State officials say television and film production generated nearly a half-billion dollars in spending in Illinois last year. The Illinois Film Office says the 2016 figure of $499 million represents a 51% increase over 2015. Film office officials say the state worked with 345 television, commercial and film projects which generated nearly 13,400 job hires during 2016.
State officials credited Illinois' success to having a strong talent pool, diverse shooting locations, and a competitive incentive program. Illinois offers a 30% tax credit.
TV shows like FOX's "Empire" and NBC's "Chicago Fire," "Chicago PD" and "Chicago Med" film in the state. That lineup is set to add "Chicago Justice," which started filming in September. Online media services like Netflix and Amazon also air shows filmed in Illinois.
