Quick Read
- Mark Ruffalo stars as an FBI agent in HBO’s crime drama ‘Task’ season 2.
- The series will be filmed entirely in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
- Pennsylvania granted a record $49.8 million tax credit to the production.
- The project is expected to create 3,700 jobs and inject $194.1 million into the local economy.
- ‘Task’ is created by Chester County native Brad Ingelsby.
Mark Ruffalo Returns to Lead HBO’s ‘Task’ Season 2 in Pennsylvania
For fans of crime dramas and authentic storytelling, the return of Mark Ruffalo as the lead in HBO’s ‘Task’ is big news. But this season, the story isn’t just unfolding on screen. It’s being shaped by the landscape and people of Southeastern Pennsylvania, thanks to a record-breaking state tax credit that’s turning Hollywood’s spotlight eastward.
Pennsylvania’s Bold Investment: $49.8 Million Tax Credit for ‘Task’
The Pennsylvania Film Office announced this week that the state is investing a staggering $49.8 million in the second season of ‘Task’—the largest tax credit ever granted to a single Hollywood production in Pennsylvania. This incentive doesn’t just sweeten the deal for HBO; it’s expected to create 3,700 jobs and inject more than $194 million into the local economy, as reported by WHYY.
Film Commissioner Gino Anthony Pesi underscored the impact, saying, “Supporting productions like TASK have a powerful impact on Pennsylvania’s creative economy through the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs, while also giving new opportunities to local businesses in the southeastern region.” The state’s Film Production Tax Program offers up to a 30% tax break to productions that spend at least 60% of their budget within Pennsylvania, aiming to draw more national and international projects to the region.
Authenticity and Community: Filming in Southeastern Pennsylvania
The new season will be shot entirely in the southeastern corner of the state, from the bustling streets of Philadelphia to its surrounding suburbs. For series creator Brad Ingelsby, a Chester County native, this is more than just a practical decision—it’s a personal one. “I’m deeply grateful that I get to tell stories about characters from this very specific part of the country while working alongside the wonderful people who also call Pennsylvania home,” Ingelsby shared.
The locations aren’t just backdrops. They add a layer of authenticity that’s hard to fake. Janet Graham Borba, executive vice president of HBO production, emphasized, “The locations in and around Philadelphia add an invaluable level of authenticity to the series.” This means viewers can expect local landmarks and the distinct energy of Pennsylvania to flavor every episode, setting ‘Task’ apart from generic crime dramas filmed on soundstages.
Mark Ruffalo’s Role and the Story Behind ‘Task’
Mark Ruffalo, known for his nuanced performances in both blockbuster films and indie projects, reprises his role as an FBI agent determined to stop a series of biker-gang related robberies in the Philadelphia suburbs. The series, written by Ingelsby, weaves together the region’s unique character and real-world challenges with gripping drama.
Ruffalo’s involvement isn’t just a celebrity headline—it’s a sign of the show’s ambition. By anchoring the series with a respected, award-winning actor, HBO is betting on both critical acclaim and wide audience appeal. For Pennsylvania, it’s a chance to showcase local talent, landscapes, and culture on a national stage.
Economic Ripple Effects: Beyond the Set
The benefits of ‘Task’ season 2 extend far beyond the cast and crew. State officials estimate that the production will create 3,700 jobs—not only in film, but also for local businesses supporting the project. From catering and equipment rental to transportation and hospitality, the economic ripple effects are substantial.
With $194.1 million projected to flow into the state’s economy, local communities stand to gain. The tax credit isn’t just a windfall for Hollywood; it’s a strategic investment in Pennsylvania’s creative industries and workforce. As Commissioner Pesi noted, the partnership with HBO signals a commitment to growing the state’s film and TV sector for years to come.
A Model for Future Productions
Pennsylvania’s aggressive pursuit of film and TV projects is paying off. The region has recently hosted productions like Netflix’s “Tires” starring Shane Gillis, and Apple TV’s miniseries “Dope Thief.” Each new project strengthens the state’s reputation as a viable alternative to traditional filming hubs like New York or Los Angeles.
The Film Production Tax Program’s requirements—that productions must be made for a national or international audience and spend the majority of their budgets locally—are designed to maximize impact. It’s a model that other states are watching closely as they look to attract big-budget productions.
Community Response and Creative Opportunity
For residents of Southeastern Pennsylvania, the arrival of ‘Task’ is more than just a chance to spot familiar streets on TV. It’s an opportunity for local actors, technicians, and businesses to work alongside a major studio. The partnership between state officials, HBO, and local communities highlights the potential for creative industries to drive economic growth and foster regional pride.
As the cameras roll and the production gears up, the excitement in Pennsylvania is palpable. Saturdays, as WHYY quips, “just got more interesting.”
Analysis: Mark Ruffalo’s starring role in ‘Task’ season 2 is more than a Hollywood headline—it’s emblematic of a strategic alliance between entertainment and economic development in Pennsylvania. The record-setting tax credit, thousands of new jobs, and local authenticity signal a growing confidence in the region’s creative sector. If successful, this model could redefine how states compete for major productions, blending art and economy in ways that benefit both filmmakers and communities.