The beloved television series “This Is Us,” while spanning decades and locales, cultivated a tangible connection to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. While not exclusively filmed in the city, the show extensively utilized various Pittsburgh neighborhoods, primarily showcasing the urban charm of Squirrel Hill and the vibrant community of Shadyside to bring its poignant stories to life.
The Heart of the Steel City: “This Is Us” in Pittsburgh
“This Is Us” beautifully blended studio filming in Los Angeles with on-location shoots that captured the essence of Pittsburgh. These authentic settings allowed the series to ground its narrative in a real sense of place, resonating deeply with viewers familiar with the city’s distinct character. The deliberate choice of Pittsburgh wasn’t merely aesthetic; it served to amplify the show’s themes of family, memory, and the enduring power of connection within a specific cultural context. We can identify many instances of deliberate filming in specific locations within the city to enhance the narrative.
Squirrel Hill: The Family Hub
Squirrel Hill, with its leafy streets, classic architecture, and close-knit community feel, became synonymous with the Pearsons’ early family life. Several key scenes depicting Jack and Rebecca’s beginnings and their children’s formative years were filmed in this neighborhood. The houses chosen often reflected the typical Pittsburgh housing stock: brick homes with front porches and manicured lawns. The sense of neighborhood camaraderie played into the feel of the show, portraying a traditional way of life, and providing the foundation for the family’s unique structure. Specific residential streets were often used, giving fans a real feel for the area.
Shadyside: A Touch of Urban Sophistication
As the Pearson children grew older and explored their own identities, Shadyside emerged as a prominent filming location. Known for its upscale boutiques, trendy restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere, Shadyside represented a shift towards independence and self-discovery. This juxtaposition to the more modest settings of Squirrel Hill highlighted the characters’ evolving lives and aspirations. Scenes featuring college visits, young adult interactions, and career milestones were often set against Shadyside’s dynamic backdrop.
Beyond Squirrel Hill and Shadyside
While Squirrel Hill and Shadyside served as the primary Pittsburgh backdrops, “This Is Us” also incorporated other locations to enrich its visual narrative. Glimpses of the city skyline, particularly featuring iconic landmarks like the bridges and the incline, offered a visual reminder of Pittsburgh’s industrial heritage and its enduring spirit. Specific locations, like the Strip District (for a more urban, marketplace feel) and various parks throughout the city, also made brief appearances. The show’s team was able to strategically use the city’s landscape to enhance the storyline.
Exploring the “This Is Us” Pittsburgh Filming Locations: Your FAQs Answered
To further delve into the intricacies of the Pittsburgh filming locations of “This Is Us,” here are twelve frequently asked questions answered in detail.
1. Was “This Is Us” actually filmed in Pittsburgh, or was it just set there?
While primarily filmed on soundstages in Los Angeles, “This Is Us” incorporated significant on-location filming in Pittsburgh. These scenes were crucial for establishing the show’s setting and adding authenticity to the story. The exterior shots and specific locations, such as homes, businesses, and landmarks, were filmed within Pittsburgh. The integration of these Pittsburgh scenes with the LA studio work created a cohesive and believable world for the characters to inhabit.
2. Which specific streets in Squirrel Hill were used for filming?
While exact addresses are often kept private to protect residents, several streets in the residential areas of Squirrel Hill saw filming activity. These areas are characterized by tree-lined streets, brick houses, and well-maintained gardens. Fan searches often reveal glimpses of familiar street signs and house facades in the show’s footage. It’s important to remember to be respectful of residents when trying to locate these sites.
3. Were any famous Pittsburgh landmarks featured in the show?
Yes, the producers skillfully incorporated iconic Pittsburgh landmarks into the series. The city’s distinctive bridges, particularly the Roberto Clemente Bridge, the Andy Warhol Bridge, and the Rachel Carson Bridge, often appeared in establishing shots. The Duquesne Incline was also featured, offering panoramic views of the city skyline. These landmarks served not only as visual cues for viewers but also as symbols of Pittsburgh’s unique identity.
4. What kind of Pittsburgh architecture was emphasized in “This Is Us”?
“This Is Us” showcased the diverse architectural landscape of Pittsburgh, emphasizing its historic brick houses, particularly in neighborhoods like Squirrel Hill. These homes are often characterized by their front porches, intricate brickwork, and well-preserved architectural details. The show also highlighted the city’s industrial heritage through glimpses of its steel mills, bridges, and warehouses, which serve as a backdrop to the stories.
5. How did the show incorporate Pittsburgh’s cultural identity into the narrative?
The show subtly wove in elements of Pittsburgh’s cultural identity, such as its strong sense of community, its working-class roots, and its unique local expressions. While not always explicitly mentioned, the characters’ behaviors, values, and relationships often reflected these cultural nuances. The authenticity of the Pittsburgh setting served to deepen the emotional resonance of the stories.
6. Did any local Pittsburgh actors appear in “This Is Us”?
While the main cast consisted of nationally recognized actors, “This Is Us” did occasionally feature local Pittsburgh talent in supporting roles and as extras. This decision added another layer of authenticity to the show and provided opportunities for local actors to showcase their abilities.
7. What restaurants or businesses in Shadyside were used as filming locations?
While specific restaurant names were usually avoided to prevent undue attention, Shadyside’s vibrant commercial district served as a backdrop for numerous scenes. The show captured the neighborhood’s upscale boutiques, trendy cafes, and lively street scenes. The producers likely selected these locations for their visual appeal and their ability to convey a sense of urban sophistication.
8. How did the “This Is Us” production crew impact the Pittsburgh neighborhoods during filming?
The production crew likely coordinated closely with local authorities and residents to minimize disruptions during filming. Street closures, parking restrictions, and noise levels would have been carefully managed to ensure that the neighborhood’s daily life was not unduly affected. Many locals welcomed the filming, seeing it as a positive portrayal of their city.
9. Were there any scenes filmed outside of Pittsburgh that were supposed to represent Pittsburgh?
Occasionally, scenes were filmed in Los Angeles that were intended to resemble Pittsburgh settings. This might have been done for logistical reasons or to recreate specific architectural details that were difficult to find on location. However, the show strove to maintain a high level of authenticity in its portrayal of Pittsburgh, minimizing the use of substitute locations.
10. Can I visit any of the filming locations from “This Is Us” in Pittsburgh?
Yes, you can visit many of the exterior filming locations used in “This Is Us.” Squirrel Hill and Shadyside are both easily accessible neighborhoods with plenty to see and do. Remember to be respectful of residents and businesses when exploring these areas. Be aware that homes shown are generally privately owned, so maintain an appropriate distance.
11. How did the Pittsburgh community react to “This Is Us” being filmed in their city?
The Pittsburgh community largely embraced “This Is Us” and welcomed the exposure it brought to their city. Many residents appreciated the show’s realistic portrayal of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and its ability to capture the city’s unique character. The show’s popularity also boosted tourism and generated positive press for the city.
12. Are there any organized tours of “This Is Us” filming locations in Pittsburgh?
While official organized tours may not exist, some local tour companies may offer customized tours that include “This Is Us” filming locations. You can also create your own self-guided tour by researching the locations mentioned in this article and exploring the neighborhoods of Squirrel Hill and Shadyside. Local message boards and online forums might offer additional details.