L.A. reality TV production shoot days fall sharply in early 2026

5 articles · Updated · Los Angeles Times · Apr 28

Reality TV shoot days in Los Angeles dropped to 463 in Q1 2026, down 52.5% year over year and 33.7% from the previous quarter, according to FilmLA.
This decline reflects a broader contraction in the reality TV segment, with unscripted U.S. show premieres down 33% since 2022. Other production categories, like feature films and TV dramas, saw notable gains.
Tax credit-supported projects contributed to overall production growth, but total TV shoot days remain below last year. Industry leaders caution that significant work is needed to restore filming and jobs in the region.

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