Orbital Studios Launches Virtual Production at Television City in Los Angeles

Orbital Studios, a leading virtual production company known for its work on acclaimed projects like World War II with Tom Hanks and Nemesis, has officially relocated its headquarters to Television City in Los Angeles. This move, announced on Monday, brings advanced virtual production capabilities to the iconic 25-acre production campus.

Enhancing Production Capabilities with LED Technology

With the relocation, Television City will now feature Orbital Studios' state-of-the-art virtual production and research lab. This facility is equipped with multiple LED walls, enabling filmmakers to create immersive environments utilizing cutting-edge technology. “We could not be more excited to welcome Orbital Studios to Television City,” said Anthony Mazziotti, executive director of stage operations and marketing at Television City Studios.

“Their work puts this lot among the most advanced production environments anywhere, while honoring everything these stages have stood for.” This collaboration emphasizes the commitment to maintaining Television City as a vital hub for innovative storytelling in the entertainment industry.

Virtual Production: The Future of Filmmaking

Virtual production is revolutionizing the filmmaking process by leveraging technologies such as CGI, augmented reality, and LED screens to create dynamic backdrops and special effects. This technique has gained popularity with major productions, including The Mandalorian on Disney+ and House of the Dragon on HBO Max.

Orbital Studios is currently engaged in projects like FX's The Drop: A Snowfall Saga, showcasing their ability to blend physical and digital environments seamlessly. The studio aims to enhance the viewer's experience by creating realistic settings that transport audiences to different worlds.

Adapting to Industry Changes

As the production landscape evolves, Television City is adapting by embracing new technologies. The 73-year-old facility, once primarily associated with CBS, is exploring new avenues to remain relevant amid declining production rates in Los Angeles. This includes plans to open stages to influencers by 2025 and an ongoing expansion project that faces legal challenges.

“Walking these stages, you feel the weight of what was made here,” said A.J. Wedding, founder and CEO of Orbital Studios. “Generations of crews poured everything they had into these rooms. That legacy makes us determined to get it right.” The integration of virtual production technology is positioned as a strategic move to ensure that the storied history of Television City continues to thrive.