California's expanded Film and Television Tax Credit program is projected to generate a record $6.6 billion in economic impact during its first year, with 41 new film projects announced today. Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the program's success in bringing thousands of jobs and direct investment to communities across the state.
Since its expansion, the Program 4.0 has awarded 170 projects across the full fiscal year (July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026), collectively representing $6.6 billion in direct production spending and creating 34,921 cast and crew jobs. The 41 newly approved projects alone are expected to contribute $1.1 billion in direct production spending and generate 6,198 cast and crew jobs.
Among the new projects are DreamWorks Animation’s "DONKEY," Disney’s "Hexed," and "Gingerbread Men" from Artists Equity. These animation projects alone are designed to generate $711 million in total California economic impact, including $145 million in qualified wages, employing over 1,900 cast and crew members. Randy Lake, Chief Operating Officer at DreamWorks Animation, said the tax credit is "a game changer, allowing DreamWorks Animation to keep production on two of our most valuable franchises in California."
Governor Newsom said, "California has long set the standard for entertainment production, creating good-paying jobs and showcasing the creativity and innovation that define the Golden State." He added that the program is "already delivering results — generating billions in economic activity, creating opportunities for businesses and the workforce, and bringing more productions home to California." Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission, noted the "strong demand we continue to see for production in California," emphasizing the program's role in bringing "production, jobs, and economic opportunity to communities throughout California."
The program also supports independent productions, with 35 independent films among the 41 new awards. Academy Award Winner Ben Affleck, Director and Producer for Artists Equity, said that "Gingerbread Men" will be filmed in Los Angeles, close to their company office and "the best and most experienced cast and crew, vendors, and service providers."
The revamped program has seen applications grow by 82% compared to the previous year, with TV drama shoot days increasing over 40% in the first quarter of 2026. Notable TV projects include "Fallout" (Season 3) and "NCIS: Origins" (Season 3), while series like "Tracker" are relocating to California. Supervising Location Manager Veronique Vowell said the enhanced tax credit allowed "Tracker" to move to Los Angeles, bringing 10 location professionals and numerous small vendors back to work.
Since its inception in 2009, the program has generated over $34.2 billion in economic activity and supported more than 243,000 jobs. The expanded program, now one of the largest capped film incentives in the nation, aims to maintain California’s competitive edge while prioritizing workforce diversity, training, and safety initiatives.