Supporting artist
Also called sa, supporting artiste, extra, background artist, background artiste, background actor
A supporting artist is a performer cast to fill the background of a film or TV scene, such as a crowd member, usually without lines.
Extra is the older, everyday word for the same job. A walk-on is a step up, with a little more to do.
In use
I'm booked as a supporting artist on a period drama next Tuesday.
UK and US usage
In the UK, the usual terms are supporting artist (SA) or background artiste, and extra is also heard. In the US, the usual term is background actor, and extra is also used.
Last updated 4 Oct 2026
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