AGT abandons 21-year LA home, racing to Georgia, Nashville

**America’s Got Talent** is reportedly exploring options to film its upcoming season outside California, with Georgia and Nashville on the shortlist. The NBC competition, known for its high‑profile judges—Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara, Howie Mandel and Mel B—has been headquartered in Los Angeles for 21 seasons.

Production would follow a trend seen on other network franchises.

The change is driven largely by financial considerations. States such as Georgia offer larger production incentives and tax credits that could reduce the show’s overall budget. The potential savings have prompted producers to reassess the cost‑benefit of staying in Los Angeles versus moving eastward.

This move would align with a broader industry pattern. Fremantle, the production company behind AGT, already announced a shift of “American Idol” from L.A. to Georgia.

“The Masked Singer” has similarly planned a relocation to the East Coast after years of filming in Los Angeles, indicating a growing preference for states with more generous fiscal incentives.

## Production Incentives Drive Potential Move

The primary catalyst behind AGT’s potential relocation is the lure of tax credits offered by other states. These incentives can significantly lower production costs, especially for high‑budget shows that require extensive set construction and crew staffing.

With other major productions moving to locations like Georgia, AGT’s producers are examining whether a similar shift could yield comparable savings.

Fremantle’s recent decision to move “American Idol” to Georgia signals a strategic realignment toward regions that provide stronger financial support for large‑scale productions. By backing up the trucks for AGT, Fremantle would be following an established pattern within its own portfolio.

This approach could streamline logistics, as the company would already have infrastructure and expertise in place in the new location.

The judges—Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara, Howie Mandel and Mel B—have not publicly commented on the potential change. However, their continued involvement suggests that any move would aim to preserve the show’s format and production quality while addressing fiscal concerns.

## Industry Impact and Future Plans

The proposed exodus of reality‑TV productions from Los Angeles would have broader economic implications for the local entertainment sector. The city’s economy, which benefits from the influx of crew, talent, and related services during production periods, could feel a noticeable decline if key shows relocate.

Local officials are reportedly responding by urging the county to increase tax incentives in an effort to keep productions in the area.

Industry observers note that such moves could trigger a ripple effect, prompting other franchises to evaluate their own production locations. The shift might also influence hiring patterns, as crews could migrate toward states offering better financial incentives.

Meanwhile, production companies may use this period to renegotiate contracts and adjust budgets to accommodate changing tax environments.

If AGT confirms a move, the network would likely announce a new filming schedule shortly after. In the meantime, production staff and talent are expected to continue preparations for season 22 under the existing Los Angeles framework.

The decision’s final outcome will reveal how economic incentives shape the future landscape of televised competition shows.