AMC rethinks filming in Georgia

ATLANTA (AP) — The network behind a show that’s become part of Georgia’s pop-culture fiber says it will “reevaluate” its activity in the state if a new abortion law goes into effect.

“The Walking Dead” is an economic powerhouse and brings streams of tourists to the Georgia towns where it has been filmed.

AMC Networks calls the abortion legislation “highly restrictive” and says in a statement it will be closely watching what’s likely to be “a long and complicated fight” over the law. Georgia’s ban on virtually all abortions will take effect next year if it’s not blocked in the courts.

Hollywood’s threats to shun Georgia could cripple its booming film industry — and the ramifications could spread to other Southern states, observers say.

“There are a number of states that are passing laws that Hollywood will find intolerable, offensive and therefore make it impossible for them to work in those states,” said Tom Nunan, a moviemaker and lecturer at the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television.

“The South, if it’s largely viewed as a red part of our country, is essentially telling Hollywood to take their business elsewhere,” he said.

Georgia’s law is often referred to as a “heartbeat” law because it bans abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected.

AMC’s statement also mentions abortion bills in other states. That could put several states in what some observers have described as a “no-go zone” for TV and movie-making.

“Similar bills — some even more restrictive — have passed in multiple states and have been challenged. This is likely to be a long and complicated fight and we are watching it all very closely,” AMC said.

The specter of a lengthy legal battle makes it more likely that the issue isn’t going away anytime soon, said Nunan, a producer of the Academy Award-winning film “Crash.”

“This is going to be a prolonged battle that not only Hollywood companies but I suspect other major corporations are going to call into scrutiny,” he said.

Alabama lawmakers have passed legislation that would outlaw almost all abortions. It makes performing an abortion a felony punishable by up to 99 years or life in prison for the abortion provider. An exception would be allowed if the mother’s health is at serious risk.