supporting actor; supporting actress
Refers to a performer in a supporting role in a film, play, or television production. Gender-neutral in Japanese, though English glosses may specify actor or actress.
He appeared in the movie as a supporting actor.
She won the award for best supporting actress.
Compound of 助 (じょ, 'help, assist') + 演 (えん, 'perform') + 者 (しゃ, 'person').