‘American Idol’ relocating production from LA to Atlanta

‘American Idol’ is moving its production operations to Atlanta, Georgia, ending a run of more than two decades based in Los Angeles, according to a report from WABE.

The shift is significant for both markets: Atlanta-area crew, studio facilities, and vendors can expect a major long-running network competition series coming their way, while LA-based crew who have worked the show will need to decide whether to follow the production or find new work locally.

Georgia’s film and TV tax incentive — a 30% transferable tax credit with no cap — is widely credited as the primary driver behind the move. Productions shooting in Georgia can also add an additional 10% uplift by including an approved Georgia logo in their credits. The incentive has steadily pulled large-scale productions out of California, and a flagship show like ‘American Idol’ represents a notable acceleration of that trend.

No start date or specific Atlanta facility has been publicly confirmed at this time. Crew with competition/reality television experience in the Atlanta market should watch for hiring activity. LA-based ‘Idol’ regulars should expect production company outreach if the move is confirmed officially.