Hiring Actors in London – A Simple Guide for Creatives

So you’ve got a project in the works—a short film, a music video, a promo shoot—and now you need actors in London to bring it to life. Whether you’re working on a tight budget or something more ambitious, London has no shortage of talent. Here’s a no-fuss guide to finding and hiring the right people for the job.

Where to Find Actors in London
There are loads of ways to find great actors in London, depending on what you’re looking for.

Online Casting Platforms
Websites like Mandy, StarNow, and Backstage are packed with actor profiles. You can post your casting call and get responses quickly.

Spotlight (for Pros)
Spotlight is where you’ll find trained, experienced actors—many with agency representation. It’s a little more formal, but great if your project needs top-tier talent.

Social Media & Groups
Facebook groups like London Actors Network or UK Casting Calls are great for reaching out to performers directly. It’s quick and informal, perfect for indie or low-budget shoots.

Hiring Extras and Crowd Actors in London
If you’re not looking for speaking roles, but just need background faces, then you’re after extras or crowd hire.

When to Hire Extras:
Busy street scenes

Club or concert settings

Parties, restaurants, or protests in a scene

Music videos needing a crowd

You can find extras the same way you’d find actors—casting sites, social media, or dedicated crowd hire agencies that send people in bulk for shoots.

Getting Hired Actors for One-Off Gigs

Most hired actors in London are used to short gigs—think one-day shoots, rehearsals, or live events. A few key things to remember:

Always be clear about what you need (dates, times, dress code, lines, etc.)

Even if it’s unpaid or low-pay, be upfront about it

Put it in writing—a basic agreement or email confirmation is enough in most cases

FAQ: Want to Be an Actor in London?

Thinking of stepping into the spotlight yourself? Here are some quick answers.

Do I need to go to drama school?
Not always! Some actors train formally, others learn on the job. Both paths are valid.

Can I act while working a regular job?
Yes! A lot of London actors juggle acting with part-time or freelance work.

How do I get auditions?
Start with platforms like Mandy, StarNow, and Backstage. If you’re ready, try joining Spotlight (you’ll need some experience or training).

What’s the difference between actors and extras?
Actors usually have lines or featured roles. Extras are in the background—they help build the scene, but don’t speak.

Should I get an agent?
If you want access to bigger jobs (TV, film, major commercials), yes. But you can definitely work without one when starting out.

Hiring Actors in London Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

Whether you need a full cast, some extras, or a crowd of people to fill a scene, London is packed with talent. Just be respectful of people’s time, communicate clearly, and be organized. That’s how you build good vibes on set—and get the best out of your hired actors.

Need help writing your casting call? Or wondering how to manage a crowd scene? Hit me up—I’m happy to help!