The Paramount+ series “Tulsa King,” starring Sylvester Stallone, is making a significant shift for its second season. After filming its debut season in Oklahoma, the production is now moving to Georgia, with plans to film at Eagle Rock Studios in Norcross under the code name King Street. While the official start date for season two filming is still to be determined, the change in location has sparked interest and speculation among fans and industry observers alike.
Motivation Behind the Move
The relocation from Oklahoma to Georgia appears to be driven by financial considerations and logistical challenges, particularly regarding state film tax credits and climate conditions. Oklahoma’s film tax credit program has an annual cap of $30 million, which can limit the financial benefits available to large-scale productions. In contrast, Georgia is one of six states without a cap on its film tax credits, offering a more favorable economic environment for film and television projects.
Rachel Cannon, founder of Oklahoma City’s Prairie Surf Studios, expressed a positive perspective on the series’ move. “We loved hosting this incredible series for its first season and wish them the best wherever they land,” Cannon told The Oklahoman last spring. “As we continue to grow this industry into something that competes with states like Georgia and California, we can’t be disappointed if productions need to go somewhere else to fulfill their financial needs. This was a win for Oklahoma. Full stop.”
Climate Considerations
Showrunner Terence Winter, known for his work on “The Sopranos,” highlighted the challenging climate conditions in Oklahoma during the first season. “I had no idea how hot it would be. I don’t think anybody did. When we first got there, it was freezing, and then, within days, it was 106 degrees and then stayed that way for like five months. You guys are probably used to that, but we were like, ‘What the hell just happened?’” Stallone also commented on the intense heat, noting on social media platform X, “Being in Oklahoma has definitely prepared me for a lifetime in hell if I ever get sent there!”
Georgia’s climate is more temperate than Oklahoma, even at its hottest, making it a more comfortable and stable environment for the cast and crew.
Economic Incentives and Infrastructure
Georgia has become a leading destination for film and television productions, thanks to its generous tax credit program, which can provide up to 30% tax credits for qualified expenditures. This financial incentive significantly reduces production costs, making it an attractive option for studios. Additionally, Georgia boasts a robust infrastructure with state-of-the-art facilities, experienced crews, and a world-class airport, all of which contribute to a more efficient production process.
Diverse Filming Locations
Although “Tulsa King” is set in Oklahoma, Georgia’s varied landscapes can convincingly replicate the necessary environments. From urban areas to rural landscapes, Georgia’s versatility allows the production to maintain the show’s authentic feel while benefiting from the logistical advantages of filming in the state. The trick will be making Georgia resemble Oklahoma, but with the state’s diverse locations and skilled crew, this challenge is well within reach.
Impact on Georgia’s Film Industry
The decision to move “Tulsa King” to Georgia is a testament to the state’s growing influence in the entertainment industry. This relocation is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the local economy, including job creation and increased business for local vendors and services. It also reinforces Georgia’s reputation as a top filming destination capable of attracting high-profile productions.
The Show and Its Cast
“Tulsa King” features Sylvester Stallone as Dwight “The General” Manfredi, a 75-year-old former New York gangster who, after serving a 25-year prison sentence, is exiled to Tulsa by his ex-boss’s son. In this new and unfamiliar territory, he seeks to revive his criminal operations. The show’s cast includes Dana Delaney, Garrett Hedlund, Andrea Savage, Martin Starr, Jay Will, Max Casella, Domenick Lombardozzi, Vincent Piazza, and A.C. Peterson.
Conclusion
The move of “Tulsa King” from Oklahoma to Georgia for its second season highlights the strategic decisions behind location choices in the film and TV industry. Georgia’s combination of economic incentives, robust infrastructure, and versatile locations makes it an attractive option for producers. As “Tulsa King” continues to captivate audiences, its new filming location in Georgia showcases the state’s rising prominence in the entertainment world. Meanwhile, Oklahoma’s experience with the series marks a significant achievement in its burgeoning film industry, as noted by Prairie Surf Studios’ Rachel Cannon.
