Season 5 of the acclaimed NBC drama This Is Us faced unprecedented production challenges, with filming commencing around late August 2020 and concluding in May 2021. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the show’s filming schedule, leading to production delays and adjustments to ensure the safety of the cast and crew.
Behind the Scenes: Navigating a Pandemic
The filming of This Is Us Season 5 presented unique hurdles. The pandemic necessitated the implementation of stringent safety protocols, including regular testing, social distancing measures, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). This created a ripple effect, influencing everything from the scheduling of scenes to the availability of actors. Showrunner Dan Fogelman and the entire production team demonstrated remarkable adaptability and creativity in navigating these complex circumstances. They skillfully balanced the need to maintain the show’s signature emotional depth with the practical limitations imposed by the pandemic.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Production
The COVID-19 pandemic undeniably played a significant role in shaping the production timeline of Season 5. The initial shutdown of Hollywood productions in March 2020 disrupted pre-production activities. When filming eventually resumed, the modified protocols added considerable time to the process. Scenes involving large gatherings were reimagined, and the number of people allowed on set at any given time was significantly reduced. These changes not only impacted the pacing of filming but also influenced the narrative choices made by the writers.
The Season 5 Airdate and Broadcast Schedule
Despite the challenges, Season 5 premiered on October 27, 2020. While production delays did occur throughout the season, NBC made efforts to maintain a consistent broadcast schedule, delivering the emotionally resonant episodes fans eagerly anticipated.
Episode Production Timeline
Understanding the precise filming dates for each episode is difficult due to confidentiality and the fluid nature of production schedules. However, it’s safe to assume that each episode took several weeks to film, factoring in pre-production, rehearsals, principal photography, and post-production. The staggered release of episodes was partially dictated by the ongoing filming process and the need to accommodate potential delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About This Is Us Season 5 Filming
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the production and filming of Season 5 of This Is Us:
FAQ 1: What specific COVID-19 safety protocols were implemented on set?
The production team implemented comprehensive safety measures, including regular COVID-19 testing for all cast and crew, mandatory mask-wearing except when actors were actively filming, social distancing protocols whenever possible, enhanced sanitization of equipment and sets, and staggered call times to minimize the number of people on set simultaneously. They also employed a designated COVID-19 compliance officer to oversee and enforce these safety protocols.
FAQ 2: Did any cast members test positive for COVID-19 during filming?
While specific individual health information is confidential, it’s generally understood that the production team actively managed any potential COVID-19 cases to minimize disruption and ensure the safety of everyone involved. There were no major, publicly reported outbreaks that halted production for extended periods.
FAQ 3: How did the pandemic affect the storyline of Season 5?
The pandemic directly impacted the storyline of Season 5. The writers incorporated the real-world events of 2020, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement, into the narrative, adding a layer of realism and relevance to the characters’ experiences. This allowed the show to explore themes of resilience, connection, and social justice in a meaningful way.
FAQ 4: Were any scenes filmed remotely due to the pandemic?
While This Is Us did not heavily rely on entirely remote filming like some other shows, there were instances where certain scenes were adapted to minimize close contact. This might have involved smaller crew sizes, adjusted camera angles, or the use of creative editing techniques. However, the production team prioritized in-person filming whenever possible to maintain the show’s characteristic intimacy.
FAQ 5: How long did it typically take to film one episode of Season 5?
The exact timeframe varied, but it likely took between two to three weeks to film each episode of Season 5, considering the enhanced safety protocols and the complexities of the show’s non-linear storytelling. This included pre-production, rehearsals, filming, and initial editing.
FAQ 6: Where was Season 5 of This Is Us filmed?
This Is Us is primarily filmed in Los Angeles, California. Specific locations within Los Angeles are used to depict different time periods and settings within the Pearson family’s history. The show is known for its ability to seamlessly transition between various time periods, requiring a diverse range of filming locations.
FAQ 7: Did the shortened production schedule affect the quality of Season 5?
Despite the challenges, the creative team worked diligently to maintain the show’s high standards. While some viewers may have noticed slight differences in pacing or narrative structure due to the pandemic-related constraints, the core emotional themes and character development that define This Is Us remained strong.
FAQ 8: What were the biggest challenges the crew faced while filming during the pandemic?
The biggest challenges included maintaining a safe environment for the cast and crew, adapting to constantly evolving safety guidelines, managing scheduling conflicts due to potential quarantine periods, and ensuring that the on-screen chemistry and emotional depth of the show were not compromised by the physical distancing measures.
FAQ 9: How did the actors adjust to filming with the new COVID-19 protocols?
The actors adapted remarkably well to the new protocols. They expressed appreciation for the production team’s commitment to safety and embraced the necessary adjustments with professionalism and flexibility. They relied on their established relationships and acting skills to maintain the emotional intimacy of the scenes, even with physical distancing measures in place.
FAQ 10: Did the filming schedule impact the writing process for Season 5?
Yes, the evolving filming schedule inevitably influenced the writing process. The writers had to remain adaptable and prepared to adjust storylines or dialogue to accommodate potential production delays or limitations. They also used the opportunity to incorporate the real-world events of 2020 into the narrative, adding a layer of authenticity and relevance to the season.
FAQ 11: Was Season 5 supposed to be the final season before the pandemic?
No, Season 6 was always intended to be the final season of This Is Us, even before the pandemic impacted production. The writers had a clear plan for the show’s ending, and the pandemic did not significantly alter that overall trajectory.
FAQ 12: How did the production team ensure the continuity of the show despite the challenges?
The production team maintained continuity through careful planning, meticulous attention to detail, and strong communication between all departments. They relied on experienced crew members who were familiar with the show’s aesthetic and narrative style to ensure that the look and feel of This Is Us remained consistent throughout Season 5, despite the logistical hurdles.