Hulu series on opioid addiction, ‘Dopesick,’ set to film in Virginia
ROANOKE — “Dopesick,” a new Hulu series about America’s struggle with opioid addiction, is set to begin filming i n l ocations around Virginia.
The 8-episode limited series is inspired by the bestselling book, “Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug Company that Addicted America,” by Virginia author Beth Macy, who lives in Roanoke.
Gov. Ralph Northam said the series is expected to film at locations in central Virginia, the Shenandoah Valley and the Roanoke regions this winter and spring.
Academy Award-nominated actor Michael Keaton will executive produce and star alongside
Peter Sarsgaard, Rosario Dawson and Kaitlyn Dever.
“We are honored to host the impressive team behind this compelling and consequential project, and to play a role in putting a universal spotlight on the opioid epidemic that continues to devastate American families and communities from all walks of life,” Northam said in a news release.
Production will be required to adhere to comprehensive industry health and safety protocols developed over the past six months during the coronavirus pandemic. Those safety measures are in addition to the current
Virginia pandemic workplace safety guidelines and those required by Touchstone Television.
“Dopesick” will be eligible to receive a Virginia film tax credit or grant. The exact amount will be based on the number of Virginia workers hired, Virginia goods and services purchased, and deliverables, including Virginia tourism promotions.