Georgia’s film industry is facing a boycott following the election of Brian Kemp as governor.
Kemp, who served as the Secretary of State and oversaw the election, has been accused of voter suppression leading up to the election.
Some of Hollywood’s biggest influencers, actors, models, and talent are calling for a boycott of Georgia’s booming film industry. For example, Frank Rich, the executive producer of HBO’s VEEP, said, “If Kemp wins in Georgia, Hollywood should put its money where its mouth is and pull all production out of the state,” Rich tweeted.
Alyssa Milano, said on Twitter “There are over 20 productions shooting in Georgia. Is the entertainment industry willing to support the economy of a totally corrupt state that suppresses democracy; where the winner isn’t the best choice for the people but the best schemer or crook?”
Ron Perlman from FX’s hit TV series Sons of Anarchy tweeted, “To all my friends who are studio and network executives if you choose to shoot movies and tv in Georgia, don’t bother to call me.”
Steven Pasquale tweeted, “Billions of Hollywood dollars spent and created in GA. We can do something about this.#boycottgeorgia”
It is important to note Georgia is #1 state for film production. In fact, according to Governor Nathan Deal, Georgia was home to a record-breaking 455 film and TV productions in the fiscal year 2018, which generated a total economic impact of $9.5 billion.
Despite criticizing Kemp of several actions that she called “voter suppression” tactics. Stacey Abrams ran against Brian Kemp in the Gubernatorial election and called for Hollywood not to boycott the state. She wrote, “I appreciate the calls to action, but I ask all of our entertainment industry friends to support #FairFightGA – but please do not #boycottgeorgia. The hard-working Georgians who serve on crews & make a living here are not to blame. I promise: We will fight – and we will win.”
Kemp has voiced his support of film tax credits, which has brought hundreds of Hollywood productions into Georgia over the past 10 years and billions of dollars in direct spending.
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