Foreign filming in Toronto surges nearly 50%

Television production – on both foreign and domestic shows – was most dominant in the city in 2016, with spending in this category reaching just short of CA$910m. Visual effects and animation work rose by 180% over the year.

"The epic growth of our creative screen sector illustrates that Toronto is a compelling and competitive global production hub with a long-term, sustainable success story," said John Tory, mayor of Toronto.

"We're proud of Toronto's film and television industry and we want it to continue to grow. We will keep working with our industry partners so they have what they need to create jobs, attract talent and contribute to the economy."

Last month the mayor led a delegation to Los Angeles to offer reassurance to Hollywood executives about the long-term stability of Ontario’s filming incentive support. The delegation also addressed concerns about Toronto’s limited studio resources.

High-profile TV shows currently filming in Toronto include Kiefer Sutherland’s Designated Survivor and virus drama The Strain. New Star Trek series Discovery is scheduled to film at Pinewood Toronto Studios this year.

For more on filming in Ontario see our production guide.