Mark Wahlberg, a prominent film star and recent Las Vegas resident, is poised to become a direct owner in a proposed massive Sony Studios project in Las Vegas. Howard Hughes Holdings CEO David O’Reilly confirmed Wahlberg’s potential involvement, highlighting his strong advocacy for local talent. Currently, Wahlberg is filming “The Family Plan 2” in London and Nevada, continuing his influence in the region.
The Nevada Legislature recently introduced Senate Bill 238, which would provide $80 million in annual transferable tax credits for a studio project with a required $400 million investment. Sony and Howard Hughes propose a 31-acre studio site in Summerlin. This is one of two bills under consideration; the other, Assembly Bill 238, involves a project at UNLV’s Harry Reid Research and Technology Park with $83 million in tax credits, in partnership with The MBS Group.
These initiatives could significantly impact the local entertainment workforce, potentially creating up to 15,000 permanent jobs and boosting wages. The proposed Sony Studios project would include sound stages, back lots, and various production facilities, enhancing the region’s appeal as a filming destination.
The announcement coincided with the National Arts Advocacy Summit, organized by The Creative Coalition. The summit, attended by industry figures like Tim Daly and actors including LeVar Burton and Amy Brenneman, aimed to promote support for the arts in the U.S. Daly emphasized the arts’ economic and emotional value, advocating for increased public funding and support. The summit set the stage for future advocacy efforts, including plans to engage with leaders in Washington, D.C.