SAG-AFTRA contract category for actors with five or fewer lines of scripted dialogue in a single episode or film – represents a specific pay scale between background performers and day players, with its own union rates and working conditions.
What is Under Five?
Under Five (U5) is a contract category for actors with five or fewer lines of dialogue. This category falls between Background actors and Day Players, with specific union rates and working conditions.
Basic Principle
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | 5 or fewer lines |
| Category | SAG-AFTRA Contract |
| Position | Between BG and Day Player |
| Rate | Specific rate |
Line Counting
| Counts as a Line | Does Not Count |
|---|---|
| Spoken Dialogue | Reactions |
| Questions | Sighs/Noises |
| Answers | Background murmurs |
| Any Statement | Repetitions |
Category Comparison
| Category | Dialogue | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Background | None | Lowest |
| Under Five | 1-5 Lines | Medium |
| Day Player | 6+ Lines | Higher |
| Series Regular | Lead Role | Highest |
SAG-AFTRA Rates
| Contract Type | Rate (Example) |
|---|---|
| U5 TV | Day Rate |
| U5 Film | Day Rate |
| Residuals | Limited |
| Upgrades | Possible |
Upgrade Situation
| Situation | Consequence |
|---|---|
| 6th Line | Day Player |
| More Focus | Featured |
| Additional Days | Adjustment |
| Negotiation | Possible |
Typical Roles
| Role | Example |
|---|---|
| Service | Waiter, Cashier |
| Professional | Doctor giving diagnosis |
| Reaction | Witness to a scene |
| Functionary | Bouncer, Receptionist |
Working Rights
| Right | Description |
|---|---|
| Break Times | Unionized |
| Overtime | Regulated |
| Catering | Access |
| Wardrobe | If needed |
On-Set Treatment
| Aspect | Standard |
|---|---|
| Holding | Often with Background |
| Call Time | Specific |
| Dressing Room | Not guaranteed |
| Rehearsal | Mostly yes |
Career Significance
| Aspect | Value |
|---|---|
| Credits | Count |
| Reel | Material |
| Experience | On-set learning |
| Networking | Contacts |
Booking
| Process | Flow |
|---|---|
| Casting | Audition/Self-tape |
| Avail | Availability request |
| Booking | Confirmation |
| Contract | U5 Contract |
Preparation
| Step | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Text | Memorize perfectly |
| Character | Develop backstory |
| Wardrobe | Bring options |
| Attitude | Professional |
Set Behavior
| Rule | Reason |
|---|---|
| Punctual | Respect |
| Prepared | Professional |
| Flexible | Changes possible |
| Quiet | During filming |
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Overacting | Stay natural |
| Staring | Not at lead actors |
| Blocking | Camera awareness |
| Ad-libbing | Only if allowed |
Upgrade Opportunities
| Situation | Chance |
|---|---|
| Additional Lines | During filming |
| Improvisation | Director's decision |
| Callback | For another role |
| Relationship | With Casting Director |
Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Professionalism | Always |
| Preparation | Expected |
| Positive Attitude | Is noticed |
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