‘Michael’ Sequel Among 35 Films Approved for California Tax Incentive

Lionsgate’s upcoming sequel to the highest grossing biopic of all time, “Michael,” headlined the latest batch of 35 films approved for California’s production incentive program.

The California Film Commission estimated on Tuesday that this round of film projects will employ 30,000 cast, crew and background actors and bring $1.08 billion in combined production spending to the state.

“California is the home of entertainment, full stop. We’re not just protecting that legacy; we’re investing in its future by expanding our film and television tax credit, launching a new post-production credit and standing up for performers in the age of AI,” said California Gov. Gavin Newsom in a statement. “We’re making sure independent filmmakers and the next generation of storytellers and creators have a real shot to build, hire and produce right here in California. More productions, more good jobs, more California stories told by California workers.”

Along with the “Michael” sequel, which is expected to be directed by Antoine Fuqua with Jaafar Jackson returning in the lead role, New Line’s upcoming legacy sequel to Ice Cube’s “Friday” films was also approved for the tax credit.