18 Things You Didn’t Know About Hit TV Shows
TV shows often have secrets behind the scenes. Some facts are funny, while others are shocking. Here are 18 surprising stories about your favorites.
1. The Central Perk Couch in “Friends” Was Found in a Basement
The famous orange couch in “Friends,” a centerpiece of many memorable scenes, was actually discovered in the basement of the Warner Bros. studio. This piece of furniture was not specially made for the show but serendipitously found and became an iconic symbol of the series.
2. “The Simpsons” Has a Consistently Inconsistent Set
In the animated world of “The Simpsons,” the layout of the Simpsons’ house changes frequently. This inconsistency is intentional, designed to keep the focus on the characters and the story rather than the setting. It’s a creative choice that adds a unique dynamic to the show.
3. “Game of Thrones” Used a Real Castle for Winterfell
The Stark family home, Winterfell, in “Game of Thrones,” was filmed at Castle Ward in Northern Ireland. The production team chose this location for its authentic medieval architecture, which added realism and grandeur to the fictional world of Westeros.
4. “Breaking Bad” Had a Rolling Meth Lab
The RV used as a meth lab in “Breaking Bad” was fully functional in terms of its layout and equipment. This attention to detail helped actors immerse themselves in their roles, making the scenes inside the RV more convincing.
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5. “Stranger Things” Creates the ’80s Vibe with Authentic Decor
The set designers of “Stranger Things” go to great lengths to source authentic ’80s decor and gadgets. From vintage wallpaper to period-appropriate technology, every item on set helps to authentically recreate the era, contributing to the show’s nostalgic appeal.
6. “Mad Men” Offices Were Inspired by Real 1960s Ads
The sleek and stylish offices in “Mad Men” were inspired by actual advertisements from the 1960s. The production designer studied period ads to capture the essence of the era’s corporate culture, resulting in a set that feels both authentic and stylish.
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7. “The Big Bang Theory” Had a Functional Elevator Off-Screen
While the broken elevator was a running joke in “The Big Bang Theory,” there was a fully functional elevator used off-screen for moving equipment and set pieces. This behind-the-scenes detail was key to the smooth operation of the show’s production.
8. “Downton Abbey” Blends a Real Castle with Studio Sets
“Downton Abbey” is filmed at Highclere Castle, but not all scenes are shot on location. Some interior scenes are filmed on studio sets, seamlessly integrated with the real castle interiors to maintain the show’s visual consistency.
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9. “The Office” Set Included a Real Working Office
The set of “The Office” was designed as a real working office, complete with functioning computers and phones. This realistic setup allowed the actors to immerse themselves more deeply into their characters’ office life.
10. “Gilmore Girls” Town Was Inspired by a Real Village
The charming town of Stars Hollow in “Gilmore Girls” was inspired by the real village of Washington Depot, Connecticut. The show’s creator visited the village and felt it captured the essence of a quaint New England town, leading to the creation of the fictional Stars Hollow.
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11. “Lost” Used an Aircraft Set Piece from a Real Plane
For the crash scenes in “Lost,” the production team used a decommissioned aircraft. This real set piece added authenticity to the crash site scenes, making them more impactful and believable.
12. “Seinfeld” Apartment Changed Sizes for Different Scenes
Jerry’s apartment in “Seinfeld” was modified throughout the series, with walls that could be moved to accommodate different camera angles. This flexibility allowed for a variety of shots and scenes to be filmed in the same space.
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13. “The Crown” Recreated Buckingham Palace Interiors
For “The Crown,” the production team meticulously recreated the interiors of Buckingham Palace. This ambitious endeavor involved extensive research and craftsmanship to ensure the set accurately reflected the royal residence.
14. “Twin Peaks” Diner Is a Real Location
The diner in “Twin Peaks” is a real place called Twede’s Cafe in North Bend, Washington. The cafe became famous thanks to the show and still operates, attracting fans of the series.
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15. “Sex and the City” Used a Brownstone Facade for Carrie’s Apartment
Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment in “Sex and the City” was filmed using the exterior of a brownstone in New York City. However, all interior scenes were shot on a studio set designed to replicate the inside of a New York brownstone.
16. “Doctor Who” TARDIS Interior Changed with Technology
The interior of the TARDIS in “Doctor Who” has evolved over the years, reflecting changes in technology and design trends. Each iteration of the TARDIS interior mirrors the current era of the show, adding a dynamic element to the iconic time machine.
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17. “Frasier” Apartment Was Designed to Reflect Character
The apartment in “Frasier” was carefully designed to reflect the main character’s personality and taste. The set included high-end furnishings and art, emphasizing Frasier’s sophistication and cultural interests.
18. “Sherlock” Used London Locations for Authenticity
The modern adaptation of “Sherlock” was filmed at various locations around London to capture the city’s authentic vibe. This approach added a sense of realism to the show, grounding the fictional detective in a real-world setting.
15 Critically Acclaimed TV Shows You Can’t-Miss
Some TV shows are so well-made that they earn critical acclaim, becoming cultural touchstones that viewers simply can’t ignore. From intricate dramas to unforgettable comedies, these series offer gripping plots, masterful acting, and innovative storytelling that stand the test of time. Here are 15 must-watch, critically acclaimed TV shows that belong on everyone’s watchlist.
15 Critically Acclaimed TV Shows You Can’t-Miss
15 TV Shows with the Most Jaw-Dropping Plot Twists
Love when a show surprises you? These TV series are known for plot twists that keep you guessing. Here are 15 of the most shocking twists that had everyone talking.
15 TV Shows with the Most Jaw-Dropping Plot Twists
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