17 TV projects, including the “Baywatch” reboot, receive the California film tax credit
More than a dozen TV shows received production incentives to film in California, including several that relocated from other states, such as the action series “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” and the “Baywatch” reboot.
Together, Series 17 is expected to generate $1.2 billion in economic activity for the state. The shows are estimated to employ a total of 5,165 cast and crew, plus more than 35,000 background actors.
In total, the shows were given about $313 million in tax credits, with the third season of the post-apocalyptic series “Fallout” getting the largest credit ($166 million). “Baywatch,” which relocated from Hawaii, received a $21 million credit, while “Mr. and Mrs. Smith,” returning from New York and Italy, received nearly $80 million. Netflix’s “Forever” has earned nearly $63 million.
These shows are the second round of television projects to receive incentive awards under the state’s renewed film and television tax credit program. The new program was approved by state lawmakers and signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom earlier this year, and now caps at $750 million, up from $330 million.
Eligibility criteria have also been expanded to allow more offer types to be applied.
The changes to the program came after intense lobbying from unions, Hollywood studios and other insiders amid a migration of filming to other states and countries with more generous production incentives.
“California’s creative economy is not just part of who we are — it helps move this state forward,” Newsom said in a statement. “And when we make smart investments like the film tax credit, we keep talent here at home, support good-paying union jobs, and strengthen the industry that defines California.”
“Baywatch” executive producer and director Matt Nix said the January wildfires encouraged him to want to film in the Golden State. He said in a statement that the fires nearly destroyed his home, but he was inspired by “the heroism of the first responders who fought to save our community.”
“Baywatch was born in Los Angeles,” Nicks said. “I’m so glad we can bring him home again.”