New Jersey played a significant role in the early history of television, largely through the contributions of pioneering figures such as Allen DuMont and David Sarnoff who developed the technology and produced innovative programming.
Allen B. DuMont -. In 1931, DuMont, an electrical engineer, established DuMont Laboratories in Upper Montclair, where he developed the first commercially practical cathode ray tube. This invention provided a clearer and more reliable display mechanism. In 1946, he launched the DuMont Television Network, one of the earliest television networks in the United States. Although it ultimately folded in 1956 due to financial difficulties, it laid the groundwork for many practices and standards in television broadcasting. The DuMont Television Network was known for several pioneering firsts, including the broadcasting of professional football games and the creation of the first network news program, "The Walter Compton News."
The New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission was established in 1976 during the Byrne Administration. Many television shows and motion picture films have been filmed in New Jersey,[16][17][18] with incentives offered by the state.
When Governor Phil Murphy took office in 2018 he reinstated the New Jersey Film & Digital Media Tax Credit Program, which had been suspended by the previous administration. It was expanded in 2020. The benefits include a 30% tax credit on film projects and a 40% subsidy for studio developments.[19][20] Murphy signed legislation in January 2023 increasing the state's digital media content production tax credit to 35% of qualified expenses purchased through vendors in South Jersey and Mercer County. In addition, the bill increased the cumulative annual limitation on digital media content production tax credits from $10 million to $30 million. Beginning in fiscal year 2025, the bill also allows an additional $100 million in tax credits for New Jersey film-lease partners from tax credits authorized under other incentive programs.[21]
David Sarnoff - As the head of the Radio Corporation of America (RCA) and later the National Broadcasting Company (NBC), Sarnoff was instrumental in the commercialization and expansion of television as a mass medium. RCA was founded in 1919 as a subsidiary of General Electric to acquire and manage the American Marconi Company's assets, which included important radio patents and technology vital for national security and commercial purposes after World War I. RCA's corporate headquarters was in New York City, but it soon established in the 1920s a plant in Camden which became one of its earliest and most significant hubs for manufacturing and development. RCA acquired the Victor Talking Machine Company in 1929, which was headquartered in Camden, integrating it into RCA Victor--an acquisition which helped RCA consolidate its position in the radio and phonograph markets.David Sarnoff, a young executive who would become the president of RCA in 1930, oversaw Camden's role as the primary site for the production of RCA's radio sets, producing millions of radios, making RCA a household name in the United States. As RCA expanded into television, Camden produced some of the first commercially available television sets, helping to bring the new medium into American homes.
During World War II, the Camden plant was repurposed to support the war effort, producing military electronics and communication equipment. Under Sarnoff's leadership, in 1939 RCA introduced television to the American public at the New York World's Fair. The event included a speech by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the first sitting president to appear on television, marking a significant milestone in television history. By the 1970s and 1980s, however, the Camden facility faced increasing competition and shifts in manufacturing practices which led RCA to scale down its operations, eventually leading to the closure of the plant.
Sarnoff also oversaw the establishment of RCA’s research and development facilities in Princeton, which became a hub for television innovation, including the development of color television and other advancements in electron microscopy and semiconductor technology, laying the groundwork for the development of modern electronics and computing. In 1953, the Federal Communications Commission adopted RCA’s color television system as the standard for the United States. Additionally, W2XBS, an experimental station owned by RCA and located in New York City, conducted many of its early broadcasts from New Jersey.
In 1986, following cutbacks in production largely due to increasing competition form foreign companies utilizing lower-cost facilities, RCA was sold to General Electric (the firm which had founded RCA in 1919). GE, focused on streamlining operations, including reducing operations at both the Camden plant and the Princeton research and development activities.By the early 1990s, most of RCA's operations in Camden had been shut down or relocated. In 1988, the David Sarnoff Research Center was sold to SRI International, a nonprofit scientific research institute, which continued to operate the facility, m renamed as the Sarnoff Corporation until in 2011 it was fully integrated with SRI International under SRI's management, focusing on advanced research and technological development.
Early Television Productions in New Jersey New Jersey was home to some of the earliest television productions in the United States. The state’s proximity to New York City, the center of American broadcasting, made it an ideal location for early studios and production facilities.
One notable early production was "Captain Video and His Video Rangers," which premiered in 1949 on the DuMont Television Network. Produced in New York but broadcast through facilities in New Jersey, this show was one of the first science fiction television series and became extremely popular. The show followed the adventures of Captain Video, a heroic figure leading the Video Rangers, a group dedicated to fighting evil and protecting the galaxy. It is credited with innovating special effects despite its low budget and combining futuristic technology with moral lessons, appealing to both children and adults.
