At a panel during Fort Worth’s Lone Star Film Festival, key members of the production team behind the worldwide hit series The Chosen praised Texas for providing a friendly, low‑ego work environment that helps filmmakers focus on quality storytelling.
Local talent thrives in a welcoming culture
Daniel Klingler, the series’ lead hairstylist, contrasted the atmosphere in North Texas with that of larger hubs such as New York City. “The culture here is a little more friendly and not as pretentious,” Klingler said, noting that the state’s film community emphasizes collaboration over competition.
Art director Ryan Palmer echoed the sentiment, adding that Texas offers “very few egos” and draws talent from across the state. Palmer, who has also worked on shows like Queen of the South and Cruel Summer, said local crews are eager to produce great television without the pressure of a director constantly shouting on set.
Production details and local impact
Since season three, The Chosen has been filmed primarily at a 1,200‑acre facility in Midlothian, Texas. The series, which dramatizes the life of Jesus Christ, has reached more than 300 million viewers worldwide since its 2019 debut, according to the Dallas Morning News. Filming for the seventh and final season wrapped in late September, with the sixth season—focusing on the crucifixion—set to premiere on November 15 via Amazon Prime Video. The concluding season is slated for release in 2028.
Costume designer Leila Heise highlighted the professionalism of the local crew, noting that her team handled thousands of clothing items to ensure historical accuracy. “We work just as hard as everybody else, but everybody’s just so nice,” she said. “You don’t have a director screaming at you or anybody screaming at you trying to get things done. We just buckle down and do the work.”
Why Texas matters for the industry
The panelists stressed that Texas’ film‑friendly policies, diverse locations, and supportive community make the state an attractive destination for both established and emerging productions. By offering a collaborative environment with fewer ego‑driven clashes, Texas helps talent from various cities thrive without the pressure often found in larger markets.
Local officials and industry leaders see this as a boost to the state’s economy, creating jobs and fostering a creative ecosystem that can compete with traditional hubs. The positive feedback from a high‑profile series like The Chosen underscores Texas’ growing reputation as a major center for film and television.
Looking ahead
As the Lone Star Film Festival celebrates its 20th year, organizers hope the event will continue to showcase Texas’ capacity to host ambitious projects while nurturing a culture of kindness and professionalism. The success of The Chosen serves as a testament to what can be achieved when filmmakers find a supportive home in the Lone Star State.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
