EXCLUSIVE: Netflix’s first pilot, comedy Little Heavenis the latest television production to be affected by the writers’ strike. The single camera pilot starring and executive producer Samara Weaving was filmed in New Mexico.
Production was suspended Tuesday (13/06) and Thursday (15/06) this week due to WGA-related picketing, sources tell Deadline. I understand the pilot was scheduled to shoot on both days.
Sources say production is continuing without call-offs for the crew, with very early call-off times to avoid picketing and locations WhatsApped to department heads before midnight. It is believed that no actor, director or producers crossed the picket line.
Little Heaven Filming was scheduled to last until Tuesday, June 20th. I understand Netflix today informed the cast and crew that they are happy with the footage and there is no need to finish the pilot. A rep for the streamer declined to comment.
From creator Rightor Doyle, who is also directing the pilot, Little Heaven It centers on Penelope Paul Porter (Weaving), who is determined to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming a respected news reporter (despite the fact that she may be the worst reporter of all time). When she receives an anonymous tip that Little Sky’s mayor is missing, she knows this is her chance to finally prove herself. Arriving in the spooky, remote town of Little Sky, she senses she is on to something big – but little does she know she’s stumbled upon something much darker than she could have ever imagined.
Doyle is executive producer Little Heaven for King Lulu. His manager Dara Gordon is executive producer for Anonymous Content. Weaving is also executive producer.