January 18, 2026

Charleston’s Rising Star in Film and Television Production

Charleston, SC, January 18, 2026

Charleston, SC, is rapidly becoming a significant center for film and television production, attracting major projects like ‘Outer Banks’ and ‘The Righteous Gemstones.’ The city’s unique charm and historic architecture provide ideal backdrops for various productions. This surge is not only bolstering local businesses and providing casting opportunities for residents but also contributing significantly to South Carolina’s economy through various incentive programs. As educational initiatives flourish, the future looks promising for Charleston’s entertainment sector and its community involvement.

Charleston, SC

Lights, Camera, Action: Charleston’s Growing Role in Film and Television

The Lowcountry’s scenic charm and vibrant community are increasingly capturing the attention of filmmakers and television producers, transforming Charleston into a dynamic hub for the entertainment industry. This surge in activity not only brings the captivating world of Hollywood closer to home but also ignites entrepreneurial spirit, fosters local talent, and generates significant economic growth within Charleston County and across the state.

Charleston’s unique blend of historic architecture, picturesque waterways, and diverse landscapes makes it an irresistible backdrop for a variety of productions. From major streaming series to independent films, the demand for authentic, visually stunning locations is met with ease in the Holy City. This burgeoning industry creates a ripple effect, empowering local small businesses, offering new avenues for personal achievement, and demonstrating the benefits of a supportive environment for economic expansion.

The Lowcountry Lure: Why Charleston Shines on Screen

Charleston’s appeal to the film and television industry is undeniable, with its rich history and diverse topography offering a wide array of settings. Productions ranging from Netflix’s hit series “Outer Banks” to HBO’s “The Righteous Gemstones” have chosen Charleston as a primary filming location. The city has also served as a backdrop for Bravo’s “Southern Charm” and even installments of the “Halloween” franchise, showcasing its versatility. Historically, the Lowcountry’s beauty has been immortalized in acclaimed films such as “The Notebook” and “Forrest Gump.” Other notable productions filmed in Charleston include “North and South Parts I & II,” “Scarlett,” “Queen,” “O,” and “Major League III.” The economic benefit extends beyond the immediate production, as these projects draw both local and out-of-state talent and crew, who then contribute to the local Charleston SC business landscape.

Casting a Wide Net: Opportunities for Local Talent

The rise in filming activity directly translates into casting opportunities for residents of Charleston and the surrounding areas. Current projects, such as Season 5 of “Outer Banks,” have actively sought local talent in Charleston, SC. Additionally, an upcoming NBC show has been filming in Charleston and accepting applications for paid stand-in roles for individuals aged twelve and up, with specific needs for those in their twenties to forties. This creates avenues for aspiring actors to gain valuable on-set experience. Charleston serves as a significant casting location within a regional network that also includes Charlotte, North Carolina, and Columbia, South Carolina. Talent agencies based in Charleston, such as Coastal Talent Agency and Millie Lewis of Charleston Model & Talent Agency, play a crucial role in connecting local actors with these film, television, and commercial opportunities across the Southeast.

Beyond casting calls for larger productions, the local film community thrives with independent filmmakers like Travis Pearson and Felicia Rivers who are creating their own projects, often utilizing local actors and showcasing the city’s unique stories. For those looking to hone their craft, acting studios in the Charleston area, including the Charleston Acting Studio, The Green Room Acting Studio, and Millie Lewis, provide professional training for various age groups, helping individuals develop the skills necessary for a career in front of the camera.

Economic Ripple Effect: Small Businesses Thrive

The film industry’s presence in South Carolina has a tangible and positive economic impact, contributing significantly to the state’s revenue. In 2018 alone, the industry generated $61 million in revenue for the state. This economic benefit is felt directly by Charleston small business owners. Production companies frequently rely on local producers and filmmakers to manage logistics and navigate the city’s regulations. This demand fosters entrepreneurial innovation, with local companies like MadLad Films, Coastal Cineworks, Meade Agency, and On It Video offering comprehensive production services, from pre-production to post-production, videography, and equipment rentals. These businesses support not only local clients but also national brands and larger productions, demonstrating their resilience and adaptability.

The impact extends to various sectors. For every $1.00 spent by the state on wage rebates for film productions, a total income effect of $1.30 is generated for South Carolina. Furthermore, for every $1.00 spent in rebates related to suppliers, a total income effect of $3.68 is generated for state citizens. This illustrates how film production drives economic growth by supporting local hospitality, catering, equipment rental, and other essential services. When out-of-state film crews and talent reside in the area, they act much like tourists, contributing to local hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments.

South Carolina’s Pro-Growth Approach to Film

South Carolina has proactively cultivated a favorable environment for film and television production through aggressive incentive programs designed to attract projects to the state. These incentives, which often come in the form of cash rebates, distinguish South Carolina from states that primarily offer tax credits. The state provides a 25% rebate on in-state wages and a 20% rebate for out-of-state wages, applicable to the first $1 million in compensation for each individual involved in a project. Additionally, productions can receive a 30% rebate on qualifying goods and services purchased from South Carolina suppliers. For productions spending over $250,000 in the state, exemptions from state sales, use, and accommodations taxes, ranging from 6% to 8.5%, are available.

