Extra (drama)
In drama, an extra is a performer in a film or TV show who has no role or purpose other than to appear in the background (for example, in an audience or busy street scene). Extras often require little to no acting experience, are hired en masse with little formality, and usually paid at low rates. War films and epic films often employ extras in large numbers: some movies have featured hundreds or even thousands of paid extras.
The silent film The Extra Girl (1923) portrays a small-town girl who comes to Hollywood and becomes an extra in her attempt to achieve stardom.
Before becoming household names, Ben Affleck and Matt Damon served as extras during the Fenway Park scenes in Field of Dreams.