Where was Degrassi: The Next Generation filmed?
2001
City Locations
Toronto, Ontario (Canada)
Location Types
University, Film Studio
Location Styles
Modern Building, Georgian/Southern, Colonial, School
About Degrassi: The Next Generation
Degrassi: The Next Generation is a compelling Canadian television series that aired for 14 years from 2001 to 2015. This iconic series was the brainchild of Kit Hood, Linda Schuyler, and Stephen Stohn, creators who mastered depicting the lives and challenges of high school students.
Under the direction of a slew of talented individuals, such as Bruce McDonald, Phil Earnshaw, and Stefan Scaini, the series took on a life of its own. The vibrant cast comprised notable actors like Stefan Brogren, Pat Mastroianni, Stacie Mistysyn, and Amanda Stepto, who invested their characters authentically, adding depth to the riveting narrative.
Set in the socio-cultural milieu of Degrassi Community School, the plot delves deep into adolescents' raw and real struggles. Degrassi: The Next Generation never shied away from exploring hard-hitting topics, from teen pregnancy and drug abuse to bullying and the journey of self-identity. The series has been widely commended for its relatable portrayal of these issues, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
Witnessing an impeccable run, Degrassi: The Next Generation clinched numerous awards, making it a remarkably significant series. It received several Young Artist Awards, Directors Guild of Canada Awards, and GLAAD Media Awards, besides receiving numerous nominations from esteemed bodies like the Gemini Awards and Teen Choice Awards. Dive into the journey of Degrassi: The Next Generation, a series that stands as a testament to the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of the adolescent experience.
Degrassi: The Next Generation Locations
Degrassi: The Next Generation, a beloved Canadian teen drama series from 2001 to 2015, has its roots firmly planted in Toronto, Ontario. The series is set in the Degrassi universe, centered initially on De Grassi Street, where the three previous series came to life. However, with the advent of The Next Generation, Epitome Pictures' expansive 100,000-square-foot production studios in Toronto hosted production. This space houses four soundstages and a meticulously designed backlot to bring the world of Degrassi to life.
The majority of the scenes were filmed within these studios, with Studio C's exterior serving as the facade of Degrassi Community School, mirroring the colors and glass pattern of Centennial College. The area in front of this facade transformed into a "hoarding area," a familiar gathering spot for the students, complete with a street and bus stop across the road. The studio's backlot served as the backdrop for exterior shots of the characters' homes and The Dot Grill. Each unit was meticulously designed to portray distinct houses. Meanwhile, the soundstages were utilized for filming interior scenes, including those set in the school and the characters' residences.
Toronto's vibrant cityscape served as the backdrop for the series, providing an authentic feel and anchoring the series in its Canadian roots. A visit to the filming locations of Degrassi: The Next Generation would give fans a deeper connection to the series, allowing them to explore the real-life settings that shaped their favorite characters' lives. It's a trip that offers more than just sightseeing; it's a walk through television history and a chance to experience firsthand the places that made Degrassi such a compelling watch.
Marco meets Dylan scene in Degrassi: The Next Generation
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
In Season 3's "Pride: Part 1," Marco (Adamo Ruggiero) confronts his struggles. Marco has always grappled with his identity, as he is known for being "one of the guys" and having been in a long-term relationship with Ellie (Stacey Farber). However, in this particular episode, when the group decides to go to the beach, Paige (played by Lauren Collins) introduces her openly gay older brother, Dylan (John Francis Bregar). Marco seems to show interest in Dylan, which sparks speculation about Marco's sexuality.
Although the specific locations for this scene are not disclosed, a significant portion of the series was filmed in different areas of Toronto. Fans have the opportunity to discover the city's vibrant neighborhoods, such as Little Italy or Chinatown, and may chance upon settings that evoke memories of the series' filming sites.
Toronto, one of Canada's largest cities, is a vibrant blend of modernity and heritage. With glitzy malls, towering skyscrapers, serene gardens, and picturesque lakeshores, it offers numerous attractions for visitors. The city's rich cultural tapestry is also reflected in its various international events, including the renowned Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the National Ballet of Canada performances.
To experience Toronto, you can arrive at the globally connected Toronto Pearson International Airport. Once there, you have various options to navigate the city: utilize public transportation, opt for taxis, or embrace the convenience of ride-sharing services.
