Frequently asked questions

Background performers in Toronto are generally booked through a background talent agency. To be considered by Toronto Film Extras, complete the online application form on this website and upload two to four recent photos of yourself along with your height, chest, waist and hip measurements, your name and the best telephone number to reach you on. TFX reviews submissions against its current roster and production needs, and contacts selected applicants with next steps.

Use the application form on this website. Upload 2–4 recent photos and any supporting documents, and include your height, chest, waist and hip measurements, your name and your best contact telephone number.

No. TFX asks for two to four recent photos of yourself and states clearly that they do not have to be professional photos.

TFX works with talent of all ages, however interested persons under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian reach out to the agency.

Yes. As of July 1, 2014 every background performer in Ontario must complete the Ontario Health and Safety course to receive their Worker Certificate. The course takes approximately 45 minutes. Print two copies of the certificate: provide one to TFX and bring one to every set. If you do not have your certificate you will not be able to work.

BG4Hire is a separate third-party online casting database and search tool that casting directors and agencies use. It is not Toronto Film Extras. An active BG4Hire account is essential in order to work with TFX. BG4Hire charges its own annual membership fee of $45, paid to BG4Hire and not to TFX. Sign up at bg4hire.com and select Toronto Film Extras as your agent.

TFX charges Non-Union talent a yearly, non-refundable membership fee of $100 plus HST ($113), due at registration and renewable on your membership anniversary date. Union performers do not pay a membership fee. Performers also pay commission on work they do, plus 13% HST on the commission. Cancellation, no-show and late fees may also apply.

Commission is a percentage of what you are paid for a booking, plus 13% HST on that commission. Non-Union and AABP performers pay 10% for regular background work, 15% for commercials, upgrades, green permittee vouchers and music videos, and 20% for print. ACTRA Apprentice members pay 15% for regular background, commercials, upgrades and music videos, and 20% for print. Full ACTRA members pay 10% for regular background, 15% for commercials, upgrades and music videos, and 20% for print. Commission includes but is not limited to payments received for COVID tests, mileage, travel, wardrobe and equipment, cars and pets.

No. Union performers do not pay a TFX membership fee. Commission still applies to work performed.

Commission payments can be made by Interac e-transfer to accounting@torontofilmextras.com. In the notes/comments box write your full name, the production title and the date you are sending the commission for. If prompted for a password, use “tfx” or “tfxtfx”. Always email images of the Voucher and the Time Report Summary to accounting@torontofilmextras.com.

No. Toronto Film Extras does not issue T4A forms. Background performers work as independent contractors and are hired and paid by the production companies. Sometimes a production company may issue a T4A for a performer, usually by the end of February; performers may or may not receive one. If TFX receives a T4A for you at the office, you will be emailed.

Casting directors and productions can contact Ramin Emad, CEO/Agent, at ramin@torontofilmextras.com or (647) 280 1924, or Cait O'Connor, Agent, at cait@torontofilmextras.com or (647) 960 6848. General inquiries go to info@torontofilmextras.com or (416) 519 6848.