Given the complex nature of the years-long rights battle that plagued the Friday the 13th franchise, fans have understandably been quite reserved with their excitement for the prequel series Crystal Lake.
But now, fans have begun to voice their anticipation for the project, as we learn that filming has moved to an iconic location in the series lore.
Shooting in and around New Jersey, Crystal Lake has moved production to Blairstown, which is notable for being the first on-screen portrayal of Crystal Lake. The town is seen prominently in the opening minutes of Sean S. Cunningham’s Friday the 13th, as the character Annie seeks a ride to Camp Crystal Lake.
With production seemingly taking over the small New Jersey hamlet, particular attention has been paid to continuity. Behind the scenes images show the now-iconic vehicle driven by Pamela Voorhees in the 1980 classic, as well as a red Elston’s Oil Supply truck, driven by local Enos.
Cast members were seen filming on the town’s streets, with actress Linda Cardellini taking time to wave at onlookers, some of whom clutched franchise memorabilia.
Cardellini was also seen shooting a sequence with actor Nick Cordileone, who is aboard the series as “Crazy” Ralph Neeley.
Showrunner Brad Caleb Kane continues to share set teases via his Instagram, meaning there is a palpable sense of building anticipation for the show.
Described as an “extended prequel” to Friday the 13th, Crystal Lake will follow Pamela Voorhees (Cardellini) as a devoted single mother to a special needs child in the 1970s.
Chucky actor Callum Vinson will portray a young Jason Voorhees, whilst actor and stunt performer Zachary Branch will embody the character as an adult.
The cast also includes William Catlett, Cameron Scoggins, Danielle Kotch, Nancy Nagrant, and Phoenix Parnevik.
Filming is expected to last on Crystal Lake until October 2025, with the show expected to premiere via Peacock sometime in 2026.