The DuMont Network also broadcast the earliest comedic sketch shows which evolved into "The Honeymooners"--one of the most enduring and beloved sitcoms in television history, and its origins. The show began as a series of sketches on the DuMont network's "Cavalcade of Stars," a variety show hosted by Jackie Gleason, who played the lead role of Ralph Kramden, a bus driver with big dreams and a quick temper. His wife, Alice, was portrayed by several actresses on DuMont, with Audrey Meadows becoming the most iconic in later episodes. The sketch format on "Cavalcade of Stars" allowed Gleason to develop and refine the characters and comedic dynamics that would later define "The Honeymooners." When Gleason moved to CBS in 1955, "The Honeymooners" transitioned into a stand-alone half-hour series depicting the everyday lives and humorous struggles of Ralph and Alice Kramden, along with their neighbors Ed and Trixie Norton. The chemistry between the actors and the relatable, comedic storytelling quickly made "The Honeymooners" a classic.
Other significant contributions by DuMont were the broadcasting of live sports, including professional football games, which helped establish television as a popular medium for sports entertainment, and the creation of the first network news program, "The Walter Compton News".
Notable Films Produced or Partially Set in New Jersey
"On the Waterfront" (1954): Classic film directed by Elia Kazan with music by Leonard Bernstein and starring Marlon Brando, Eva Marie-Saint and Rob Steiger, was set and filmed in Hoboken featuring mob influence on docks and unions. won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Brando.
Incentives for production of motion pictures and television shows in the state
New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission provides a range of services to assist productions, including location scouting, permit assistance, and liaison services with local communities and businesses to facilitate the production process within the state.
The Commission also assists in providing information on the range of incentives offered to attract production of motion pictures and television shows to the state.
Film and Digital Media Tax Credit Program
Productions can receive a tax credit of up to 30% of qualified production expenses, with an additional 5% bonus if the production is in a targeted area. To qualify, productions must spend at least 60% of their total production budget in New Jersey or incur more than $1 million in qualified production expenses in the state. An additional 2% tax credit is available for productions that meet certain diversity criteria in hiring and vendor practices.
Sales Tax Exemption
Purchases of certain tangible property and services used directly in the production of a film or television project are exempt from New Jersey's sales tax.
Current and Proposed Studios and Production Facilities in New Jersey
Cinilease Studios (Jersey City) State-of-the-art facility offering over 50,000 square feet of studio space, including sound stages, production offices, and post-production facilities, hosted a variety of television and film productions, contributing to the growth of the industry in northern New Jersey.
Studio 333(North Bergen) Established 2021, 2,700 square foot. warehouse production space made of two separate studios (Studio A & Studio B) which were designed by artists for artists to empower creative thinking and design at an affordable rate.
Welcome to our cutting-edge photography and videography studio in North Bergen, NJ! JOffers large sound stages and support spaces suitable for both film and television production. It is conveniently located near New York City, making it an attractive option for producers. Impact: The studio has been used for several high-profile projects, leveraging its proximity to major talent and production resources.
Bayshore Studio (Newark) Slated to become one of largest film studios in the state, a proposed project that aims to provide extensive production facilities, including sound stages, office spaces, and post-production services. Impact:
Lionsgate Newark Studio
Netflix, the global streaming giant, has announced plans to establish a major production facility in New Jersey, specifically at the site of the former Fort Monmouth military base. This ambitious project aims to transform the historic site into a state-of-the-art production hub, significantly enhancing New Jersey's capacity to host large-scale film and television productions.
Overview of the Proposal Location
Site: Fort Monmouth, New Jersey Area: The proposed facility will be situated on a 289-acre parcel of the former military base, utilizing existing structures and new constructions to create a comprehensive production campus. Development Plan
Facilities: The development will include sound stages, production offices, post-production facilities, and support spaces such as workshops and storage areas. Infrastructure: Plans also include the construction of new buildings and the renovation of existing structures to accommodate the needs of modern film and television production. Sustainability: Netflix has committed to incorporating sustainable practices and green building techniques into the development, aligning with its broader environmental goals. Investment and Economic Impact
Investment: Netflix is expected to invest around $848 million in the development of the facility, making it one of the largest investments in the state's film and television industry. Economic Impact: The project is anticipated to create thousands of jobs, both during the construction phase and in ongoing operations. It will provide employment opportunities for local talent and professionals in various fields, including production, logistics, and administration. Local Economy: The influx of production activity is expected to boost the local economy, benefiting businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and service providers in the surrounding areas. Benefits to New Jersey Job Creation
The facility will generate significant employment opportunities, from construction jobs during the development phase to permanent positions in production and administration once the facility is operational. Local film crews, actors, and other industry professionals will benefit from the increased demand for their skills and services. Economic Growth
The presence of a major Netflix production facility is expected to stimulate economic growth in the region, attracting related businesses and industries. The facility will drive tourism, as productions often draw visitors and fans to filming locations, further contributing to the local economy. Educational Opportunities
Netflix plans to collaborate with local educational institutions to create training programs and internships, helping to develop the next generation of film and television professionals. These initiatives will provide valuable hands-on experience and career pathways for students and young professionals in New Jersey.
The development will need to address potential concerns from local residents regarding traffic, noise, and environmental impacts. Netflix has pledged to work closely with local communities and stakeholders to ensure the project benefits all parties involved and mitigates any adverse effects. Regulatory Approvals
The project will require various regulatory approvals and permits from state and local authorities. Netflix is committed to complying with all regulatory requirements and working transparently throughout the approval process.
