The entertainment industry is full of actors, singers, and other creative professionals who make their living by performing in films, television shows, and other media. While some actors can command large salaries, there is a minimum wage that must be paid to any actor who is hired to work on a production. In this article, we’ll take a look at the lowest actor salary and the various factors that can influence it.
What is the SAG-AFTRA Theatrical Contract?
The Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is the labor union that represents actors and other performing artists in the United States. If a film or television show is produced under the SAG-AFTRA theatrical contract, actors are guaranteed certain wages and benefits.
Under the SAG-AFTRA theatrical contract, the minimum daily rate for a principal actor is currently $1,056 per day. This rate applies to films with a budget of at least $2 million. For a film with a budget of less than $2 million, the minimum daily rate is $827 per day.
What is the Minimum Day Rate for Actors?
The minimum daily rate for a principal actor is determined based on the budget of the film. For films with a budget of at least $2 million, the minimum daily rate is currently $1,056 per day. For films with a budget of less than $2 million, the minimum daily rate is $827 per day.
In addition, the SAG-AFTRA theatrical contract requires that if a principal actor works at least five days on a film, they must be paid the weekly rate of $3,664. This rate applies to films with a budget of at least $2 million. For films with a budget of less than $2 million, the weekly rate is $2,853.
How Much Do Background Actors and Stand-Ins Make?
Background actors and stand-ins are not covered under the SAG-AFTRA theatrical contract, but they are still entitled to certain wages. Background actors are typically paid a daily rate of $182 per day, while stand-ins are paid a daily rate of $214 per day.
In some cases, background actors and stand-ins may be entitled to additional wages. For example, if a background actor or stand-in is asked to work more than eight hours in a single day, they may be entitled to overtime pay. Additionally, background actors and stand-ins may be entitled to additional pay if they are asked to perform stunts or other specialized tasks.
Conclusion
The lowest actor salary is determined by a variety of factors, including the budget of the film or television show, the type of role the actor is playing, and whether they are working under the SAG-AFTRA theatrical contract. Generally speaking, the minimum daily rate for a principal actor is $1,056 per day for films with a budget of at least $2 million, and $827 per day for films with a budget of less than $2 million. Background actors and stand-ins are typically paid a daily rate of $182 and $214 per day, respectively. In some cases, background actors and stand-ins may be entitled to additional wages.
