The smashed up car teetered on its side underneath the Metra tracks at the intersection of Milwaukee, Clinton and Fulton while firefighters jumped out of the truck and paramedics pulled out a stretcher.
Just another day on the mobile set of “Chicago Fire,” the NBC drama that films all around the Chicago area.
It’s not everyday they film within a stone’s throw of my condo, though, so I relented to the lure of the sirens’ song and snuck a peek at the action on my way to work Tuesday morning.
(Real) police and security were being patient with lookie-loos like me, politely asking us to keep moving or stand far enough out of the frame so we didn’t get in the shot.
Fans of the show know that last season ended with a cliffhanger that will likely spell the end of at least one main character. I spied several actors who I now know are safe — barring the possibility that this was some bizarre flashback sequence. I don’t want to spoil that for viewers so I’m not going to name names. One particular character was noticeably absent, but that actor might simply not have been cast in that scene. Nonetheless, that person now ranks at the top of my “Chicago Fire” death pool.
Related: “Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga jazz album due Sept. 23.”
Notices posted in the area say that “Fire” will be shooting in this part of Fulton River District/West Loop through Wednesday night.
“Fire” and “Chicago P.D.” just recently started filming their third and second seasons, respectively. I talked to showrunner Matt Olmstead shortly before production started to ask what’s in store for both series and get answers to readers’ questions. (One fan wanted to know if “Fire” will ever shoot near Superdawg. A fine idea if you ask me.)
If you decide to check out the “Fire” filming in person, here’s some unsolicited advice: try to keep your distance and stay out of everyone’s way. They’ve got a job to do, after all. And remember you’re walking into a giant spoiler alert situation, so steer clear if you want to keep up the suspense for the season premiere.
