Do TV Shows Reuse Sets for Different Shows or Seasons?

TV shows often require various sets to create the necessary environments for their stories. But do these sets ever see double use for different shows or even in the same series? This question has sparked interest among fans and industry professionals alike. Let’s explore the fascinating world of TV set reuse and design.

Instances of Reused Sets

One notable example is the show Leverage: Redemption, which has been spotted using the NCIS New Orleans courtyard set as part of its own headquarters. This surprising reuse of sets demonstrates how production teams can be innovative in setting a scene.

In the realm of classic TV shows, set reuse is not a rarity. For instance, Star Trek: The Original Series leveraged a set from the Andy Griffith Show for several episodes. This includes notable scenes in “Mudd’s Women” (referred to as “Muri” in certain contexts), “Return of the Archons,” and most famously “The City on the Edge of Forever.” In one memorable scene, the window to Floyd’s Barbershop from The Andy Griffith Show is clearly visible. This reuse extended to episodes like “A Piece of the Action,” “Patterns of Force,” and “Bread and Circuses” where the reference was more questionable.

The Economics of Set Reuse

Production companies are constrained by budgets and need to be cost-effective. Sets in television production are primarily built from lightweight materials such as 1x3 inches planks and 1/8 inch plywood. These materials are chosen for their affordability and ease of transport. The cost of storing sets in a high-rent area like Hollywood is another financial consideration, with even a small single set stage costing about $600 per month to store. This financial incentive often makes set reuse a practical choice.

Set Reuse in Modern Times

While set reuse is common, its less about maintaining a single set and more about repurposing elements for different shows. For instance, during the first season of Bones, which was being filmed at the same time as Leverage: Redemption, it appears both productions utilized some sets despite different production companies. This reusability is part of a broader strategy of show cross-promotion and leveraging shared network resources. Once a show ends, sets are typically stored long enough to determine if they can be salvaged for reuse. If not, they are often torn down. However, this process can be costly in terms of man-hours and disposal fees, leading studios to sometimes repurpose and recycle set materials.

Some set shops continue to repurpose parts and flats (large, flat surfaces) to build other sets, particularly when cost efficiencies are considered. Older set pieces and flats are often scrapped to make room for new and fresher materials. This is because storage space on set lots is at a premium and keeping old sets takes up valuable real estate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while TV shows rarely reuse sets in their entirety, there is a significant amount of set repurposing for the sake of cost efficiency and resource management. The reuse of sets is more about recycling elements than maintaining a full set. As long as the aesthetic and continuity requirements for each show are met, this practice is a common and practical solution in the television production industry.