How to Be a Paid Seat Filler For Award Shows and Audiences

Seat Filler Jobs are Available

Did you know seat filler jobs are available in Los Angeles, Hollywood, Atlanta and even New York City? Needing an active audience to show the viewing audience at home, people are paid to dress up (or down, depending on the job) and be part of the Audience. This job could take you to places you might have never dreamed of. Shows like the MTV Movie Awards, the Oscars, the People’s Choice Awards and even America’s Funniest Home Videos need paid audience members like seat fillers so the crowds look good for TV.

Get Paid to Watch an Award Show

Most people don’t realize that they are watching people getting paid to have fun. That’s right, for the most part, a job as a seat filler it to be in an audience and have a great time. This could be as easy as clapping or laughing at jokes. Or deciding to cheer on a contestant who is accomplishing a task for the first time. It’s really a job about responding in the moment. And that’s why beginner actors and Los Angeles locals love to be paid to be part of the show.

Typically, people in the audience are paid by the hour, with a minimum requirement of number of hours, even if they aren’t there the entire time. Also, and this is where seat fillers make a lot of cash, when production runs late, any time after the set time offered is time and a half, typically paid in 15 minute increments. Ultimately, most audience members on the clock make more money on overtime than the actual job time.

Payment varies from project to project, but do expect some delays on set and it could work in your favor. I remember once taping of America’s Funniest Home Videos that I went to as a seat filler that was only going to be 2 hours. Apparently it was an off day and after camera issues and other problems, the audience ended up waiting around six hours before the taping and then there were issues during the actual show taping. We ended up getting paid for 12 hours and it was more than all the other work I did for the entire week.

Easy to Watch TV Shows in Live Audience? Yes

Seat Filler Jobs
Seat Filler Jobs

Getting a job as an audience seat filler in Los Angeles is not difficult, but it does require some effort and persistence. You will need a professional picture of yourself to show the company what you look like. So before you start applying, have a few shots ready and keep in mind, selfies are discouraged when applying.

Ready to be a Seat Filler? Here are some steps you can follow to get started:

1. Research the Companies that Hire Audience Seat Fillers. There are several companies in Los Angeles that specialize in hiring audience seat fillers. Do some research to find out which ones are the most reputable and reliable. Also check out our list of the top five seat filler companies in the Los Angeles metro area.

2. Apply to Become a Seat Filler. Once you have identified the companies that hire audience seat fillers, visit their websites and fill out their online application forms. These forms typically ask for basic information such as your name, contact information, and availability. Also, you will need to give them current, preferably smiling photos of your face.

3. Be Flexible with Your Availability. As an audience seat filler, you will be required to be available for events at short notice. Make sure you are flexible with your availability and can be on-call to attend events at any time.

4. Confirm Your Attendance. Once you are asked to be part of a show, confirm immediately. Seat fillers are first come, first served. Your job could go to someone else if you don’t act fast. This means you need to keep an eye on your email and text messages and reply immediately for opportunities.

5. Dress Appropriately. It’s important to dress appropriately for the event you are attending. For example, if you are attending a formal awards show, you should dress in formal attire. If you are attending a daytime talk show, you can dress more casually. Remember the seat filler company will tell you how to dress and you should follow it precisely. If you don’t follow directions, you could be fired before you’re hired.

6. Be Professional. As an audience seat filler, you are representing the company that hired you. It’s important to be professional at all times, and to behave appropriately in front of the cameras and other attendees. You are never to tell ticket holders (who came for free) that you are being paid. 

7. Have Fun You Are on Set. Finally, remember to have fun! Being an audience seat filler can be a fun and exciting job. Enjoy the experience, meet new people, and soak up the atmosphere of the event you are attending. Who knows, you might meet a celebrity or two!

In Conclusion

Seat filler jobs might be something that you do as a side hustle or maybe it’s your way of entertainment. It’s a great way to make money while being in the Los Angeles area. And it’s a lot of fun to see how the entertainment world works! See you in the audience!

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