From Riz Ahmed’s award-winning charm to a gingerbread wonderland on Goodhall Street, Ealing continues to be a hub for TV and film magic. With stars like Clare Balding, Martin Freeman, and Ant & Dec gracing its parks and streets, the borough is making waves in the entertainment world.
If the new year feels a little lacklustre, the latest edition of “Reel Life” is sure to brighten your mood. Packed with exciting updates from the world of TV and film, this round-up showcases the magic happening in and around the borough. From Oscar winners to gingerbread streets, there’s no shortage of cinematic sparkle.
Star Power in Acton Park
Acton Park recently played host to BAFTA-winning TV sports presenter Clare Balding, who was spotted filming a health-focused ad. The park’s vibrant scenery, maintained by Ealing Council’s parks team, set the perfect backdrop for a shoot that featured frisbee throwing and some exceptionally well-trained dogs.
Award-Winning Actors in Greenford Hall
The borough continued to attract big names with Martin Freeman, star of Sherlock and The Hobbit, filming at Greenford Hall. Freeman was joined by rising talent Molly Belle Wright to shoot scenes for a film adaptation of Flavia de Luce, a beloved book series centred on an 11-year-old chemist turned detective.
Riz Ahmed Brings Amazon Prime Magic
Oscar-winning actor Riz Ahmed chose W3 as a filming location for his upcoming comedy-drama Quarterlife. The story follows a struggling actor grappling with fame, family, and personal insecurities. With the help of the West London Film Office (WLFO), a road was temporarily closed to capture the perfect scene, featuring Riz walking through a bustling, multicultural shopping area alongside 50 background actors.
Ant & Dec Add Their Charm
Kings of Saturday night entertainment, Ant & Dec, were seen filming a trailer for ITV’s 2025 programming in Eastbourne Avenue. The much-anticipated clip, featuring UK TV’s biggest stars, promises to hit screens soon.
A Gingerbread Wonderland
Last December, Tesco transformed Goodhall Street into a festive gingerbread wonderland for its Christmas 2024 advert. The street was adorned with gingerbread houses, a scooter, and even a life-sized gingerbread boy. The Victorian railway cottages of Goodhall and Stephenson Street, long-time favourites for film crews since the 1930s, once again proved to be the perfect backdrop. With the help of a collaborative residents’ association and the WLFO, the shoot was a festive triumph.
Turn Your Property into a Film Star
Think your home has what it takes to be a star? The WLFO is always on the lookout for new locations. If you’re interested in renting your property for TV or film shoots, send high-quality photos of your interiors and exteriors to wlfo@ealing.gov.uk. Your home could be the next big hit!
With such a dazzling start to the year, the borough continues to cement its reputation as a go-to destination for the film and TV industry. Keep your eyes peeled—you never know when the next blockbuster might be filming just around the corner.
