CHARLOTTE, N.C. — North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory's office released strong numbers showing the huge impact the film industry has in the state -- all while financial incentives remain up in the air.
His office reported more than 60 productions registered with the N.C. Film Office and filmed in North Carolina in 2013.
All of that adds up to $254 million in in-state spending and the creation of 25,000 job opportunities.
Many popular shows have been filmed in the Charlotte area, like "Homeland," "Sleepy Hollow" and "Banshee."
Just 12 days ago, Eyewitness News asked McCrory about the future of financial incentives for the film industry -- a 25 percent state tax credit is set to expire at the end of this month -- but the governor said he can't guarantee state incentives will be available. He said he hopes to have a better idea at the beginning of next year.
If those tax incentives aren't renewed, it could spell trouble for the developer who wants to build a major studio at the Eastland Mall site.
Last month, Mayor Pat Cannon said if the state doesn't extend the film credits, all the work to bring in Studio Charlotte could be in vain.
Right now, $37 million in taxpayer money is going toward the project, but the developer defends it, saying the studio will transform east Charlotte.
WSOC
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