Location: Newark, NJ Overview: Lionsgate is developing a new studio complex in Newark, which will feature multiple sound stages, production offices, and other amenities. Impact: This high-profile project is set to attract significant film and television productions, enhancing Newark's reputation as a major production center New Jersey offers a range of incentives to attract the production of motion pictures and television shows to the state. These incentives are designed to encourage filmmakers and producers to take advantage of the state's diverse locations, skilled workforce, and proximity to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia. Here’s an overview of the key incentives, as well as current and proposed studios and production facilities in New Jersey: Incentives for Film and Television Production in New Jersey Current and Proposed Studios and Production Facilities in New Jersey
Netflix wants to transform Fort Monmouth into a state-of-the-art film and television production campus. The $903 million project includes 12 soundstages totaling nearly 500,000 square feet, along with production and office buildings. A hotel, cafeteria, helipad, theater, retail shops, studio trailer parks, water tanks for aquatic filming and visitor attractions are also planned. According to recent site plans, the infrastructure will include new roads, sidewalks, landscaping and stormwater systems. And the entire campus will be enclosed by a precast concrete wall monitored by security. The studio is expected to be one of Netflix’s largest, similar to the company’s 300-acre facility in Albuquerque, New Mexico. When will it be finished?Demolition at Fort Monmouth began May 2025 following the ceremonial groundbreaking, marking the start of a 13-month teardown of the aging Army buildings. Once demolition is complete, construction will move forward in two phases over the next few years. Phase one will focus on the 29-acre McAfee Zone, which spans Oceanport and about three acres of Eatontown. The area includes the 90,000-square-foot McAfee Center and a 1965 bowling alley, both slated for demolition. In total, 15 buildings will be cleared to make way for new facilities. The first phase of construction includes building four soundstages, converting the McAfee Center into studio offices and production support space, and constructing a warehouse and mill building. The buildings will not be open to the public and are intended for cast, crew and studio operations, according to planning documents. An artitst rendering of the Netflix new production facility at the groundbreaking ceremony at the former army base Fort Monmouth.Michael Dempsey | For NJ AdvancePhase two will include building the remaining eight soundstages, more production and office buildings, and visitor attractions. Under terms set by the Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority, the agency overseeing the site’s redevelopment, both phases must be completed within eight years of the land deal’s closing. Netflix expects the entire production campus to be finished by 2028, officials said. Who has approved the plan so far?Since announcing its proposal to build a production campus at Fort Monmouth, Netflix has received several key approvals at the state and local level. The first major approval came from the Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority in February 2024. Following a 45-day public comment period, the authority unanimously approved an amendment establishing zoning for the project, allowing the base to be reused as a studio under Netflix’s plans. The initial reuse plans were also signed off by Gov. Phil Murphy. By the end of 2024, both Jersey Shore towns where the studio will be located, Oceanport and Eatontown, approved Netflix’s phase one site plans. A second application, covering the remainder of the campus, will go before the Eatontown Planning Board in August. An artistic rendering of the proposed Netflix production facility at Fort MonmouthCourtesy of NetflixAre there any concerns about Netflix’s plans?Murphy and other state officials have been vocal supporters of Netflix’s planned production hub, calling it a catalyst for making New Jersey “the future of entertainment.” Still, there have been some local-level concerns throughout the approval process. Public meetings leading up to state and municipal sign-offs revealed a range of community worries, including traffic congestion, construction noise, building aesthetics and the potential impact on nearby wetlands. Some residents questioned whether the development would strain local emergency services. Others criticized Netflix’s plan for a concrete perimeter wall, with one Oceanport planning board member saying it clashed with Fort Monmouth’s historic character and should be built with brick instead. Despite the concerns, the project continues to advance, with Netflix and state officials highlighting its potential to create thousands of jobs and generate billions for New Jersey’s economy. New Jersey governor Phil Murphy (middle with glasses) breaks ground with first lady Tammy Murphy (on his right) Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos (on his left), New Jersey officials, and Netflix empolyees at Netflix's new production facility at the former NJ army base Fort Monmouth on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.Michael Dempsey | For NJ AdvanceIs the Netflix studio getting any tax breaks?Netflix is set to receive hundreds of millions in tax breaks as part of its plan to build a production studio on Fort Monmouth. The company will have access to a $150 million pool of incentives and a potential 40% tax credit through New Jersey’s Film and Digital Media Tax Credit program, according to the state Economic Development Authority. It has also been approved for up to $387 million in tax credits under the authority’s Aspire program, which supports large-scale development projects with long-term economic benefits. In exchange, Netflix has committed to operating the studio in New Jersey for at least 10 years. According to state officials, the production campus will create more than 3,500 construction jobs and employ about 1,400 people once operational. Over 20 years, the studio is projected to contribute between $3.8 billion and $4.6 billion to New Jersey’s economy, state officials said. At the groundbreaking last month, Murphy said “good-paying jobs are soon to follow” as construction begins. “As we begin building the 12 state-of-the-art soundstages that will anchor this facility, we’ll rely on New Jersey’s construction workers to get the job done,” Murphy said. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nyah Marshall may be reached at [email protected] If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
