California Film and Television Industry Faces Major Job Losses

News Summary

California’s film and television industry is experiencing severe job losses, with around 40,000 positions cut since the 2023 strikes. Production levels have dropped significantly, with a 58% decline in TV production in Los Angeles compared to its peak in 2021. Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposal to increase film tax credits may not be enough to compete with other states and countries offering better incentives. Many industry professionals are struggling to find work, prompting some to rethink their careers altogether as the local industry adapts to a challenging new normal.

California is experiencing significant job losses in its film and television industry following strikes in 2023, with approximately 40,000 positions58% decline in television production in the greater Los Angeles area compared to its peak in 2021, causing widespread concern among workers and stakeholders.

The downturn is underscored by a dramatic reduction in shoot days, from 18,560 in 2021 to just 7,716 in 2024. Furthermore, a 22.4% decline in on-location production in Los Angeles was noted in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period the previous year. Matthew Belloni, a commentator on Hollywood affairs, described the current state as a “triage situation,” as production companies pivot to other states or countries that provide stronger tax incentives, which can reach as high as 40% in some European nations.

In response to the escalating crisis, California Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed increasing the state’s annual film and TV tax credits from $330 million to $750 million. However, skepticism remains regarding whether such measures can effectively compete against the more lucrative offers from other jurisdictions, which could hinder California’s recovery.

Many industry professionals are feeling the repercussions of the downturn. Phil Mangano, a film and television editor, has reported limited job opportunities, prompting him to consider alternative employment at a retail chain due to financial pressures. Meanwhile, Heather Fink, a freelance sound utility worker, has faced financial hardship following the strikes but eventually secured a position with the series “Grey’s Anatomy.” Nevertheless, many crew members are being forced to reevaluate their career paths or seek side jobs as a means of maintaining financial stability amid ongoing uncertainty.

The Otis College report reinforces concerns about the industry’s trajectory, indicating that entertainment jobs in California remain 25% lower than the peak seen in 2022, despite the sector adding nearly 15,000 jobs last year. The report notes that shooting days in Los Angeles County fell 42% compared to 2022, highlighting the persistent challenges faced by the industry.

As the industry grapples with these setbacks, there is a growing sentiment that California’s film and TV sector is adapting to a “new normal.” This new phase is characterized by reduced production levels that may not return to the pre-strike landscape. The shift has led productions to seek out filming locations that offer more favorable tax incentives, diminishing the amount of work available within California.

In light of the ongoing challenges, a local initiative called “Stay in L.A.” has emerged, advocating for urgent actions aimed at restoring local filming and promoting on-site production within Los Angeles. This initiative seeks to counter the trend of relocations and encourage investments in the local film industry to revive its economy.

In summary, California’s film and television industry is at a critical juncture following the impacts of the strikes, with job losses mounting and production levels significantly declining. The state’s efforts to enhance tax credits may not suffice to regain its former status as a leading production hub, leaving many workers in the lurch as they navigate the uncertain landscape of the entertainment sector.

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• Los Angeles Times
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• Wikipedia: Film industry in California
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• Encyclopedia Britannica: Filmmaking
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