Great news for fans of gritty crime dramas! Prime Video’s ‘Ballard’ is practically guaranteed a second season thanks to a massive California tax credit. With 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and impressive streaming numbers, this LAPD cold case thriller is proving to be a huge hit. What secrets will Detective Renée Ballard uncover next?
Anticipation is high for fans of gripping investigative tales as Prime Video’s acclaimed Ballard TV series has received a significant boost towards a highly probable Season 2 confirmed renewal. This development comes on the heels of impressive performance metrics and critical adoration, signaling a bright future for the Los Angeles-based crime drama.
The most compelling indicator for the show’s return is the substantial $14.84 million tax credit awarded by the California Film Commission for a potential second season. This substantial financial incentive dramatically increases the likelihood of a Prime Video renewal, making a pickup by Amazon MGM Studios almost a certainty.
Beyond the tax credit, ‘Ballard’ has built a strong case with its exceptional critical reception, boasting a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Its audience engagement has been equally robust, charting consistently on Nielsen’s weekly Top 10 for streaming originals. Notably, it recently secured the #4 spot with an impressive 619 million minutes streamed for the week of July 21, cementing its status as a breakout hit.
Industry practices reveal that TV studios typically apply for these valuable tax incentives for projects they have strong confidence in, often those already greenlit or firmly earmarked for production. The move by Amazon MGM Studios to secure this credit underscores their belief in the continued success and appeal of the Ballard TV series.
Inspired by the intricate works of bestselling author Michael Connelly Adaptation, ‘Ballard’ delves into the complex world of Detective Renée Ballard, portrayed compellingly by Maggie Q. She leads the LAPD’s new, yet underfunded, cold case division, tackling some of the city’s most challenging and long-forgotten crimes.
As Detective Ballard meticulously uncovers layers of cases spanning decades, including a chilling string of serial murders and the mystery of a murdered John Doe, she stumbles upon a dangerous conspiracy deeply embedded within the LAPD. Her journey is aided by her dedicated volunteer team and the seasoned wisdom of retired detective Harry Bosch, played by Titus Welliver.
The show not only delivers compelling narratives but also champions diverse, female-focused content, which continues to shine brightly on Prime Video’s trending TV lists. Its success, alongside other AAPI-led series, highlights a growing demand for inclusive storytelling within the streaming landscape.
Adding to its authenticity, the Amazon MGM Studios series extensively utilizes various iconic Los Angeles area locations. Viewers of the first season would recognize picturesque Venice Beach, the distinctive Paradise Cove trailer park in Malibu, the historic Union Station, and the grand Los Angeles City Hall, all contributing to the show’s rich cinematic backdrop.
