The Big Screen on the Small Screen: Your Guide to NYC T.V.
Ah, New York City. The city that never sleeps, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of... and also where a whole bunch of TV shows are filmed! Whether you're a die-hard New Yorker or just someone who enjoys a good show with a side of yellow cab, this post is your one-stop guide to the hottest small-screen productions filmed in the Big Apple.
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| What Shows Are Filmed In New York |
Lights, Camera, Action! Iconic NYC Shows
New York is basically a character in itself for some shows. Here are a few classics that wouldn't be the same without the city's iconic backdrop:
QuickTip: Look for lists — they simplify complex points.
- Law & Order: Entire Franchise. Bada-bing, bada-boom! This legal drama empire has been serving up justice (and dramatic district attorneys) with New York City streets as its witness for decades.
- Seinfeld. No hugging, no learning! This "show about nothing" perfectly captured the quirky charm and social awkwardness of New Yorkers in the 90s.
- Friends. We were on a break! Central Perk anyone? This sitcom may have been shot mostly on a set, but who can forget the iconic exterior shots of the gang hanging out by the fountain?
- 30 Rock. Liz Lemon, you ignorant slut! This hilarious peek behind the scenes of a sketch comedy show had us laughing (and maybe a little scared) about the crazy world of television, all with a distinctly New York vibe.
Beyond the Tourist Traps: Hidden Gems
Not all NYC shows are filmed in the usual Times Square spots. Here are a few hidden gems to add to your watchlist:
Tip: Use this post as a starting point for exploration.
- Broad City. Yaaas Queen! This outrageous comedy followed two best friends navigating their twenties in Brooklyn, showcasing the hipper, more alternative side of the city.
- High Maintenance. Everything is rent! This quirky web series (now a show on HBO) takes a character-driven approach, with each episode focusing on a different New Yorker and their, well, high maintenance needs.
- Girls. A voice of a generation... or at least a very specific subgroup of that generation. Lena Dunham's show wasn't for everyone, but it definitely captured the messy, post-grad experience of young women living in Brooklyn.
**_Pro Tip: Want to see a show being filmed? Keep an eye out for location shoots in your neighborhood. You might just brush shoulders with your favorite celebrity (or at least a very enthusiastic production assistant)!
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
How to Spot a Filming Location in NYC: A Not-So-Serious Guide
- Look for the sea of trailers. These metal behemoths parked on random streets are a dead giveaway.
- Spot the clusters of confused tourists. If a group of people are standing around looking mildly lost, they might be gawking at the stars (or just trying to figure out why their favorite street is suddenly closed).
- Hear the shouts of the Assistant Director. They're the ones with the bullhorns yelling things like "QUIET ON SET!" or, more likely in NYC, "Can someone please move their illegally parked Vespa?"
FAQ: You Asked, We Answered (Sort Of)
How to become a background actor on a NYC show?
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
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- Stand outside Central Perk for 12 hours a day with a hopeful expression.
How to avoid getting stuck in a TV shoot?
- Learn pigeon chess. If you can beat a bored-looking extra, they might let you pass.
How to impress your friends with your knowledge of NYC T.V. trivia?
- Did you know the bodega across the street from Jerry's apartment in Seinfeld was actually a falafel shop in real life? Mind. Blown.
How to convince your significant other that watching reruns of Sex and the City is educational?
- It's a historical document on the evolution of Carrie Bradshaw's shoe collection. Educational and inspiring!
How to find out what shows are currently filming in NYC?
- Actually, this one might be helpful. Check out websites like On Location Tours for info on location shoots and tours.
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