Jersey Shore Borough Declines Netflix Filming Plan Featuring Adam Driver
A small coastal community in New Jersey has decided not to move ahead with a proposed Netflix filming request, choosing to prioritize local concerns during the busy summer season. The decision highlights the growing tension some towns face as major entertainment productions expand across the state.
Officials in Lavallette confirmed that they would not proceed with a request to film scenes for an upcoming Netflix thriller series titled “Rabbit, Rabbit,” which stars actor Adam Driver. The proposal was discussed during an April 20 council meeting, where concerns were raised about the timing and scale of the production.
According to local officials, the streaming giant had shown interest in using the borough’s beach area for a one-day shoot scheduled for the summer. However, council members expressed hesitation about allowing a production crew of approximately 75 people into the area during peak tourist season. The town, known for its quiet atmosphere and seasonal visitors, typically experiences high foot traffic in the summer months, making logistics and crowd control a key concern.
While the borough maintains a generally open stance toward film and television projects, officials clarified that such activities are more appropriate outside of the summer period. Local guidelines already allow filming at the beach, but only before or after the busiest season. The town also enforces a standard filming fee of $300 under its existing ordinance.
The request from Netflix reportedly came shortly before the council meeting, giving officials limited time to evaluate the proposal in detail. Although it remains unclear whether a formal rejection was issued, the discussion made it evident that the timing of the shoot did not align with the borough’s priorities.
Lavallette is not the only location being considered for the series. Other municipalities in New Jersey have also been approached as part of the production planning. The show, described as a thriller, centers on an escaped convict who takes hostages in an attempt to negotiate his freedom.
Meanwhile, production activity for “Rabbit, Rabbit” is already underway in other parts of the state. A former commercial property in Middletown, previously known for its recognizable roadside signage, has been converted into a filming set resembling a gas station. This location is expected to play a significant role in the storyline, serving as a central base for the main character, portrayed by Driver.
Filming for the series began earlier this year and is scheduled to continue through late June. The cast includes several well-known actors alongside Driver, adding to the project’s high-profile status.
The decision by Lavallette comes at a time when New Jersey is experiencing a surge in film and television production. State officials have actively promoted the region as a filming destination, with multiple towns completing certification programs designed to attract media projects. Additionally, a major studio development is in progress at Fort Monmouth, where a large-scale production facility is expected to further boost the state’s entertainment industry.
Despite these broader efforts, Lavallette’s response shows that not every community is willing to accommodate large productions, especially when they may disrupt local life during critical economic periods. The borough’s cautious approach reflects a balance between welcoming new opportunities and protecting the character and functionality of the town during its busiest time of year.
Sources:
Star News Group
Tudum by Netflix
New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission
