Part 2: Welcome to Fictional Indiana – TV Shows Set in Indiana (But Filmed Elsewhere)
These series and sitcoms have immortalized Indiana as a setting, proving its universal appeal for storytelling, even if the actual production took place on a sound stage thousands of miles away.
Stranger Things (Netflix, 2016–Present)
Indiana Setting: Fictional Hawkins, IN
Filming Location: Primarily Georgia (Atlanta, Jackson, etc.)
The Connection: The show’s global phenomenon is rooted in the small, unassuming town of Hawkins, where the contrast between everyday 1980s Midwestern life and supernatural terror from the Upside Down is stark.
Why It's a Hit: Used Indiana’s image as "Anytown, USA" for maximum dramatic effect.
Parks and Recreation (NBC, 2009–2015)
Indiana Setting: Fictional Pawnee, IN
Filming Location: Largely California (Pasadena City Hall was the exterior of Pawnee City Hall)
The Connection: The series is a loving parody of small-town Indiana bureaucracy and community spirit, giving life to one of TV's most famous (and fictional) towns.
Why It's a Hit: Quintessential depiction of small-town American politics and quirky characters.
The Middle (ABC, 2009–2018)
Indiana Setting: Fictional Orson, IN
Filming Location: California (Warner Bros. Studio)
The Connection: This long-running sitcom follows the struggles of the working-class Heck family. Orson is reportedly based on the creator's real-life Indiana hometown of Jasper.
Why It's a Hit: A highly relatable, grounded portrayal of a "middle American" family life.
The Upshaws (Netflix, 2021–Present)
Indiana Setting: The Near Westside of Indianapolis, IN
Filming Location: Los Angeles, California
The Connection: Starring Indianapolis native Mike Epps, this comedy centers on a working-class Black family in the city, offering a fresh, modern perspective on life in Indy.
Why It's a Hit: Brings a specific, real-world Indianapolis neighborhood to a global streaming audience.
The Ms. Pat Show (BET+, 2021–Present)
Indiana Setting: Plainfield, IN
Filming Location: Atlanta, Georgia
The Connection: The sitcom focuses on a former convicted felon who moves her family from Atlanta to the quiet, suburban world of Plainfield, Indiana, using the resulting culture clash for its humor.
Why It's a Hit: A modern comedy rooted in the fish-out-of-water scenario of moving to an Indiana suburb.
One Day at a Time (CBS, 1975–1984)
Indiana Setting: Indianapolis, IN
Filming Location: Los Angeles, California
The Connection: A classic and influential sitcom from producer Norman Lear, it was set in Indianapolis, focusing on a divorced mother raising two daughters.
Why It's a Hit: An iconic piece of TV history using Indianapolis as a modern, urban setting.
Eerie, Indiana (NBC, 1991–1992)
Indiana Setting: Fictional Eerie, IN
Filming Location: California
The Connection: This cult-favorite series follows Marshall Teller, who discovers his seemingly average town is actually the "center of weirdness for the universe," complete with Elvis sightings and strange suburban rituals.
Why It's a Hit: Used Indiana’s image as a quiet state to amplify its bizarre, paranormal plotlines.
The Hoosier State: A Small Screen Star!
Whether they genuinely filmed on location or simply borrowed the name of one of its cities, these TV series and specials have made Indiana an unmistakable character in modern pop culture.
If you love seeing Indiana on screen, check out these related features next:
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