Translation guide
A character in a story, film, game, etc. who is not a main focus; often appears in the background or has a minor role.
A character with a small role, not central to the plot.
A person appearing in the background of a scene, often without lines.
A character so minor they are not given a name or development.
Literally 'nameless character'. Used when a character has no name or is treated as insignificant.
名無しのキャラが突然殺された。
A nameless character was suddenly killed.
脇役 is a supporting role that may still have some importance, while 端役 is a very minor role with little to no impact on the story.
Avoid directly translating 'background character' as 背景のキャラクター. While understandable, it sounds unnatural. Use the terms above instead.
Literally 'side role'. The most common term for a supporting or minor character in a story, play, or film.
彼はいつも脇役ばかり演じている。
He always plays minor roles.
A very small or bit part, often with few lines. More specific than 脇役.
その俳優は端役で映画に出演した。
The actor appeared in the movie in a bit part.
From 'mob character'. Used in anime/manga/game contexts for background characters with no individual identity.
このゲームのモブキャラはみんな同じ顔だ。
The background characters in this game all have the same face.
Borrowed from English 'extra'. Standard term for a background actor in film or TV.
彼女はエキストラとして撮影に参加した。
She participated in the filming as an extra.
Literally 'background person'. A straightforward, casual way to refer to someone in the background.
あの背景の人はずっと立っているだけだ。
That background person is just standing there the whole time.
Means 'the rest of the many' or 'the crowd'. Refers to a group of unimportant characters collectively.
主人公以外はその他大勢だ。
Everyone besides the main character is just part of the crowd.