Blue Mountain State, the riotously funny sitcom about college football life, is etched in the minds of many. But while the show presented a seemingly authentic portrayal of collegiate life, the real Blue Mountain State wasn’t a single university. Instead, Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada served as the primary filming location, providing the iconic backdrop for the show’s hilarious antics and memorable moments. The university’s campus, particularly its athletic facilities and student residences, became synonymous with the fictional “BMU.”
Unveiling the Mystery: Wilfrid Laurier University and Blue Mountain State
The series, celebrated for its raunchy humor and exaggerated depictions of college culture, cleverly utilized various locations to construct the complete image of Blue Mountain State. However, Wilfrid Laurier University provided the foundational visuals, housing key sets and exteriors that shaped the show’s identity. The choice of Wilfrid Laurier wasn’t accidental. Its architectural style, expansive green spaces, and pre-existing athletic infrastructure perfectly aligned with the show’s creators’ vision of a large, spirited American university.
The production team meticulously adapted the campus to fit the narrative. Buildings were renamed, banners and signs were redesigned, and the entire atmosphere was transformed to reflect the fictional Blue Mountain State. This dedication to detail contributed significantly to the show’s immersive quality, blurring the lines between fiction and reality for viewers. While other locations were used for specific scenes, Laurier’s impact is undeniable.
Key Locations on Campus: Beyond the Green
Several specific locations within Wilfrid Laurier University played prominent roles in Blue Mountain State.
The Athletic Complex: Home of the Mountain Goats
The university’s athletic facilities, especially the football field and associated buildings, were heavily featured throughout the series. These spaces served as the practice grounds, game day locations, and even the occasional party venue for the infamous Mountain Goats. The familiar sight of the football field, with its vibrant green turf and surrounding stands, is instantly recognizable to fans of the show.
Residence Halls: The Social Hub
Student residences at Wilfrid Laurier also formed a crucial part of the Blue Mountain State landscape. Exteriors of the dorms were frequently used, providing a sense of realism to the characters’ lives. While interior shots were often filmed on soundstages, the exterior shots of the residence halls established a strong connection to campus life.
Other Notable Landmarks
Beyond athletics and residences, other areas of the university contributed to the show’s visual identity. The campus quad, various academic buildings, and even specific walkways became backdrops for countless scenes, adding depth and authenticity to the portrayal of college life.
The Legacy: Blue Mountain State’s Impact on Laurier
The filming of Blue Mountain State undoubtedly left its mark on Wilfrid Laurier University.
Increased Visibility: A Boost for the University
The show brought increased attention to Wilfrid Laurier University, exposing it to a wider audience beyond Canada. While the show’s content might not have always aligned with the university’s official image, it undeniably boosted Laurier’s visibility, particularly among younger demographics.
Local Economy: Benefits for the Community
The production also provided economic benefits to the surrounding community. The cast and crew brought business to local restaurants, hotels, and other businesses, contributing to the local economy during the filming periods.
Blue Mountain State FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions about Blue Mountain State and its filming locations, providing further insights into the show’s production and the real-world setting.
FAQ 1: Was the entire show filmed at Wilfrid Laurier University?
No, while Wilfrid Laurier University served as the primary filming location and provided the overall look and feel of the campus, other locations were also used, particularly for interior shots which were often filmed on soundstages.
FAQ 2: Did Wilfrid Laurier University allow the filming of the raunchy scenes?
While the university did have oversight over the filming, the show’s creators managed to negotiate the use of the campus while maintaining their comedic vision. The university likely considered the economic benefits and potential for increased visibility.
FAQ 3: Are there any tours of the “Blue Mountain State” locations on campus?
Currently, there are no official, university-sanctioned tours of the filming locations. However, fans often visit the campus and recognize familiar spots from the show.
FAQ 4: How did the students at Wilfrid Laurier University react to the filming?
Many students were excited about the filming, seeing it as a unique and interesting event. Some students even worked as extras on the show.
FAQ 5: Did the university make any changes to its campus specifically for the show?
The university did not make any permanent structural changes to its campus for Blue Mountain State. However, the production team did temporarily alter signage and add set dressings to reflect the fictional university’s branding.
FAQ 6: Is there anything on the Wilfrid Laurier University campus that commemorates Blue Mountain State?
There are no official plaques or memorials dedicated to Blue Mountain State on the Wilfrid Laurier University campus. However, the visual memory of the show remains strong for many.
FAQ 7: Were any other universities considered as filming locations?
While the production team likely scouted various locations, Wilfrid Laurier University ultimately provided the best combination of aesthetics, logistics, and accessibility for the show.
FAQ 8: Did the show’s popularity impact enrollment at Wilfrid Laurier University?
It’s difficult to definitively quantify the exact impact of Blue Mountain State on enrollment. However, the show likely contributed to increased awareness of the university, particularly among prospective students interested in a vibrant campus life.
FAQ 9: Can I visit the football field used in the show?
Yes, the football field is generally accessible to the public when it is not being used for university activities. Visitors are welcome to take photos and explore the area.
FAQ 10: Was the “Goat House” actually located on the Wilfrid Laurier University campus?
While exterior shots of dorms that served as visual representations of “The Goat House” were filmed at Wilfrid Laurier University, the actual interior scenes were filmed on soundstages. Therefore, a “Goat House” specific to the show’s interior design does not exist on campus.
FAQ 11: Did any of the cast members attend Wilfrid Laurier University?
To the best of our knowledge, none of the main cast members of Blue Mountain State were students at Wilfrid Laurier University prior to filming. They were actors hired specifically for the show.
FAQ 12: Is there any connection between the show and the actual Wilfrid Laurier University football team?
While the show features a fictional football team, “The Mountain Goats,” there is no direct connection to the actual Wilfrid Laurier University Golden Hawks football team. The show borrowed some aesthetic elements but is not representative of the Golden Hawks.
In conclusion, Wilfrid Laurier University’s recognizable campus provided the primary foundation for Blue Mountain State’s visual identity. The show, while fictional and often outrageous, left a lasting impression on the university and its surrounding community. While a singular “Blue Mountain State” doesn’t exist, the spirit of the show undeniably lives on within the walls of Wilfrid Laurier University.