NEW ORLEANS — There are growing concerns in the local movie industry after the longtime head of the New Orleans Film Office was let go by the Mayor LaToya Cantrell administration with no explanation as to why.
Leaders in the business called Carroll Morton a trusted colleague and say her sudden departure comes as a potential major blow to Hollywood South.
“Her passion and commitment to the job as well as her connections in the industry, I just have no idea why they would want to replace her,” said Sidney Torres III.
Torres, an attorney in Chalmette owns The Ranch film studio.
He is disappointed by Morton’s unexpected dismissal.
Torres says she was part of a delegation marketing Hollywood South at the Cannes Film Festival last month.
“She was a leader in Cannes to promote the movie industry here in Louisiana,” Torres said. “I saw her interacting with producers and investors and people who are involved in the movie industry who have been dealing with her for a long time.”
Rhys Williams is a location manager for local TV and film production.
“I think everybody was caught off guard,” Williams said. “Carroll has been a lovely person to work with.”
Williams says Morton will be hard to replace especially as the local film industry is on the verge of picking back up after a tough year.
“I think everybody wants to make sure that there’s someone that’s knowledgeable and experienced in dealing with the neighborhoods and dealing with the productions and making sure that LA wants to film in New Orleans, LA,” Williams said.
Louisiana is the fourth largest production hub in the country with a $350 million payroll and a billion dollars in sales every year.
“I can encourage those in government in New Orleans who have not talked to the people in the movie industry that they very well should and listen very carefully,” Torres said.
Carroll Morton told us she did not wish to provide a statement at this time.
The city declined to give details about Morton’s departure, but in a statement said, “Carroll Morton will no longer serve in the role as the Director of Film New Orleans, the City’s film office. The City of New Orleans thanks Ms. Morton for her years of service, and we extend our very best wishes for her future endeavors.”
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