The shooting at the school scene in Degrassi: The Next Generation
Degrassi Community School, 220 Bartley Dr, Toronto, ON M4A 1G1, Canada
The episode "Time Stands Still: Part 2" from season 4 is perhaps one of the most shocking and significant episodes in the series' history. After becoming an outcast due to his actions against Terri (Christina Schmidt), Rick (Ephraim Ellis) returns to Degrassi High, covered in paint and feathers, seeking revenge against those who tormented him. A chilling scene unfolds as Rick, guided by misinformation, confronts Jimmy (Drake) at his locker, gun in hand. The tension peaks when Rick, full of anger, accuses Jimmy of betrayal, saying, "You stabbed me in the back."
Like many others in the series, this intense scene was filmed at Epitome Pictures' expansive, 100,000-square-foot production studios in Toronto. The meticulously crafted sets in Studios A and C authentically replicate a high school environment. From the Degrassi Community School facade, which mirrors Centennial College's aesthetic, to the hallways adorned with phrases such as "the perfect human being is all human," the setting breathes life into the narrative. The cafeteria, purposefully designed to be bland, contrasts with the rest of the beautifully designed school.
To visit the iconic filming locations of Degrassi: The Next Generation, one must travel to Toronto, Ontario. The city is easily accessible via various modes of transportation, including public transit, taxis, and ride-sharing services. The Degrassi Community School is located in the Bermondsey part and is accessible by car, taxi, or bus. However, it is essential to note that the studios may not be open to the public, so checking in advance is advisable.
Emma, Manny, and Liberty attend the dorm at the university scene in Degrassi: The Next Generation
York University, 4700 Keele St, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
In Season 8, the series continues to delve into the relatable experiences and challenges young adults face. As the ninth graders navigate their new environment, Smithdale University students Emma (Miriam McDonald), Liberty (Sarah Barrable-Tishauer), and Manny (Cassie Steele) also explore their new surroundings. In the first episode of this season, a mix-up in room assignments at the Smithdale dorm leads to tension among Emma, Manny, and Liberty. Their mystery roommate, Kelly (Evan Williams), adds to the intrigue.
Like many others set at Smithdale University, this scene was filmed at York University's Keele Campus in Toronto. As Canada's third-largest public research university, York University offers a variety of faculties, from Liberal Arts and Fine Arts to Business, Law, Environmental Studies, Science and Engineering, Education, and Health. Its Keele Campus, located in North York, within the neighborhood now known as York University Heights, served as a fitting backdrop for the Smithdale University scenes.
Travel to the Keele Campus of York University in Toronto, Ontario. The campus is accessible via various modes of transport, including public transit, taxis, and ride-sharing services. Certain areas may not be publicly open as an active university campus without prior permission.
Conclusion
Degrassi: The Next Generation (2001-2015) is a tour de force in the realm of teen drama series. Filmed primarily at Epitome Pictures' expansive 100,000-square-foot production studios in Toronto, the series has leveraged this space to create an authentic and immersive world. The meticulously designed backlot and soundstages have given life to the Degrassi universe, providing a tangible backdrop to the characters' experiences.
Degrassi's actors deliver praise-worthy performances, authentically embodying high school's emotional ups and downs, making viewers feel understood. The series' strength lies in its representation of typical high school experiences, tackling intense topics like teen pregnancy, abuse, and homosexuality, while also highlighting quieter moments, creating a balanced portrayal.
Regarding its impact on the movie industry, the series has established a remarkable benchmark for teen dramas. Its unwavering dedication to authenticity, not only in its storytelling but also in its physical setting, has pushed the boundaries and inspired other shows to do the same.
The range of locations used in filming Degrassi: The Next Generation, mainly within the vast Epitome Pictures' production studios, provided a versatile and authentic setting for the series. The studios' meticulous design mirrored the multifaceted nature of the series, from the vibrant school scenes to the intimate moments at the characters' homes.
As for recommendations, Degrassi: The Next Generation is worth watching for fans of the teen TV series. Its unflinching portrayal of teen life, compelling performances, and well-crafted script make it a standout in its genre. It's a series that can be enjoyed on multiple levels, whether engaged or casually multitasking. So, if you're up for a trip down the tumultuous road of adolescence, Degrassi: The Next Generation’s filming locations might inspire your next vacation adventures.