Netflix To Reconsider Its Business In Georgia Over Abortion Law – Is It Going To Affect Legislators’ Mind?

Although numerous actors raised voice against Georgia’s new strict abortion law, many of the most powerful production companies opted to stay aside.

Netflix was the first one to break the silence. Ted Sarandos, its chief content officer, published an official announcement Tuesday to point out that Netflix would “rethink its entire investment in Georgia” if the proposed legislation turns into state law.

The legislation, widely known as “heartbeat bill” has passed state legislatures would make illegal abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected, normally as early as six weeks. The law enters into force in 2020, leaving room for legal challenges that could either block or delay it.

Netflix announced it would work closely with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) to take the bill to court, Sarandos confirmed. He also emphasized that since the law has not entered into effect, the streaming giant would continue working in Georgia.

At the same time, Sarandos highlighted the company would continue supporting its female colleagues and artists who choose not to.

Earlier in spring, over 100 film actors and actresses working in Georgia, signed a petition initiated by Alyssa Milano to oppose the heartbeat bill. The Hollywood starts also threatened to stop working in the state if the proposed law enters into force. In addition to that, they suggested the movie industry to move to another place that is safer for women.

Unions including the WGA and SAG-AFTRA also went vocal against the bill.

‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ director Reed Morano and the Oscar-nominated writers of ‘Bridesmaids,’ Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo, canceled plans to work in Georgia after Gov. Brian Kemp signed the bill in May.

Numerous actors, including the “Titanic” star Frances Fisher, joined the protest of local women and picketed on the steps of Atlanta City Hall last month.

At the same time, some big production companies confirmed they would proceed with their filming plans in Georgia but will donate profits to groups combating the law.

Among them are HBO’s J.J. Abrams and Jordan Peele who will continue making their horror series ‘Lovecraft County’ in Georgia. The same goes for Chernin Entertainment which would keep filming the ‘Fear Street’ in the state.

The Hollywood movie industry has planted deep roots in the Peach State due to the favorable tax conditions. In 2008, Georgia established a 30% tax rebate, which made many industry workers migrate from California to the South.

The expansive Pinewood Atlanta Studios are home to dozens major Hollywood productions such as ”Black Panther” , ”The Hunger Games”, and more.

What do you think? Do you support or oppose Netflix decision to enter the battle against the abortion law in Georgia?