TV

Presumed Innocent: Where Is the Show Set & Filmed?

Presumed Innocent: Where Is the Show Set & Filmed?
Image credit: Apple TV+

Filmmakers are good at taking you to different places without really being there.

Undoubtedly, police procedurals and crime shows are in high demand of the audience today, as well as legal series that center more on the court aspect of crimes.

It is proved by the strong viewership of Apple TV ’s Presumed Innocent, adapted from the 1987 novel by Scott Turow. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, this legal series attracted the attention of millions of viewers around the world, but we bet you haven’t seen it yet.

The Story Behind Presumed Innocent

The Road House star portrays Rusty Sabich, a prosecuting attorney who lives his quiet life until it’s interrupted by shocking news. The point is, one of his colleagues gets mysteriously killed, and it is Gyllenhaal’s character who becomes the prime suspect.

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The whole case gets even more complicated when we learn that Rusty was having an affair with the deceased, even though he’s married. So he is forced to keep his family together and at the same time to prove he’s innocent (or to plead guilty).

Where Is Presumed Innocent Set?

This thriller series takes place in Chicago, and the depictions of the gritty megapolis are really authentic here. During an interview on Jake's Takes, Gyllenhaal admitted that Chicago “is a fantastic city,” also claiming “that’s why the show is so good.”

Where Was the Show Actually Filmed?

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This may come as a surprise, but the show wasn’t actually filmed in Chicago. Back in 2023, the production of Presumed Innocent was held in Pasadena, California, and it’s quite far from Illinois’ hot-spot.

The filming locations included the picturesque residencies and historic office building of Los Angeles’ Downtown that was also perfect for capturing the city’s urban vibe.

However, the real Chicago is also present in the series, as there are some exterior shots of the Windy city and its recognizable architectural style, including the skyline.

One fair question arises here: why do they need to film in L.A. instead of Chicago? The reason is quite simple and even predictable: it’s all about finances and logistics.

Check out this legal gem if you’re now interested in it, as Presumed Innocent is available for streaming on Apple TV+.