Lea Thompson, a longtime Hollywood figure, has pursued bringing Nevada Barr's "Anna Pigeon" book series to the screen for over a decade. Initially, Thompson envisioned herself playing the lead role. After numerous setbacks, she found a collaborative partner in showrunner Morwyn Brebner.
Thompson met with many writers but found Brebner's sensibility regarding nature as a key element of the show particularly compelling. Once their shared vision was established, the focus shifted to casting the character of Anna Pigeon, a former Broadway stage manager turned park ranger who is navigating grief.
Tracy Spiridakos, known for her role in "Chicago P.D.," was the sole and preferred choice for Anna Pigeon. Although Spiridakos was not initially familiar with Barr's novels, she was drawn to the complexity of the character, noting her grief and her deep curiosity about the natural world.
Thompson advocated for filming the series in natural settings rather than on a sound stage. The production utilized a location in Canada featuring woods, a river, and cabins. The crew constructed a ranger station using materials from the surrounding environment, a process Thompson believes contributes to the show's authenticity. Spiridakos echoed this sentiment, stating that being immersed in the wilderness helped her embody the character, making the experience feel natural and grounded.
Thompson, who has directed for 20 years, expressed a desire to mentor and support younger women in the industry, a sentiment reciprocated by Spiridakos, who described Thompson as supportive and a guiding force.
Authenticity extended to Anna Pigeon's signature braid, a detail that required careful attention. Spiridakos used hair extensions initially as her own hair grew to match the character's description. Thompson noted that Spiridakos' natural presence and lack of focus on superficial elements were key factors in her casting.
The series was filmed on location in Canada, a decision Thompson prioritized to enhance the show's realism, despite budget constraints. The natural environment played a significant role in the narrative, serving as inspiration for Anna and aiding her in processing her grief. Spiridakos highlighted how moments like taking a deep breath of fresh air in the wild felt integral to the character.
Beyond the central character, the series explores Anna's relationship with her sister, Molly, played by Tricia Helfer. While their scenes initially occurred over the phone, the actors later had opportunities to film together, exploring the dynamic between the sisters.
The antagonist, Jeremiah Paulson, portrayed by Kim Coates, presents a challenge for Anna. Spiridakos described Anna as a persistent presence in Paulson's life, driven by her innate curiosity. Thompson praised Coates' surprising and effective performance in the role.
"Anna Pigeon" premiered on Friday, August 7, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on USA Network.