Lights, Camera, Action! A Hilarious Look at Filmed-in-Pennsylvania Shows
Pennsylvania: cheesesteaks, Liberty Bell, and...Hollywood East? That's right, the Keystone State is a filming hotspot for all sorts of TV shows. From gritty dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, there's something for everyone (except maybe those afraid of cheesesteaks – we don't judge).
What Shows Were Filmed In Pennsylvania |
From the City of Brotherly Love to the Steel City
Pennsylvania boasts diverse landscapes, making it a filming chameleon. Let's take a whistle-stop tour of some of the state's most famous filming locations:
- Philly Cheesesteak Dreams (and Nightmares): It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia isn't just a show, it's a love letter (or maybe a hate letter?) to the City of Brotherly Love. Prepare for outrageous antics set against the backdrop of the iconic cheesesteak haven.
- Murder, She Wrote...and Acted? Calling all sleuths! Did you know parts of Cold Case were filmed in Philadelphia? Maybe the cheesesteaks gave the detectives those brilliant hunches.
- Steel City Blues (with a Twist): Pittsburgh's industrial heart takes center stage in Justified, a show about a quick-draw marshal with a complicated past. Just don't ask him about his favorite Primanti Bros. sandwich (it might get messy).
Bonus: Catch glimpses of the Pennsylvania State Capitol in shows like Mindhunter, where they delve into the dark minds of serial killers (much less messy than a Primanti Bros. sandwich, thankfully).
From Mockumentaries to Reality (Maybe?)
Pennsylvania isn't just about scripted dramas. Reality TV (or is it?) has taken a bite out of the state too!
Tip: Reading in chunks improves focus.
- Dance Moms: Raising Stars...and Eyebrows: This show, filmed in the Pittsburgh area, documented the intense world of competitive dance. Just remember, winning isn't everything (but it sure makes a good reality TV moment).
- Farm Kings: Agricultural Royalty or Just Regular Farmers?: This show, filmed near Philadelphia, offered a glimpse into the lives of Pennsylvania's hardworking farmers. Did they find true love in the hayfields? We may never know (but it would make for great reality TV).
Important Note: While Dance Moms may not be entirely scripted (we can't confirm or deny anything!), It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia is definitely a work of fiction. Please don't try any of their...unique...money-making schemes at home.
So You Want to be the Next Big Hit Filmed in Pennsylvania?
Here are some FAQs to get you started on your filmmaking journey (in Pennsylvania, of course!):
How to Get a Filming Permit in Pennsylvania?
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
Check out the Pennsylvania Film Office website for all the need-to-know info.
How to Find Film Locations in Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania Film Office also has a handy dandy location library!
QuickTip: Read in order — context builds meaning.
How to Ace that Pennsylvania Cheesesteak Audition (if your show involves one)?
Practice your "Yo, Adrian!" impersonation. It might not translate perfectly, but hey, it shows dedication!
How to Deal with Overzealous Dance Moms (if your show accidentally attracts them)?
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
Run. Just run.
How to Avoid Getting Mistaken for a Reality TV Star While Filming Your Documentary?
Wear a name tag. Seriously.
So there you have it! Pennsylvania: a land of cheesesteaks, history, and surprisingly good TV. Who knows, maybe your next favorite show will be filmed there – just keep an eye out for dance moms and cheesesteak-obsessed lawyers.