HBO’s acclaimed crime drama Task, starring Academy Award–nominated actor Mark Ruffalo, is officially returning for a second season — and it comes with historic financial backing. The project has received a record-breaking $49.8 million film tax credit from the state of Pennsylvania, marking the largest single production credit ever granted in the state’s history.
Massive Investment to Boost Local Economy
The Pennsylvania Film Office confirmed the unprecedented incentive, saying the production represents a strategic push to expand the state’s film and television industry. The tax credit program offers a 30% rebate to productions spending the majority of their budget locally, designed to attract major Hollywood projects.
State officials estimate that Season 2 of Task will create approximately 3,700 jobs and inject $194.1 million into the local economy through production spending, tourism, and long-term industry growth. Analysts say the economic ripple effect from such a large-scale production could reshape Pennsylvania’s entertainment landscape.
Production to Film Entirely in Southeastern Pennsylvania
Filming for Season 2 will take place entirely across Southeastern Pennsylvania, with scenes scheduled throughout Philadelphia and surrounding counties. This regional focus offers both authenticity and economic opportunity.
The show’s creator, Brad Ingelsby — a Chester County native known for Mare of Easttown — brings deep local perspective to the series. His familiarity with Pennsylvania communities supports the show’s emphasis on real, grounded storytelling rooted in setting.
Ingelsby’s creative direction aligns with the state’s goal to build a stronger production infrastructure that supports homegrown talent.
Mark Ruffalo Returns in Lead Role
Mark Ruffalo reprises his role as a determined FBI agent investigating a dangerous criminal network operating in suburban Pennsylvania. Season 2 continues the tense storyline involving a string of violent robberies linked to biker gangs, raising the stakes as the investigation intensifies.
The production is expected to rely heavily on local crews, vendors, and small businesses, fulfilling the tax credit’s requirement to maximize in-state economic participation.
A Growing Hub for Film and Television
Pennsylvania is positioning itself as a major competitor to established filming hubs like Georgia, New York, and California. In recent years, the state has seen an increase in both studio-scale projects and independent productions.
Officials hope the success of Task will strengthen the state’s reputation as a cost-efficient and artistically compelling filming location.
Industry observers say this historic tax credit could signal a long-term commitment to entertainment investment, drawing more studios and creating sustainable job pipelines for artists, production workers, and technical professionals.
A Win for the Region and the Industry
The collaboration between HBO and state leadership highlights how public incentives can drive private creative growth. For local communities, it means employment, tourism, and new economic activity. For viewers, it promises another gripping season of high-stakes storytelling.
The record-setting support for Season 2 demonstrates that Pennsylvania is serious about becoming a leading destination for film and TV — and Task may become the project that defines the next chapter of the state’s media evolution.
