Home / Arts and Entertainment / LA Soundstages Face Historic Production Downturn
LA Soundstages Face Historic Production Downturn
18 Mar
Summary
- Soundstage occupancy in Los Angeles dropped to 62% in early 2025.
- Production has significantly declined since 2022's 'Great Netflix Correction'.
- California's tax credit expansion offers hope amid industry contraction.
The first half of 2025 saw Los Angeles' major soundstages operating at a mere 62% occupancy, a one percent decrease from 2024 and a stark contrast to the 90% rates seen between 2016 and 2022. This significant drop in production is attributed to the industry's contraction following the "Great Netflix Correction" in 2022 and the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
While the total number of projects filmed increased by five percent from 2023 to 2024, the total number of shoot days declined by eight percent. Scripted television, in particular, experienced a 23% decrease in shoot days. This downturn impacts new soundstage developments and local crew members.
Despite these challenges, initiatives like California's expanded film and television tax credit program, alongside efforts from L.A. Mayor Karen Bass, aim to stabilize the industry. Los Angeles remains the global leader in soundstage availability, boasting 8.3 million square feet, but the key question remains whether production will return to fill this extensive infrastructure.
