Various productions create 7,500 new jobs in 2019
Employment in Ontario’s film and TV industry was up by 15 per cent in 2019, with 7,500 new jobs, according to the government.
The province had 343 film and television productions in 2019, which brought $2.16 billion in production spending to the province, according to the government. These created and supported 44,540 full-time equivalent (FTE) direct and spin-off jobs.
"These results show that we're building a business-friendly climate where production companies and production service companies can grow,” says Lisa MacLeod, minister of heritage, sport, tourism and culture.
Foreign production brought $1.1 billion to the province in 2019, while domestic production accounted for $1.1 billion. Productions such as Cardinal, Letterkenny, Hilda, Workin' Moms, Kim's Convenience and Star Trek: Discovery were shot in different parts of the province.
The jobs created included lighting technicians, makeup artists, carpenters, set designers, wardrobe experts, production managers and coordinators, location managers, performers and drivers.
In February, Ontario launched a pilot project to certify skilled workers with micro-credentials. The province also earmarked $19 million to create more hands-on learning opportunities for postsecondary students, recent graduates and apprentices for the auto manufacturing and advanced manufacturing industries.
