Prince Edward Island is set to host its largest television production ever this summer as the province gears up for the filming of a 10-episode series based on Canadian author Carley Fortune’s popular romance novel, “This Summer Will Be Different.” With an investment of $5 million from the province in the form of a rebate, the production will take place in both P.E.I. and Toronto.
During the announcement in Victoria, Robin Neinstein, Netflix Canada’s director of production management, emphasized the significance of filming on the Island, stating that P.E.I. is not just a backdrop in the story but a vital character in itself. The production is expected to create 75 job positions, including production assistants, painters, and caterers.
Rob Riselli, the executive director of Film P.E.I., highlighted that the series will showcase the beauty of the Island and could attract more productions to the region, boosting the local economy. Premier Rob Lantz hailed the news as a significant opportunity for the arts and culture sector of Prince Edward Island, emphasizing the chance to promote the island’s unique charm to a global audience.
Jenn Redmond, P.E.I.’s minister of economic development, expressed excitement about the partnership with Netflix, describing the filming as an investment in the province’s arts and culture industry. The production is expected to elevate P.E.I.’s presence in the film industry on a global scale.
Despite initial concerns raised by the Opposition, Premier Lantz confirmed that the production is moving forward without any doubts. The Netflix adaptation of “This Summer Will Be Different” is anticipated to draw attention to P.E.I., though the exact release date for the series to reach Netflix’s vast audience remains unknown.