra.

Some shoots pay more, especially if there are certain conditions involved (e.g., filming in extreme weather, wearing prosthetics, or a featured background part).

Where Do You Apply to Be a BBC Extra?

To have the best opportunity of being cast, sign up to a number of casting agencies and keep looking for work. Some extra tips:

Sign up to casting agencies on social media, as they often tweet out last-minute extras calls.

Keep your phone and email notifications on, as casting calls might have to be answered immediately.

Join Facebook groups where extras share casting notices and job leads.

Final Thoughts

Working as an extra on a BBC production is a great chance to gain some experience on a working set, earn some extra money, and possibly spot yourself on TV. Even though it’s not experience acting, it is experience working as a professional with patience, taking direction, and being professional.

By registering with casting agencies, having your details up to date, and seeking out suitable roles, you increase your odds of gaining a role in a big BBC production. Whether it’s walking Victorian London streets in Peaky Blinders or drinking coffee in Queen Vic of EastEnders, being a BBC extra is an exhilarating and fulfilling experience.