What's Happening?
BBC Studios is exploring the possibility of moving the production of its ABC summer hit, 'Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro,' to Los Angeles for its potential second season. The show's first season was filmed in Brisbane, Australia, contributing an estimated
A$7.2 million ($5 million) to the local Australian economy and employing approximately 110 local cast and crew. The company has initiated the application process for a California tax credit, currently in Phase 2. This move would bring the spinoff to the same city where the original 'Dancing with the Stars' has filmed all 35 of its seasons since its 2005 premiere. The decision to seek a California tax credit follows the signing of the California Film & Television Jobs Act (California Assembly Bill 1138) in 2025 by Governor Gavin Newsom, which expanded tax credits to include unscripted shows for the first time, specifically large-scale competition shows.
Why It's Important?
This potential relocation is significant for the Los Angeles production community, which has recently experienced a decline in on-location production. FilmLA reported a 13% drop in overall on-location production in L.A. from the previous year, with reality shows seeing an even sharper 40% decrease in the second quarter. Several shows, including 'American Idol' and 'The Masked Singer,' have moved production out of California to reduce costs. If 'The Next Pro' successfully secures the California tax credit and moves its production to Los Angeles, it would represent a positive development for the local unscripted television sector, potentially creating jobs and boosting the economy. It would also mark only the second unscripted show to receive such a credit, highlighting a new trend in incentivizing television production within the state.
What's Next?
BBC Studios is awaiting the allocation of the California tax credit, with the approval date for the next round of funding anticipated around November 16, though full results might take longer. The approval of this credit is a crucial step before a budget for a second season can be finalized and discussions with ABC can proceed. While the show has not yet been officially renewed for a second season, the efforts to secure the tax credit are seen as a positive indicator for its future. If the move is successful, it could encourage other unscripted productions to consider California, potentially reversing the recent trend of shows leaving the state.
Beyond the Headlines
The pursuit of tax credits by 'Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro' underscores a broader industry trend where production locations are heavily influenced by financial incentives. The California Film & Television Jobs Act's expansion to include unscripted shows reflects a strategic effort by the state to retain and attract television production, acknowledging the economic impact of such projects. This development could lead to increased competition among states for television productions, potentially prompting other regions to re-evaluate their own incentive programs. The success or failure of this move could serve as a case study for the effectiveness of tax credits in influencing production decisions within the entertainment industry.
