More Hollywood Workers are Becoming White-Collar and College-Educated

The entertainment industry in Los Angeles is undergoing a significant transformation, according to a new report from Otis College of Art and Design. The study reveals that the workforce in L.A. County is increasingly white-collar and college-educated, with a rise in the percentage of creatives, managers, and specialists in the industry.

The report, titled “‘Die Another Day’— Hollywood transformed in the streaming era,” highlights the changing composition of entertainment workers in L.A. County. Between 2013 and 2022, the share of creatives and managers in the workforce increased, while the percentage of specialists also saw a rise. Additionally, the percentage of college-educated entertainment workers in L.A. County has jumped significantly over the years.

The study also delves into the changing landscape of college degrees held by entertainment workers, with a notable increase in business-related degrees. However, degrees in drama, theater arts, and communications have seen a decline. The report also points out the increasing ethnic diversity within the industry, with a decrease in the percentage of white workers and a rise in the percentage of Black and Hispanic workers.

Despite the changes in the entertainment industry, L.A. remains the top destination for film and TV production, with high-paying jobs and a concentration of skilled workers. The report emphasizes that while traditional parts of the industry have shrunk, other sectors like software publishing, independent artists, and live events have seen significant growth.

In conclusion, the report highlights the evolving nature of the entertainment industry in Los Angeles, noting that the industry is less dependent on traditional film and television studios and more focused on online content creation, live events, and gaming. Dr. Patrick Adler, principal of Westwood Economics and Planning Associates, emphasizes that working in Hollywood today is vastly different from a decade ago, reflecting the dynamic changes in the industry.