Copyright © 2021 Albuquerque Journal
The hit ABC series “Big Sky” is coming to New Mexico – again.
The production originally was slated to film its first season in the state in 2020. Then the pandemic shuttered all productions and it moved to Vancouver, British Columbia.
On Thursday, the New Mexico Film Office announced the series has relocated its second season production to Rio Rancho.
“From the competitive incentive, a world-class crew, infrastructure, and close proximity to L.A. the secret is out – New Mexico offers an established ecosystem and is the place to be for film and TV,” said Alicia J. Keyes, New Mexico Economic Development secretary.
“‘Big Sky’ follows private detectives Cassie Dewell and Jenny Hoyt as they reunite to investigate a car wreck outside of Helena, Montana, and they soon discover that the case may not be as straightforward as it seems,” the Film Office says. “As they unravel the mystery of the accident, their worlds will collide with a band of unsuspecting teens, a flirtatious face from (Hoyt’s) past, and a vicious outsider hellbent on finding answers.”
It is based on the series of books by C.J. Box and stars Kylie Bunbury and Katheryn Winnick.
According to the New Mexico Film Office, the series will film through April 2022.
It will employ more than 500 New Mexico crew members and thousands of residents as background talent and extras during the season.
Amber Dodson, New Mexico Film Office director, said the production’s prolonged presence in New Mexico will generate income for many businesses in the state.
“There is no better place for this rustic, scenic, story than the dramatic landscapes of New Mexico,” Dodson said.
The first season of “Big Sky” averaged nearly 4 million viewers.
The second season will star Winnick, Bunbury, Brian Geraghty, Dedee Pfeiffer, Omar Metally and Anja Savcic. It’s set to premiere Sept. 30.
Elwood Reid serves as showrunner and executive producer.
“For years I’ve had friends rave to me about their experience filming in New Mexico. I’m excited to bring the second season of ‘Big Sky’ to the Land of Enchantment,” Reid said. “The excellent crews, the facilities and natural beauty of New Mexico has so far exceeded expectations.”
