Raleigh, N.C.
In a significant boost to North Carolina’s film industry, Governor Stein announced the approval of grants for three television series and four independent films in Wilmington today. These projects are projected to generate over 3,800 jobs and are anticipated to inject more than $131.6 million into the state’s economy. The announcement took place at Bespoke Coffee Shop, a past filming location for the TV series “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” which also previously benefited from these grants.
Governor Josh Stein remarked, “North Carolina is home to a thriving TV and film industry, and it’s only getting stronger. These grants support this vital economic activity that benefits small businesses and suppliers across the state.”
New Productions on the Horizon
Among the new projects are:
TV/Streaming Series
- The “RJ Decker Pilot” will receive up to $2.8 million and was shot in the Greater Wilmington area.
- Season 2 of “Beast Games,” filmed in Pitt and New Hanover counties, secured an award of up to $15 million.
- The Charlotte region will host “Top Chef” Season 23, with a grant of up to $2.5 million.
Feature-Length Films
- “Drivers Ed,” completed in New Hanover, Pender, and Orange counties, is awarded up to $1.835 million.
- “Bad Counselors” filmed in Cabarrus and Mecklenburg counties, gets up to $2.03 million.
- “The Bard” is concluding in the Piedmont Triad area with up to $4.6 million in grants.
- “May and the Woodsman” will use locations in the Piedmont Triad and Northwest Prosperity Zones, earning up to $412,500.
Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley added, “It’s great to see more film productions underway in our state. In addition to the direct spending these productions bring, they also increase North Carolina’s visibility as a tourist destination, visibility that leads to increased visitor spending as well.”
North Carolina’s Film and Entertainment Grant program has helped films like Roofman, Christy, and Drivers Ed gain recognition, including selection for the Toronto International Film Festival. These productions also enhance North Carolina’s reputation as a cinematic hub.
Guy Gaster, Director of the North Carolina Film Office, stated, “A flourishing film industry in our state is a win-win, bringing economic benefits and job opportunities to our residents and elevating North Carolina’s presence on the global stage. We’re committed to nurturing this symbiotic relationship between filmmakers and the communities that make North Carolina an exceptional destination for cinematic storytelling.”
The North Carolina Film and Entertainment Grant incentivizes film and TV productions by offering rebates post-completion, contingent on in-state spending. Administered by the North Carolina Department of Commerce and promoted by the North Carolina Film Office, this initiative aims to drive economic growth and job creation.
For more information, visit the North Carolina Film Office website.
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