Movie director Rob Reiner—responsible for such hit movies as "When Harry Met Sally," "A Few Good Men," and "Stand By Me," among many others—has decided to stop making movies in North Carolina unless the state repeals its anti-LGBT law.
The newly signed law prohibits local municipalities from creating their own ordinances that would allow people to use public bathrooms and locker rooms based on their sexual orientation and gender identity.
"Until this hateful law is repealed and LGBT North Carolinans are treated with the equal dignity they deserve, I will not film another production in North Carolina, and I encourage my colleagues in the entertainment industry to vow to do the same," Reiner said in a statement Friday, according to NBC News.
The law was signed on Wednesday by Gov. Pat McCory, and it is expected to take effect on April 1.
Reiner's move is supported by the Motion Picture Association of America. Its official said on Thursday that studios oppose "any law that legitimises discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression."
Many other high-profile personalities and organisations have also denounced the new North Carolina law. For instance, ESPN, which was considering North Carolina for the summer X Games, is now thinking of holding the venue someplace else. It said in a statement Friday: "At ESPN, we embrace diversity and inclusion and will evaluate all of our options as we seek a new city for the X Games."
The NBA has also made a similar move against the "discriminatory law." It said the law contradicts the league's values and could affect the planned 2017 All-Star Game in Charlotte.
The NCAA, which has 2017 and 2018 tournament games planned in North Carolina, also said it is waiting to see what would happen amid the mounting criticism against the law. "It is our expectation that all people will be welcomed and treated with respect in cities that host our NCAA championships and events," the NCAA said.
