Hollywood filmmakers are boycotting Georgia over 'heartbeat' abortion bill
Georgia’s Republican Gov. Brian Kemp, center, signs legislation, Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Atlanta, banning abortions once a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which can be as early as six weeks before many women know they’re pregnant. Three independent production companies have announced they won’t do business in the state after the governor signed the “heartbeat” bill. By Steven Zeitchik Steven Zeitchik Reporter covering the business of entertainment in the U.S.
The controversy stems from Georgia’s Living Infants Fairness and Equality Act, which could ban abortions as early as six weeks into pregnancy. Gov. Brian Kemp on Tuesday signed the bill, considered one of the most restrictive in the country. The law will go into effect on Jan. 1 if it is not stopped by the courts.
Actress Alyssa Milano, front right, poses with film industry workers and pro-abortion rights supporters after delivering a letter to Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp's office detailing her opposition to HB 481 at the State Capitol, Tuesday, April 2, 2019, in Atlanta. HB 481 would ban almost all abortions after a fetal heartbeat can be detected.
According to the state’s film commission, in the most recent fiscal year there was direct spending of $2.7 billion in Georgia as the industry took advantage of the credit offered by the state. Georgia has flourished as Disney, Sony, MTV, Lionsgate and numerous other companies have shot films there. “Hunger Games” movies were shot there, as were “Black Panther” and TV’s “The Walking Dead.”
Actress Alyssa Milano, who is shooting the Netflix series “Insatiable” in Georgia, has been among those outspoken about the state’s legislation. She added: “Thousands of actors and film crew members converge on Georgia every year, and we hope to continue to do so. But we require a safe working environment with respect, tolerance, and love. All artists, especially women, must feel welcome.”
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