The new eight-part documentary series You Belong Here, which highlights Kentucky’s culinary culture and the communities it brings together, is bringing global attention to the Kentucky General Assembly’s decision to invest in the state’s film and television industry.
You Belong Here showcases the commonwealth and four Kentucky-based projects at the Tribeca Film Festival, which is another significant step in expanding the state’s film and television business. It features The Wrigley, a well-known Corbin restaurant owned by Kristin Smith. The series, which was executive produced by famed local chef Ouita Michel, actor Steve Zahn, and director Rick Gomez, was made feasible in part by new laws that aimed to boost the growth of the creative industries throughout the Commonwealth.
Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, stated that Kentucky’s farm-to-table initiative, as showcased in You Belong Here, is a national success story, supported by more than $300 million in strategic investment and honored at the esteemed Tribeca Film Festival. We are overcoming the gap between urban and rural areas and enhancing Kentucky’s potential for global recognition and more visitors. These accomplishments weren’t the product of luck; rather, they are the consequence of deliberate policy, strong teamwork, and a common vision for Kentucky’s future.
Local tourism offices in Corbin, Somerset, Lexington, Louisville, Northern Kentucky, Bowling Green, Paducah, and Owensboro, as well as the Kentucky Department of Tourism, have joined forces to promote Kentucky’s increasing appeal as a destination for filmmakers and other creatives.
According to VisitLEX President Mary Quinn Ramer, “Bringing You Belong Here to life was a tremendous opportunity to showcase Kentucky tourism through the lens of food, culture, and genuine Kentucky hospitality with one of our state’s greatest ambassadors, Ouita Michel.” In order to help Lexington, the surrounding area, and the state expand and improve our standing as a location that can support a flourishing film and television business, our elected representatives in Frankfort have given us incredible support and investment.
You Belong Here was chosen to participate in panels at the ATX Television Festival in Austin and Tribeca X in New York City, where Kentucky’s film sector was highlighted as a growing force in the country’s media landscape.
You Fit In “This project comes from my heart,” Ouita Michel stated. It tells the tale of everything and everyone I care about, including our farmers and rural communities, our connections to the farm, and the amazing chefs across our Commonwealth. We want the world to hear this love song to Kentucky so they can see our commonwealth for themselves.
According to Michel, Tribeca provided us with amazing access to creative community decision-makers and the opportunity to demonstrate our abilities in Kentucky. It’s a significant advancement for our expanding production sector.
Locally, the state’s backing has sparked neighborhood initiatives such as FilmLEX, which was started in October 2024 as a result of a collaboration between VisitLEX and the city administration of Lexington. Its goal is to draw in film productions by promoting the Kentucky Entertainment Incentive Program.
You Fit In FilmLEX Lead Lisa Brin noted, “This is proof of concept that Lexington is more than just a backdrop.” It’s a location where filmmakers are genuinely seen and where story and spirit meet.
In 2024, Kentucky welcomed almost 80 million visitors, supporting approximately 97,000 employment and creating $14.3 billion in economic effect. In order to develop the tourism sector, generate employment, and draw in talent, the film and television industries are essential.
In order to support the expansion of the state’s film and entertainment sector, the General Assembly established the Kentucky Office of Film and Development in 2025 through Senate Bill (SB) 1, which was sponsored by Senator Phillip Wheeler, R-Pikeville. The Kentucky Entertainment Incentive Program, which was improved in 2021 by House Bill 249, co-sponsored by Rep. Jason Petrie, R-Elkton, and former Rep. Brandon Reed, R-Hodgenville, would be administered and monitored by this office, which is now under the Cabinet for Economic Development. That law set a three-year deadline for projects to apply for credits and complete production, and it capped yearly film incentives at $75 million. Although it has one of the best incentive programs in the nation, Kentucky was not adequately promoted as a film and television production destination.
The executive director of the Kentucky Film Office will be in charge of hiring employees, hiring outside contractors, and managing day-to-day operations. The office will promote Kentucky as a top film production destination, expedite the permits process, and collaborate closely with regional and municipal film offices and tourism commissioners. In addition, it will help production firms navigate the Kentucky Entertainment Incentive Program and cooperate with training programs and film studios to produce a qualified workforce.
Senate President’s Office
