Actors clad in all-black attire and brandishing ‘fake weapons’ were recently spotted filming scenes for Gerard Butler’s upcoming Amazon series in Cardiff, as reported by Wales Online. The film crew, along with their cameras, descended upon Llandaff Cathedral where production was in full swing. The cathedral had been cordoned off for the filming on Wednesday, April 2, sparking speculation that it might be related to the second season of the TV show “Paris has Fallen.” Passers-by were greeted with signs cautioning them about the use of “replica weapons and fake bodies” during the shoot. Witnesses noted actors dressed in military and all-black costumes, with one crew member mentioning the filming of a “funeral scene.”
The TV series “Paris has Fallen” is a spin-off from the successful film franchise that includes “Olympus Has Fallen” (2013), “London Has Fallen” (2016), and “Angel Has Fallen” (2019). Accomplished Hollywood actor Gerard Butler, known for his role as agent Mike Banning in the movie series, is also serving as an executive producer for the television adaptation. The first season of the show, helmed by BAFTA-winning creator Howard Overman, premiered in November 2024 and featured a talented cast including British actors Ritu Arya and Sean Harris, alongside French actor Tewfik Jallab. The plot follows two agents from France and the UK collaborating after a high-profile terrorist attack targets the French Defence Minister.
While the show is being produced by French film company StudioCanal, it will be available for streaming on Amazon Prime. Maxime Saada, the CEO of StudioCanal, confirmed the green light for the show’s second season following the favourable reception of the initial nine episodes. The first season garnered praise with ratings of 6.5 stars on IMDb and a solid 91% on Rotten Tomatoes. Saada expressed delight over the global success of “Paris has Fallen” in various territories and platforms, leading to the production of the show’s second instalment, which is currently underway in the UK. However, the exact release date for the upcoming season has yet to be disclosed.
Llandaff Cathedral temporarily closed its doors for filming over a three-day period from Monday, March 31 to Wednesday, April 2, from 7am until 4pm. Services that would typically take place at the cathedral were relocated to St Padarn’s Institute’s Chapel during this period. The cathedral resumed its regular operations on Thursday, April 3, following the conclusion of the filming. The presence of the film crews and actors outside the historic cathedral generated buzz among locals in Cardiff, who were excited to witness the behind-the-scenes action of a high-profile production unfolding in their city.
Indeed, the transformation of the familiar surroundings into a bustling film set added a touch of glamour to the Cardiff locale. The involvement of renowned actors and production teams in the filming process magnifies the city’s prominence as a hub for creative endeavours and entertainment ventures. The convergence of talent and resources for the filming of Gerard Butler’s series underscores the allure of Cardiff as a sought-after destination for professional projects within the entertainment industry. The city continues to serve as a vibrant backdrop for diverse productions, showcasing its versatility and appeal to filmmakers seeking captivating locations for their creative visions.
The spirited activity surrounding the filming at Llandaff Cathedral epitomises the dynamic energy that infuses Cardiff’s cultural landscape. As the TV series unfolds against the backdrop of the city’s architectural splendour, audiences can anticipate a visually captivating narrative that intertwines Cardiff’s rich heritage with the intrigue of a thrilling storyline. The fusion of creative talent and historical settings fosters a unique tapestry of storytelling that promises to captivate viewers and transport them into the gripping world of “Paris has Fallen.” Cardiff’s evolving role as a cultural epicentre further solidifies its standing as a prime destination for cinematic endeavours and artistic expression, setting the stage for more exciting collaborations and productions in the future.