Photo: Rockportma.gov
ROCKPORT, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) – Apple TV+ has arrived in Massachusetts. The streaming platform's new series "Widow's Bay" is currently in production in the seaside town of Bearskin Neck in Rockport. Starring Emmy winner Matthew Rhys, the series follows a single father who is the mayor of what is believed to be a cursed island in New England. Rhys's character, who is on a mission to transform the town into a destination like Nantucket, refuses to let the residents derail his vision with what he believes are tall tales and superstitions. The real-life residents of Bearskin Neck have varying opinions about the production happening in their neighborhood.
"It's exciting. It's a hassle," said one Rockport resident.
"The last three days have just been crazy," remarked another resident.
Home to more than 7,000 people, the town has served as the backdrop for other big-name productions, including The Proposal starring Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds, and the Oscar Award-winning film CODA. And while not everyone is thrilled about the presence of Apple Studios in the area, some locals are embracing the idea of Hollywood in their backyards.
"It always gets very exciting too."
"All in all, it's been really fun."
"They're great people. They're professional. It's going to put us more on the map."
The 10-episode series is the brainchild of Katie Dippold, whose credits also include The Heat and Ghostbusters. A release date has not been announced.
WBZ NewsRadio's Kendall Buhl (@WBZKendall) reports.