By Nellie Andreeva

LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - ABC's "Ugly Betty" is expected to relocate to New York this coming season. The comedy-drama, starring America Ferrera, is set in the Big Apple but had been filming in Los Angeles for its first two seasons.


Key to producer ABC Studios' decision to make the move is New York state's recent decision to triple its tax credit for film and TV productions to 30 percent, with New York City offering an additional 5 percent credit.

This will be "Betty's" second cross-country move. The pilot was filmed in New York, but production was shifted to the West Coast after a Big Apple shoot was deemed too expensive.

Because of the relocation, about 150 crew members on "Betty" will lose their jobs, but most are expected to be reassigned to other ABC Studios shows based in Los Angeles. The relocation of the cast is not expected to be a problem because the majority of the actors used to live in New York.

The "Betty" writers are expected to remain on the West Coast. Production on "Betty's" third season is slated to begin in July.

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter
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