Kiefer Sutherland Praises Knaresborough in New Sky Film
Hollywood star Kiefer Sutherland filmed in Knaresborough for Sky's festive movie, praising the warm, friendly locals, noting how the town's hospitality shaped the project, and hinting he will return for future work.
Kiefer Sutherland has praised the warm welcome he received in Knaresborough while filming Sky's festive movie, and says he plans to return. The town in North Yorkshire was the backdrop for Tinsel Town, a holiday comedy that also features Rebel Wilson and Danny Dyer.
Filming backdrop in Knaresborough
In early this year, crews set up across the town to shoot scenes for Tinsel Town, a Sky Original project. In the story, Sutherland plays Bradley Mack, a fading Hollywood action star who joins a local village's eccentric reimagining of Cinderella, meeting a cast of memorable locals along the way.
Local welcome and town scenes
Sutherland told INLIBER Radio York that the standout thing was the people — the locals were incredibly friendly and welcoming. He added that he would love to return because he made good friends in the area.
Filming drew attention in areas such as Castlegate, Riverside, and Green Dragon Yard, exciting residents and local businesses alike.
Director Chris Foggin called Knaresborough a perfect "chocolate box" location for the film and credited the cooperation of town merchants and residents as key to the shoot's success.
Sutherland described the project as giving American audiences a taste of quintessential British humor and said it offered a sense of what a real pantomime (a traditional British family stage show with audience participation) would feel like to star in. “It’s something I enjoyed a great deal,” he noted, adding that he is always eager to learn more.
In January and February, the town’s winter beauty shone through as the crew filmed on location.
Before its official Sky Cinema release on Friday, Frazer Theatre hosted an exclusive early screening on Tuesday for ticket holders, a special event made possible by the efforts of a local resident who helped secure Sky's permission to show the film.
For updates, listen to INLIBER Sounds for North Yorkshire highlights and catch the latest Look North episodes.
Expert view
Film analyst Dr. Emma Collins notes that filming in charming towns often boosts local pride and attracts visitors long after the cameras stop rolling. She also says such productions provide a meaningful boost to nearby businesses.
Short summary
Summary: Knaresborough serves as a picturesque backdrop for a Sky Original comedy, drawing attention to the town and its warm hospitality. Sutherland's praise highlights how a friendly community enhances the filming experience, while the Frazer Theatre screening shows strong local support. The film Tinsel Town airs on Sky Cinema with strong appeal for holiday audiences.
Filming in a small town can transform it into a memorable cinematic stage that attracts stars and newcomers alike. BBC News