A bit player is an actor who takes on small roles in a production. They may have more focus and financial compensation than extras. Some actors start as bit players and gain experience before moving on to bigger roles, while others may never rise above this level. In other contexts, the term can refer to individuals or entities with little power or influence in a situation.
The idiom “bit player” is used to describe an actor who takes on small or unimportant roles in a comedy, film, or television show. The use of the word bit, which has connotations of something very small, modifies the word player, a term sometimes used to describe stage actors. A child actor typically delivers the lines in the production, unlike actors or extras. The term can also be used to describe an individual who has little influence or prominence in a particular community, business, or situation.
While some acting scripts specify that a play or show has only one or two characters, many productions rely on numerous characters to tell a complete and entertaining story. When casting the show, the director will want to match the various roles to the talents and personal characteristics of the auditioning actors. A small actor may have only a very small presence and only a few lines in a production, but his role may be necessary to his integrity. There is often more focus on the role of a small actor than that of extras or extras, who may simply act as part of a crowd or group of people. The bit player may also receive more in the way of financial compensation than extras or extras.
Some actors begin their careers as child actors before taking on more significant supporting or even leading roles. An actor can gain invaluable experience working in these small parts and can make important connections within the industry that he can use to further his career. In some cases, however, an actor may never rise above his job as a small actor and may never be cast in a substantial part. Such actors may decide to work only part-time and take a job in another field so that they can support themselves and their families with a more regular and reliable source of income.
When describing ongoing scenarios, situations, or activities, the media or other commentators may portray the individuals or entities involved as small players if they are not perceived to have a significant amount of political or other power. These individuals or entities are however recognized as having a role in the story or situation. Often, a so-called bit player in a news story is distantly connected to one or more of its more involved or noteworthy participants.
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