Where Was Northern Exposure Filmed? A Goofy Comedy Drama Series Of 90s!!

Are you looking for a classic comedy drama series from the 90’s? Then be sure to check this article, where I discuss the vintage and popular series, Northern Exposure. And also let you in on Where Was Northern Exposure filmed.

The American television series was first released in 1990, with 8 episodes in season 1. The central theme or story of Northern Exposure is about a community of people living in a fictional town of Alaska. It majorly captures their amusing and chucklesome activities in their day to day lives. 

Creators Joshua and John, made a total of 6 seasons and the show had its finale in 1995. Noteworthy to mention, the show was nominated 57 times and went on to win 27 awards, during the course of five years. Needless to point out the Northern Exposure was a huge commercial success and was praised by critics and audiences alike.

For now, let me present to you the plot of Northern Exposure, so that you may have a better understanding of the storyline. And, later in this article I will share with you where was Northern Exposure filmed.

Plot Of Northern Exposure | What’s It About

The show begins by introducing the main character, Dr. Joel Fleischman (played by Rob Morrow), a recently graduated young doctor, looking for a stable job in a big city. But, after failing to establish a solid medical career in any of the metropolitan cities in America, he reaches the town of Cicely, Alaska. That’s where the fun begins!

The peculiar but innocent residents of the town seem strange to Dr. Joel at first. Although, as the days passed, with each hilarious event topping the other, the protagonist soon grows akin to the environment.

Other goofy characters such as the character of Maurice J Minnifield, an ex N.A.S.A astronaut, is shown to always come up with quirky remarks about the doctor. Which triggers Dr. Joel to engage in comical and witty banter. 

To sum up, the series portrays a number of characters with diverse psyche and background, living in the town of Cicely. The absurdities and eccentric actions of Dr. Joel and supporting roles, makes this series entertaining as hell. Be sure to laugh your brains out, once you start watching Northern Exposure.

Now, it’s time for us to find out more about where was Northern Exposure filmed. For you to be able to cherish the beautiful and scenic filming locations, the next time you watch this comedy drama series!

Where Was Northern Exposure Filmed? Let’s Know The Series Closely!!

Even though Northern Exposure is set in the town of Cicely in Alaska, the filming of this series was done in Washington in the US. However, the location for filming the first season was not easily decided.

The production team and the creative directors could not come to a conclusion on whether to shoot in Alaska, as shown in the series. Or to choose a more suitable location with a beautiful backdrop and regulated climate.

The creators of the show along with the production team at last, decided to choose Roslyn, Easton, and Redmond in Washington, as the main location for filming over the course of 5 seasons. So without any further delay, let’s explore in detail, where was Northern Exposure filmed.

Roslyn, Washington

The fictional town of Cicely, Alaska is easily mistaken for Talkeetna, Alaska, most of the time by audiences. But in reality, the filming of Northern Exposure took place in Kittitas County of Washington. More specifically in the city of Roslyn. 

Located near the Cascade Mountains, this city was perfect for the crew to shoot and strive to recreate the Alaskan backdrop. Also noteworthy to mention the production facility of the show, was set up in just a couple of days time. 

The principal photography for Season 1 began here, in 1989. Roslyn in fact was one the major filming sites of this comedy drama series. But soon the production camp was shifted from the location due to logistics issues that began to delay the schedule of filming.

Hey, I almost forgot though, here’s the list of absolutely fantastic shows and flicks such as, The Man in the High Castle, Hunting Grounds, Twin Peaks and The Unknown that were also filmed at this beautiful location. Be sure to look them up and enjoy!

Redmond, Easton | Washington

The city of Redmond is famous around the world for being a technology hub! One of the big 4 companies of the world Microsoft, and gaming giant Nintendo have their primary bases setup in this city. The production, along with filming other major episodes, also took technical assistance from these technology companies.

Studios in the city were utilized to their full extent to recreate the Alaskan backdrop for the series. Majority of the interior sequences were filmed in a make believe studio set. The lighting had to be on point, to replicate the vivid Alaskan vibe, which the production team worked very hard to achieve.

Some notable films like, From Dusk Till Dawn, Bustin’ Loose, and Killer Karaoke were filmed at this location, and probably used the same studio for after effects.

Finally towards the end of season 4 and 5 a number of episodes were filmed in Easton. Easton is also in Kittitas County. And as a neighboring city to Redmond, the production did not travel much, to film the final episodes at this location. No predicaments or notable problems arised, while filming in Easton.

Final Words

Right, so now that you’ve gone through the plot of this comedy series and know where was Northern Exposure filmed. I hope you’d look it up, and give it a go. The Golden Globe Award winning show is surely to give you a good time, and make you laugh.

But, in case the filming locations intrigue you more, you can definitely search them and plan your next trip to Washington, USA. To check out other informative and entertaining articles about other films and movies, be sure to visit Viebly. Until then, I’m outtie!