Long-Term Commitment in Background Acting

For many background actors, typical roles usually last just a few days. However, the new show “The Pitt” has dramatically shifted that expectation by requiring actors to commit for several months. The series, which began casting in July, has scheduled filming from that month through February.

Overview of “The Pitt”

This Max medical drama unfolds over a single, extensive 15-hour shift at the fictional Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Hospital, headlined by Noah Wyle portraying Dr. Michael “Robby” Robinavitch. This unique premise necessitated a consistent presence from background actors throughout the filming period.

Insights from the Cast

Actors Shaun Lagadi and Kylie Judd have shared their experiences from this extended engagement, reflecting on the joys and challenges of their roles.

Thoughts on Extended Roles

SHAUN LAGADI: “I was so excited to hear that, especially at a time when there are a lot of things up in the air, and work hasn’t been too busy. I feel so lucky and blessed because not everyone gets this opportunity.” Lagadi noted the rarity of such a long-term role, adding that even primary cast members are not present every day.

KYLIE JUDD: “Being on set every day, seeing how all the incredible actors work together… it was a dream come true.” Judd emphasized how the camaraderie among the cast and crew enhanced the experience of working throughout the season.

Preparation for Their Roles

Both Lagadi and Judd engaged in comprehensive preparation for their respective characters. Lagadi, who portrays a nurse, has family ties to the medical profession that provided him with a foundational understanding of hospital routines.

LAGADI: “They taught us what we needed to do and how to properly take care of a patient… because of the show, and how real they wanted it to be, they taught us a lot of the basics of being a nurse.”

Judd, who plays a pregnant patient managing anxiety about her health, found the immersive experience of donning a pregnancy suit particularly rewarding. “It was a great extra challenge for me as an actor to experience that every day,” said Judd.

Character Development and Direction

Developing their characters was an evolving process for both actors. Lagadi aimed to depict the intensity and challenges faced by nurses in a bustling emergency room, while Judd focused on the anxiety that accompanies critical situations in the hospital.

JUDD: “The second AD would also give us a lot of direction on what we should do in the scene as well, so that helped.”

Day-to-Day Experiences

Judd highlighted that the fast-paced atmosphere during filming required continuous engagement. “I had doctors coming up to me [during shoots], having conversations and checking on my IV,” she remarked, emphasizing the dynamic interactions built into each scene.

Lagadi noted the importance of maintaining consistency: “We had the same scrubs we’ve been wearing and the same props… to reflect that it’s only one day in the storyline, not seven months.”

Financial Considerations

LAGADI: “The compensation is basically based on the whole seven months of us being there… I’m feeling lucky that I’m able to get paid for a job at a time when there’s not a lot of work out there.”

JUDD: “The pay didn’t change – [it was to SAG-AFTRA scale].” Despite the long duration of their work, the rates remained consistent.

Lessons Learned

Both actors have gained invaluable insights from their time on set. Judd reflected on the dedication of the principal cast, remarking on the effort that goes into great acting, particularly drawing inspiration from Wyle’s example.

LAGADI: He expressed newfound respect for nurses, acknowledging the emotional and physical challenges they face daily, stating, “It’s something I don’t think I could ever do in real life, but I definitely learned a lot about just being a nurse.”