Advertisements showcasing Louisiana are seen by millions of viewers on several major cable networks: A&E, ABC, Discovery Channel, History Channel, MTV, Oxygen and TLC. But these aren’t the kind of commercials that tout the state’s growing high-tech industries or the fact that Louisiana has thrice been named the best place in the South for jobs and investment. Instead, they portray gator hunters in the swamp, a Goth-styled exterminator who chases hogs and possums, seven “bad girls” who live together in a New Orleans house, and some Baton Rougeans who build the biggest, baddest guns and knives around.
Reality shows filmed in Louisiana are flourishing on the small screen and made possible in part by efforts to lure the entertainment industry through tax credits and other incentives. Such programs have propelled the state onto a new world stage and transformed some of our residents into international stars. Does their notoriety affect the perspective of decision makers at companies considering Louisiana as a place to do business? Read the Business Report cover story here. Send comments to editors@businessreport.com.
Today’s poll question: Are Louisiana-based reality TV shows like ‘Swamp People’ and ‘Billy the Exterminator’ good or bad for the state’s image?
