A-listers push Texas as a film hub amid LA’s decline. Incentives, petitions, and political moves reshape where movies get made.
Why Are Texas-Born Stars Pushing to Make Their State a Film Hub?
Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Dennis Quaid, Billy Bob Thornton, and Renée Zellweger are leading the “True to Texas” campaign, urging filmmakers to shift productions to the Lone Star State.
Their new ad, directed by Nic Pizzolatto (creator of True Detective), blends Hollywood flair with Texan pride.
McConaughey and Harrelson even channel their True Detective personas, musing about a “rebirth” for the industry.
What Financial Incentives Is Texas Offering?
The Texas Senate recently proposed a $498 million budget to revamp film incentives, including $48 million for small projects and $450 million in tax credits.
Lt. Governor Dan Patrick claims this could position Texas as the “movie capital of the world.”
Productions like Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone spinoffs and Landman already film there, leveraging the state’s landscapes and economic benefits.
Why Is Hollywood Struggling to Keep Productions?
Los Angeles saw filming activity drop to historic lows in 2024, down 5.6% from 2023. FilmLA attributes this to runaway production, industry contraction, and slow post-strike recovery.
Huge wildfires in January worsened fears, sparking the “Stay in LA” petition.
Backed by Keanu Reeves and Olivia Wilde, it demands uncapped tax incentives and pledges from studios to film 10% more locally.
Can California Compete With Texas’ Ambitions?
Governor Gavin Newsom proposed boosting California’s film tax credits to $750 million. Meanwhile, Trump-appointed “Special Ambassadors” Mel Gibson and Sylvester Stallone criticized LA’s high costs and regulations.
Gibson argued tax breaks aren’t enough, stating, “There are other things that offset that.”
What’s at Stake for Both Sides?
Texas promises job growth and economic boosts, while Hollywood fights to retain its cultural identity.
As stars and politicians clash over incentives, the battle reflects broader shifts in where—and how—entertainment gets made.
Quick Facts
- Texas Budget: $498M for film incentives, including $450M in tax credits.
- LA’s 2024 Drop: Filming fell 5.6%, the second-lowest since 2020.
- Petition: “Stay in LA” urges tax breaks to save local jobs.
- Trump’s Ambassadors: Mel Gibson, Sylvester Stallone, Jon Voight.
- Key Advocates: McConaughey, Quaid, Zellweger, and Sheridan’s Texas-based shows.