Film production in North Carolina brings in $300 million from in-state spending

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – North Carolina’s film productions have generated more than $302 million in direct in-state spending this year, marking 2024 as the second-highest year-end total since 2015.

“North Carolina’s strong economic recovery includes our amazing film industry which had been devastated by HB2 and other destructive legislation when I took office,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “Since 2017, movie, television and streaming productions have invested more than $1.4 billion in the state while creating nearly 97,000 jobs for our skilled film professionals and background talent, completing the comeback and proving that North Carolina is ready for center stage.”

More than 55 productions were filmed in the state in 2024, with 12 projects receiving awards from the N.C. Film and Entertainment Grant.

“Our skilled workforce and beautiful, diverse filming locations have continued to bring more productions and job opportunities to our state,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders. “North Carolina’s film industry is an economic multiplier that we can expect to positively impact the small businesses that surround and support each production set.”

TV or streaming shows released in 2024 produced in North Carolina include “100 Day Hotel Challenge”, “Battle on the Beach”, “Blue Ridge”, “The Hunting Wives”, “The Runarounds,” “The Summer I Turned Pretty” and “The Waterfront.”

Films produced were “Apopka / Christy Martin Biopic”, “Capsized”, “Deadly Intentions”, “Henry’s Ebb”, “Merv”, “Roofman”, “The Double”, “The Gardener” and “The Shot”.

“This year’s success highlights the continued evolution of North Carolina’s film industry and our reputation as a location that offers filmmakers exceptional talent, diverse locations, and a robust incentive program,” said Guy Gaster, director of the North Carolina Film Office. “As we head into a new year with dozens of projects already in the pipeline, we remain dedicated to fostering an environment that strengthens our communities and drives economic growth and look forward to building upon our strong momentum.”

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