In a noteworthy move for California's entertainment industry, Governor Gavin Newsom has unveiled the latest beneficiaries of the state’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. According to a press release from the governor's office, this round of the program is set to usher in $1.2 billion of economic activity via 17 television projects. Specific attention was drawn to the high-profile return of 'Baywatch' to California, where it will be expected to infuse the sun-kissed shores with jobs and economic growth.
"California’s creative economy isn’t just part of who we are — it helps power this state forward," Newsom was quoted, underscoring the role of the creative sector in the state's progress. With an estimated 5,165 cast and crew and 35,946 background performers poised to benefit, these projects signify a surge in consistent work opportunities. Highlighted by the governor was the 'Baywatch' series, celebrating its return to California for its 12th year on our screens, alongside two other high-profile shows: 'The Night Agent' Season 4 and 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith' Season 2.
Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission, expressed the shared sentiment that the tax credit program is prompting the entertainment industry to invest back into the California workforce. "These series aren’t just coming home, they’re bringing thousands of jobs, hundreds of millions in wages, and long-term economic value to our state," Bell stated, according to the official announcement.
Rob Wade, CEO of FOX Entertainment, lauded the support from public officials such as State Senator Ben Allen and L.A. City Councilwoman Traci Park, for their efforts in orchestrating the return of 'Baywatch.' "It’s been incredibly rewarding to work alongside our partners at the California Film Commission to create an economically sustainable path for keeping a production like Baywatch – so spectacularly tied to this great city and state – right here in Los Angeles," Wade told officials. In alignment with these initiatives, the show's executive producer, Matt Nix, shared a personal resonance, having seen his home nearly ravaged by California wildfires yet choosing to highlight the region's beauty and possibility through the show.
The tax credit program is not just about attracting storied franchises like 'Baywatch,' but also retaining series like 'Fallout,' which will continue its California production into Season 3. Jonathan Nolan, associated with the show, extolled the state as a cradle of cinema dreams. "We are incredibly proud to be shooting here and investing that money back into the place that gave so many of us our start, and that so many of us call home," Nolan stated in the same press release.
The California Film Commission administers the tax credit program, which, after recent enhancements, now touts a budget of $750 million. Since its 2009 inception, the program has spurred over $30.6 billion in economic activity and has been a boon for cast and crew employment in California. The program's expansion shores up California's competitive position in the creative sector while also emphasising workforce diversity, training opportunities, and on-set safety.
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