The primary Motion Picture Incentive requires a minimum in-state spend of $1 million within a single taxable year to qualify for these rebates. To further support local talent and smaller ventures, the state introduced a Local Filmmaker Incentive pilot program in 2025, offering a 25% cash rebate for projects spending between $250,000 and $1 million. These direct cash payments are typically issued within 30 days of a final audit, providing a swift return on investment for production companies and stimulating further economic activity. Such policies underscore a commitment to fostering a competitive and growth-oriented economy, beneficial for South Carolina entrepreneurs and the overall Lowcountry economic growth.

Cultivating the Future: Education and Community Engagement

The long-term health of Charleston’s film industry is bolstered by robust educational initiatives and community involvement. Institutions like the College of Charleston and Trident Technical College offer film-related programs that help cultivate the next generation of filmmakers and crew members. Trident Technical College, in particular, assists students in securing positions on productions and connecting with industry professionals, building a strong local network of alumni. Furthermore, the South Carolina Film Commission, in collaboration with Trident Technical College, hosts a Young Filmmakers competition and story conference in Charleston, encouraging budding talent at the high school and middle school levels. This dedication to local workforce development ensures a steady supply of skilled professionals, reducing reliance on out-of-state talent and strengthening the local economy.

The influx of production also encourages residents to engage with the vibrant arts scene, whether through participating in local theatre, attending film festivals, or even exploring opportunities as extras. The industry’s presence helps to build a more dynamic and culturally rich community, showcasing Charleston’s appeal far beyond its historic charm. This blend of creative endeavor, supported by proactive economic policies, positions Charleston for continued prominence in the entertainment world.

Conclusion

Charleston, South Carolina, is firmly establishing itself as a significant player in the film and television industry, attracting major productions and nurturing a thriving local ecosystem of talent and businesses. This growth is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of South Carolina entrepreneurs, the resilience of Charleston small business owners who support these productions, and the state’s strategic commitment to fostering economic development through effective incentive programs. The ongoing influx of film and TV projects contributes substantially to the Charleston County economy, creating jobs, generating revenue, and showcasing the Lowcountry to a global audience. As this exciting sector continues to expand, supporting local businesses, talent, and educational programs will be key to ensuring Charleston’s enduring success as a cinematic destination. Engage with your local film community, support the businesses that serve it, and help write the next chapter of Charleston’s story on screen.

Frequently Asked Questions About Film and TV Production in Charleston, SC

What TV shows and movies have filmed in Charleston, SC?: Netflix’s “Outer Banks” and HBO’s “The Righteous Gemstones” have filmed in Charleston. Bravo’s “Southern Charm” and “Halloween” installments have also filmed in the Charleston area. Historically, films like “The Notebook” and “Forrest Gump” were shot here.
Are there currently casting calls for movies or TV shows in Charleston, SC?: Yes, “Outer Banks” Season 5 has been filming/casting in Charleston, SC. An upcoming NBC show is also filming in Charleston, SC, and accepting applications for paid stand-ins for individuals twelve and up, with specific needs for those in their twenties to forties.
What kind of economic impact does the film industry have on South Carolina?: The film industry provides significant economic impact for South Carolina, netting $61 million in revenue for the state in 2018. For every $1.00 spent on wage rebates, a total income effect of $1.30 is generated for South Carolina. For every $1.00 spent in rebates related to suppliers, a total income effect of $3.68 is generated for state citizens.
What film incentives does South Carolina offer to productions?: South Carolina offers a 25% rebate on in-state wages and a 20% rebate for out-of-state wages, up to $1 million per person per project. A 30% rebate is available for qualifying goods and services purchased from South Carolina suppliers. Productions spending over $250,000 in SC can also receive sales, use, and accommodations tax exemptions (6-8.5%).
Are there opportunities for local filmmakers and talent in Charleston?: Yes, local filmmakers are creating their own projects using local actors. Talent agencies like Coastal Talent Agency and Millie Lewis of Charleston Model & Talent Agency connect local actors with opportunities. Acting studios and educational programs, such as those at the College of Charleston and Trident Technical College, also support aspiring talent.

Key Features of Film and TV Production in Charleston, SC

Feature	Description	Scope
Recent / Notable Productions	“Outer Banks” (Season 5 actively filming/casting), “The Righteous Gemstones”, “Southern Charm”, “Halloween” installments, upcoming NBC show.	Charleston, SC
Economic Impact (2018)	Generated $61 million in revenue for the state.	State-level
Wage Rebate	25% for in-state wages, 20% for out-of-state wages (up to $1 million per person/project).	State-level
Supplier Rebate	30% for qualifying goods/services from SC suppliers.	State-level
Tax Exemptions	Sales, use, and accommodations tax exemptions (6-8.5%) for productions spending over $250,000.	State-level
Rebate Type	Direct cash rebate, paid within 30 days of final audit.	State-level
Local Filmmaker Incentive	Pilot program (2025) offers 25% cash rebate for projects spending $250,000 to $1 million.	State-level
Talent Agencies	Coastal Talent Agency, Millie Lewis of Charleston Model & Talent Agency.	Charleston, SC
Local Production Companies	MadLad Films, Coastal Cineworks, Meade Agency, On It Video.	Charleston, SC