Owensboro will serve as a set for an upcoming Hallmark or Lifetime Christmas movie next week, and the production company is looking for extras. This comes as the state and local community look to capitalize on the Kentucky Entertainment Incentive (KEI) Program, which film professionals say is one of the best in the country.
A casting call for background actors has been announced for “The Christmas Pitch,” a family-friendly Christmas movie set to film in Owensboro from December 12-14.
The film, produced by Goldenrod Film and Television, tells the story of a marketing executive who returns to her hometown to save a beloved Christmas carnival, reigniting the holiday spirit. Background roles are open to individuals of all ages and genders, with no prior acting experience required.
Participants will receive on-set meals, and their names will be listed in the film credits. Interested individuals can apply by emailing [email protected] with a recent photo, contact information, and availability.
The KEI Program offers tax credits for productions and aims to attract film and entertainment projects to the state. The initiative’s primary goal is to foster local economic growth and establish Kentucky as a prime location for production.
Kristi Kilday, a veteran of the Los Angeles film industry and co-producer of “The Christmas Pitch,” praised the KEI Program as the best incentive in the country.
“This incentive is better than what’s offered in Georgia, often called Hollywood East,” Kilday said. “It’s a $250 million revenue stream for Kentucky and brings immense economic development to local communities.”
Kilday and her co-producer, Jeremy Winton, said they selected Owensboro for its vibrant community, charm at Christmas time, and strong support from local officials. The film will feature multiple locations, including the Edge Ice Center, Tanner+West, and Legends Sporting Goods.
“Owensboro goes all out for Christmas,” Winton said. “The city’s festive atmosphere and welcoming community made it a natural choice for our production.”
Kilton said film productions provide significant economic benefits for host cities, including increased tourism, job creation, and a boost to local businesses. The production of “The Christmas Pitch” will bring a 40-member cast and crew to Owensboro, generating revenue for hotels, restaurants, and other local establishments.
Claude Bacon, president and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, highlighted the long-term advantages of hosting film productions.
“Film production creates jobs, boosts tourism, and increases tax revenues while showcasing our local culture,” Bacon said. “At GOEDC, we’re eager to share Kentucky’s incentives with production companies nationwide, inviting them to make Owensboro their new home for filmmaking.”
Goldenrod Film and Television is planning additional projects in Kentucky for 2025, with Owensboro playing a key role. Kilday hopes to build a sustainable production infrastructure in the city, allowing for more films and television shows to be produced locally.
“We’re working to create a local workforce so that more productions can come here,” Kilday said. “Each project not only tells a story but also showcases Owensboro to a global audience.”
For more information on becoming a background actor, email [email protected].
