Fort Worth is experiencing a notable transformation into a film production hub, a change solidified by the recent passage of Senate Bill 22. This legislation, effective September 1, 2025, allocates approximately $1.5 billion over the next decade to attract film and television projects to Texas.
Productions that primarily shoot in the state and employ Texas crews can receive rebates of up to 31 percent on their expenses, positioning Texas to compete with established markets like Georgia and California.
The impact of this initiative is particularly visible in Fort Worth, where five series from producer Taylor Sheridan are currently in production. These include the second season of "Landman," the special-operations series "Lioness," and "The Madison," a spinoff of "Yellowstone." The earlier successes of Sheridan's shows, such as "Yellowstone" and "1883," have helped to develop a skilled local crew base.
According to Taylor Hardy, head of the Fort Worth Film Commission, the second season of "Landman" alone has created over 3,850 jobs, encompassing cast, crew, and background talent. The overall economic contribution of film production in Fort Worth has surpassed $700 million since 2015. Productions typically spend around $100,000 daily on local services, benefiting various businesses across the area.
Local officials, including Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, have actively advocated for these incentives in Austin, emphasizing the importance of establishing Fort Worth as a key player in the film industry. Recent projects have filmed across North Texas, showcasing the extensive reach of the film sector beyond the city itself.
With companies like Red Productions establishing permanent facilities and plans for new sound stages at AllianceTexas, the future of film production in Fort Worth looks promising, supported by a long-term commitment from the state.
Denton is about 12 miles west of Little Elm.
