Do Actors Get Free Food On Set? Here’s What We Know…

By Steve Dez •  Updated: 01/07/23 •  4 min read

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Do Actors Get Free Food On Set? Here's What We Know...

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to work on a movie or TV set?

Do actors get free food?

It’s the million-dollar question.

In this article, we’ll answer that and much more as we explore the world of being an actor on set.

We’ll look at how meals are provided and if they’re really free for all involved.

So keep reading to learn everything there is to know about food on film sets!

 do actors get free food on set

  Is Free Food Provided For Actors On Set?

The answer is yes!

Most productions provide some sort of catering service for their cast and crew during production.

This includes snacks throughout the day, as well as a more substantial meal at lunchtime.

However, depending on the budget of a particular project, these meals can range from basic sandwiches to fully catered multi-course feasts with all kinds of delicious dishes.

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What Types Of Meals Are Commonly Served On Movie Sets?

When it comes to feeding large groups like those found on a movie set, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

That said, popular options include buffet style spreads featuring salads and sides like coleslaw or potato wedges alongside main courses such as burgers or curries.

Alternatively lighter fare such as wraps might be provided instead if shooting times require quicker turnaround periods between takes.

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How Much Does Catering Cost On A Movie Set?

Costs vary drastically from one project to another but generally speaking most mid/low budget productions will have budgets ranging between $15-$20 per head per day for catering purposes only (which excludes drinks).

High end movies obviously cost much more but this is an average figure that applies in most instances.

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Who Pays For The Meals Served On Set?

In general terms productions typically pay out of pocket for food expenses although in certain cases unions may negotiate different agreements requiring studios/networks etc…to cover costs associated with providing meals to cast & crew members while filming is taking place over extended period(s) of time (eg: multiple days).

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Is It Possible To Bring Your Own Food Onto The Set Instead Of Eating Catered Meals?

Most projects do not allow outside food onto their sets due to health & safety regulations so unless you have permission from producers prior then it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to bring your own meals in order avoid eating anything catered by production themselves which could cause hygiene issues down the line if unchecked properly beforehand .

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Do All Cast & Crew Members Get Access To Free Food Whilst Filming Or Are There Restrictions In Place ?

Unfortunately not everyone involved in making movies has access to free food whilst working; restrictions are placed based upon union guidelines regarding who should receive complimentary meals during shoots which usually means actors tend take priority above other departments (example : directors , writers etc…) however exceptions can always be made depending upon specific circumstances surrounding each individual case so it pays off asking ahead just incase !

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Before you go…

Now you know do actors get free food on set , but that’s only the beginning of your acting journey. If you found this post useful there’s more to learn to get you to the next step of your acting career. If you read our next articles you’ll be a step further than most actors.

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Steve Dez

I am the founder of Dezperate Actor® and I have been in the acting and entertainment industry since 2011. Since then, my mission is to make acting and breaking into Hollywood easy for everyone. And each year, I continue to help more people with acting tips, resources, coaching and online courses.

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