What is the salary for kids doing commercials?

Question

What is the salary for kids doing commercials?

Answer 1

Most actors in commercials don't earn a salary, per se. They either receive a flat fee for their role, or - if they are lucky and it is a union job, they can also receive a residual. That's to say, each time the commercial airs, they receive a small fee.

Flat fees and residuals are based upon how long the commercial runs - for example, over a period of several weeks or months, and how many markets it airs. So, a commercial that airs nationally will earn an actor more money than one that airs in just one city or market.

Years ago, I hired a boy who appeared in a bread commercial. That commercial was later used within another commercial, and both commercials ran for several years. The boy never appeared in any other commercials, but his one role paid for his entire education - just from residuals.

Commercial acting is very hard work. It takes a lot of time and it is highly competitive. If you are considering this for your child, be advised to work with a talent agent - they can give you much more advice on the subject.

Good luck.