Vice President Mike Pence made a joke during an appearance in Georgia that was meant to send a message, but folks on Twitter reminded him that the state has a thriving film and television industry and is known as « the Hollywood of the South. »
In addition to Winfrey, Abrams has also attracted some other star power, including actor Will Ferrell, who recently went door-to-door to campaign for the candidate.
Pence took note of these celebrities in a speech and also tweeted about it.
« I’d like to remind Stacey and Oprah and Will Ferrell, I’m kind of a big deal, too, » Pence said. « And we’ve got a message for all of Stacey’s Hollywood friends: This ain’t Hollywood. This is Georgia. »
That response caused some folks on Twitter to remind Pence that Georgia’s thriving film and television industry has led the state to become known as « the Hollywood of the South. »
« Mike Pence: « This isn’t Hollywood, this is Georgia,' » writer and producer Robert Schooley tweeted. « Where most of last year’s top grossing movies were made. »
Bolstered by generous tax credits, the state has attracted several television shows including « The Walking Dead, » « Stranger Things » and « The Resident » as well as major feature films such as « Black Panther. »
In August, Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal announced that movies and television productions filmed in the state « generated a total economic impact of $9.5 billion during (fiscal year) 2018. »
« The record 455 film and television productions shot in Georgia represent $2.7 billion in direct spending in the state, » a press release from the state said.
« According to the Motion Picture Association of America the motion picture and television industry is responsible for more than 92,100 jobs and nearly $4.6 billion in total wages in Georgia, including indirect jobs and wages. Since 2010, more than 300 new businesses have relocated or expanded in Georgia to support the industry. »
