One of the best ways to experience the magic of film making is to play an extra or background actor in a major motion picture. But, how many great actors, musicians, and politicians have been background actors before becoming famous? Quite a few and you will be surprised.
Sylvester Stallone
Sylvester Stallone was a movie extra in two movies. He was an extra first in Woody Allen’s 1971 comedy “Bananas” as a thug in the subway. The second movie Stallone was an extra in was called Klute where he played a dancer in a club.
Jeff Goldblum
Jeff Goldblum played a man on the phone actor in a Californian party scene in the 1977 American romantic comedy.
Jackie Chan
As a teenager Jackie Chan played a movie extra in two movies. The first movie was the 1972 “Fist of Fury” and the second was “Enter the Dragon” starring Bruce Lee.
Heath Ledger
In 1992 Heath Ledger was an orphan clown as a movie extra. This was his first movie role ever. Heath Ledger would later become famous for his part in the Batman series.
Bruce Willis
In the popular 1982 film, “The Verdict” Bruce Willis appeared in the last courtroom scene as a courtroom observer. Bruce Willis will later star in the Die Hard Series!
Cuba Gooding Jr
In the hilarious 1988 comedy movie starring Eddie Murphy, “Coming to America”, Cuba Gooding Jr. could be seen as a customer in a barber shop.
Fidel Castro
Before Fidel Castro became a cuban leader he played a movie extra in the 1946 movie “Holiday in Mexico”.
Many argue that extra work is the bottom of the totem pole in terms of respect in the entertainment industry. But, it the opportunities are there for individuals that are excited, motivated, and passionate about their career.
