I noticed in Brian's commercial resume, for a car commercial, that sometimes he lists his participation as "Car Buyer (featured)" or "Customer (principal)." Please explain the difference. Thanks.

1st Remember Our industry is/has undergone Major Changes (mostly technology related) and almost nothing is the same twice.



The Historically Correct reply is that a Principal role is a Speaking part, a Featured part is a significant part that you are in focus, on camera advancing the scene but not speaking (The waitress caring a tray full of food that slips - dumping everything in the Principals Lap) but not the out of focus Extras sitting at the Next Table.

Today it is more your "Billing" or "Contracted" Part. While is is more Likely to happen in "Starring" positions ( Co-Star, guest Star, Special Guest Star, Special Appearance By ETC) Agents and Managers that could not get More Money for their talent came back with "Titles" instead. Then it was the Name Position Game " I got you Credited Before the Show Name", 1st After the Show Name" Your Name is Last with a SPECIAL THANK YOU"

You are Contracted for that "Title" or that Credit Position (Billing) and you are that part.



I Have some Speaking roles in TV (Car) Commercials but I also have Principal roles because the paperwork said I was a Principal in that production.

As far as I can Remember all the Featured roles - I am Non-Speaking, the only person or My wife and I the only People in Focus, On Camera for the entire set shot. I/We walk around the car, running our hand over the Hood or Trunk "Feeling the Quality" Open the door being startled by the Beautiful Interior, sitting down, Sometimes starting the car, Sometimes Driving away. And yes there are Extras Crossing in Front or behind us and milling about the dealership.

And the paperwork Called us Featured.



Best Brian