Hollywood Workers Transitioning to Creator Economy

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A shift towards the creator economy: collaboration in a digital media environment.

News Summary

Los Angeles is experiencing a shift as Hollywood workers increasingly transition to the creator economy amid job cuts in traditional media. Dhar Mann Studios expands its workforce, reflecting a broader trend where traditional entertainment roles are evolving into opportunities in digital content creation. The creator economy is projected to grow significantly, offering new career paths for those with creative skills, while traditional sectors face declines. This transformation underscores a pivotal moment in the entertainment landscape.

Los Angeles is witnessing a significant shift as traditional Hollywood workers transition to the growing creator economy in response to a shrinking job market. With many legacy studios consolidating and laying off employees, entertainment industry workers are increasingly seeking opportunities within the digital space, particularly on platforms like YouTube and social media. This shift is being driven by a desire for creativity and the new potential for job security offered by these emerging markets.

Dhar Mann Studios, known for producing family-friendly dramas on multiple platforms, is at the forefront of this transition. The company has plans to expand its staff, adding 15 full-time positions to its existing 75 employees. This move reflects a broader trend, as Pave Studios located in Sherman Oaks is also hiring, increasing its workforce by 16 full-time employees from its current team of 67.

The current environment for traditional television and film sectors is grim. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in these sectors within Los Angeles County has shrunk by 27%, with only 108,564 jobs remaining. This decline is mirrored by a rise in the creator economy, which has seen a 5% increase in employment, bringing the total number of creative workers in Los Angeles to approximately 70,012 from 2022 to 2024, as reported by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation.

As traditional programming budgets have declined, particularly after the 2023 strikes, many former Hollywood employees are moving towards roles that support YouTube creators and digital media companies. YouTube itself has transformed into a major entertainment force, accounting for 12.5% of U.S. television viewing as of May 2025. The platform now supports over 490,000 jobs in its creative ecosystem, a notable increase of 60,000 from the previous year.

Creative roles are in high demand within the creator economy, with positions such as video editors and thumbnail designers frequently offering six-figure salaries. The hiring platform Roster reports a nearly 80% surge in employers looking to fill Creator Economy positions from January to June 2025. However, applicants often face significant competition, as job applications for these roles typically require candidates to complete creative challenges to demonstrate their skills and talents.

Freelance and part-time roles are prevalent in this new landscape, with many positions being temporary rather than full-time. This change in employment structure reflects a broader evolution in the financial landscape for traditional media workers, who are increasingly viewing roles in the creator economy as valid career pathways. Many companies are starting to recognize the potential of creator-led shows and are forming collaborations between traditional media and influencer-driven projects.

The impact of this trend is substantial, with the creator economy projected to be worth half a trillion dollars by 2027. This growth heralds new opportunities for job seekers, particularly those with an inclination for creativity and digital content creation. Sean Atkins, CEO of Dhar Mann Studios, has drawn parallels between today’s industry atmosphere and the chaotic but innovative environment that characterized the early days of Hollywood. As digital platforms continue to reshape the entertainment industry, Hollywood workers are adapting to new norms and seizing opportunities that align with their creative aspirations.

As the creator economy continues to gain momentum, the future for former Hollywood employees looks increasingly promising as they navigate away from traditional roles toward dynamic and innovative careers in digital media.