Gov. Josh Stein voices support for North Carolina film industry during Wilmington visit

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Gov. Josh Stein and North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley visited Wilmington on Tuesday, reaffirming their support for the state’s film industry as discussions continue over the state’s film incentive program.

Stein and Lilley toured Cinespace Studios and discussed the potential economic impact of changes to the North Carolina Film and Entertainment Grant Program.

“North Carolina’s film industry is an important part of our economy, supporting thousands of jobs and bringing millions in investment to our state,” Stein said. “We must protect that success and give productions the certainty they need to continue to invest here for the long term.”

The state currently offers qualifying film and television productions rebates of up to 25% on eligible in-state production expenses through the grant program.

According to the governor’s office, nearly 60 productions filmed across North Carolina in 2024, generating more than $302 million in direct in-state spending.

State officials also said productions have spent more than $1.3 billion in North Carolina over the past decade and brought nearly 67,000 job opportunities to the state during that period.

“Our film industry creates great jobs while putting the best of our state on screen for the world to see,” Lilley said. “We are committed to working with the General Assembly to find a solution that will keep cameras rolling across North Carolina.”

Recent productions in the state have included “RJ Decker,” “Beast Games,” “Top Chef” and “The Hunting Wives.”

North Carolina has a workforce of more than 4,000 film professionals, according to the governor’s office.