Last week Netflix filmed the upcoming dramedy series The Chair, a new series created by Amanda Peet and her husband David Benioff (Game of Thrones) in the Borough. The series lead actress Sandra Oh (Grey’s Anatomy) serves as executive producer.
Production filmed in Janice Potisek’s home on North Wade with additional scenes shot on South Wade. We spoke with Janice about her experience, the process, and if she would do it again.
The Pittsburgh filming company scouted homes in the Borough in late 2020, searching for homes with a porch. According to the crew, Janice’s home was not one of the initial options until creator Amanda Peet chose her home from a collection of images and as her first choice. Janice agreed to let them use her home “I thought it would be neat to see my house on TV.” said Janice.
The film scouts including the Art Director for the series visited her home a few times this Winter to plan and coordinate the interior shots.
When filming began, Janice could not stay in her home with the production paying for her to stay at the Hampton Inn with a generous food per-diem. Janice watched the production from across the street during the day.
Because of COVID, the production was very stringent on who could enter the home. “I didn’t get to meet any of the actors,” said Janice, but “I did see Sandra Oh go in my home.” The production used some of her furniture but also moved in furniture to stage her house.
“They shot on the porch, the foyer, living room, kitchen, back hallway, and the bathroom.” The crew told Janice her home would be the setting of Sandra Oh’s character’s childhood home. Several flashback scenes with a young actress portraying Sandra’s character were shot.
“Everybody was very nice, and razor-focused on what they need to accomplish with no time for small talk.” Janice was well paid for the use of her home and the inconvenience during the production. “The experience was very invasive but I’m glad I did it.”
Janice shared with us that the Pittsburgh film and Netflix crew were very complimentary of the Borough residents. “They said everyone was wonderful and helpful and it was a pleasure to film here.” They also loved the neighborhood. We agree!
The Chair features the character Ji-Yoon (Oh) as the first woman Chair of an English Department at Pembroke University. The series will be released on Netflix in late 2021 or early 2022.