Netflix’s “Virgin River” not only captivates audiences worldwide but also makes a significant impact in British Columbia.
From set decorators to sound editors, costume designers and more, the production spent $29.3 million on local wages and salaries and supported more than 390 talented British Columbians. The remaining $15.1 million was spent with a wide range of B.C. businesses on the purchase of local production-related goods and services like catering, lumber, equipment rentals and more. Season five alone supported more than 500 local businesses in communities across the province.
In addition to the direct economic impact of the production, popular series like “Virgin River” help showcase British Columbia to global audiences and can even attract film-induced tourists keen to explore local landscapes and locations. In the case of Virgin River, one such example is the Watershed Grill in Brackendale. Serving as the exterior inspiration for the show’s central gathering spot – Jack’s Bar – the grill has become a draw for thousands of fans from all over the world.
The series wrapped shooting its sixth season in B.C. earlier this year. Seasons one through five are available to stream on Netflix and the full 10-episode sixth season of “Virgin River” premieres on Netflix on December 19.
Read the full economic impact report here.
Descriptions and infographic courtesy of The Motion Picture Association – Canada. See the press release here.
