Warner Bros. Discovery’s ambitious plans to build a $8.5 billion studio complex in Nevada, touted as a transformative project for the state’s film and television production landscape, have hit a significant setback. The studio confirmed it has ended its partnership with Birtcher Development, the original developer for the project, though it remains committed to creating Warner Bros. Studios Nevada and is actively searching for a new development partner.

The studio, initially envisioned as a 34-acre complex in partnership with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), would serve as Warner Bros.’ third major studio hub alongside its iconic facilities in Burbank, California, and Leavesden, UK. The project was announced with great fanfare in 2024, hinging on a legislative proposal authored by Nevada State Senator Roberta Lange to expand film and TV tax incentives in the state. Despite the dissolution of the partnership with Birtcher Development, Warner Bros. emphasized its ongoing dedication to the project and its potential to drive job creation, workforce development, and economic growth for Nevada.

A Vision for Nevada’s Film Industry

Warner Bros. Studios Nevada was conceived as more than just a production facility—it was positioned as a cornerstone for Southern Nevada’s economic diversification and workforce development. Plans included a cutting-edge Nevada Media and Technology Lab at UNLV’s Harry Reid Research & Technology Park, which would integrate immersive learning opportunities for the university’s film department and academic programs. UNLV President Keith Whitfield described the project as “a big moment for UNLV and the State of Nevada,” aiming to place the university among the nation’s top-tier film schools.

The studio’s proposed $8.5 billion investment, amounting to $500 million in annual production spending over 17 years, promised to make Nevada a competitive hub for film and TV production. This included a focus on creating workforce pipelines for K-12 and higher education institutions, with a vision to train the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers.

The Shift in Development

The announcement that Warner Bros. is no longer working with Birtcher Development comes as a surprise, given the initial enthusiasm and progress on the project. Birtcher, which had been working alongside UNLV and Manhattan Beach Studios, expressed disappointment but reaffirmed its commitment to advancing other initiatives, including the Nevada Studios Media and Technology Lab.

Senator Roberta Lange, a staunch advocate of the project, acknowledged the challenges but reiterated her commitment to securing high-value partnerships that benefit Nevada’s citizens. The legislation underpinning the tax incentive framework will be revisited in February 2025, a crucial factor in determining the project’s viability.

Looking Ahead: A New Path Forward

Despite the setback, Warner Bros. remains optimistic about the future of the Nevada studio. “We are fully committed and excited about the potential of a long-term partnership and presence in Nevada,” said Simon Robinson, Chief Operating Officer of Warner Bros. Studios. The studio’s plans underscore its broader strategy to expand its global production capabilities, building on the success of its facilities in Burbank and Leavesden.

The project’s potential remains immense. By positioning itself as a hub for film, television, and workforce innovation, Nevada could become a key player in the industry, rivaling established production centers like Georgia and New Mexico. As Warner Bros. evaluates new partners, the state’s production community and legislative leaders remain hopeful that this game-changing vision will still come to fruition.