'The Last of Us' filming brings over $141m to Alberta, supports 1,490 jobs

HBO's highly successful television adaptation of the popular video game series, "The Last of Us," has brought substantial economic benefits to Alberta, Canada. Beyond its massive audience, the production operation generated $141 million in local economic activity, supporting a total of 1,490 jobs and contributing over C$182 million to the province's GDP.

The first season of the show was shot across various locations throughout Alberta, from bustling cities to picturesque landscapes. This extensive filming operation, described as the largest television series ever filmed in Canada at the time, required the participation of over 180 filming locations spread across a distance of more than 1,000 kilometers. Local businesses, including construction companies, hotels, catering providers, and equipment suppliers, played a crucial role in supporting the production.

Approximately $71 million of the total spending went towards wages and salaries for local cast members, crew, and other production personnel. The remaining $70 million was directed towards various businesses operating across the province. These businesses ranged from those directly involved in the production, such as set construction and catering, to those providing goods and services to the workforce.

The economic impact of "The Last of Us" extended beyond the immediate spending on the production. The assessment estimated that the series generated over C$182 million in contributions to Alberta's GDP. This figure represented the broader economic activity generated by the project, including spending by businesses and workers connected to the production.

The success of the production also provided opportunities for Canadian creative professionals, with several members of the Canadian team receiving recognition through the show's 24 Emmy nominations. This international exposure not only highlighted Alberta's talent pool but also demonstrated the province's potential as a destination for high-profile productions in the future.

Moreover, the presence of the production had potential long-term benefits for the communities involved. The show's popularity has the potential to attract tourists to the filming locations, generating additional spending at local businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and attractions. While the 2023 assessment did not specifically quantify this tourism revenue, it highlighted the potential for increased economic activity in these areas.