Murderbot, a sci-fi action comedy series, premiered on Apple TV+ on May 16, 2025, with its first two episodes. Created by Chris and Paul Weitz, it’s based on Martha Wells’ The Murderbot Diaries, following a security android (Alexander Skarsgård) that hacks its programming, gains free will, and names itself Murderbot. Set in a dystopian future where humans colonize planets, the show blends humor and action as Murderbot protects scientists on a dangerous mission while preferring to watch soap operas.
The series, filmed entirely in Canada, uses striking visuals to create its futuristic world. Principal photography began in March 2024 and wrapped in June 2024, utilizing Toronto, Vancouver, and Elora as key locations. These cities, known for their film-friendly infrastructure, provide diverse backdrops, from high-tech urban settings to rugged outdoor scenes, enhancing the narrative’s otherworldly feel.
All Key Shooting Locations of Murderbot Revealed
Toronto, Ontario
Murderbot was primarily filmed in Toronto, the capital of Ontario. The series’ high-tech interiors, including space stations and research labs, were created using the city’s contemporary architecture and sound stages, which are known as “Hollywood North.”
The production team constructed custom sets that depict alien planets and futuristic colonies by utilizing Toronto’s tax incentives and facilities. Studios like Pinewood Toronto Studios were used to film important interior scenes, such as Murderbot’s encounters with scientists.
The dystopian setting was made more realistic by the city’s urban streets serving as busy colony outposts. The crew was able to create a convincing sci-fi world by skillfully combining digital effects and realistic sets thanks to Toronto’s adaptability. Additionally, the city has played host to shows like Star Trek: Discovery and The Expanse, so it’s a suitable
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver, located in British Columbia, was another major filming hub for Murderbot. Its state-of-the-art buildings and urban spaces were transformed into the series’ futuristic cityscapes, where corporate-controlled colonies operate. The production used Vancouver’s sound stages, such as those at Bridge Studios, to film complex scenes involving Murderbot’s combat sequences and ship interiors.
The city’s waterfront and industrial areas provided exteriors for scenes set on alien planets, emphasizing the show’s gritty tone. Vancouver’s film-friendly environment, with tax breaks and skilled crews, supported the series’ large-scale sets. The city’s minimalistic aesthetic helped create a sleek, futuristic look, distinct from Toronto’s busier vibe. Vancouver’s history of hosting sci-fi shows like Battlestar Galactica and Fringe made it ideal for Murderbot’s blend of action and satire.
Elora, Ontario
Elora, a small community in Centre Wellington, Ontario, was used for Murderbot’s outdoor scenes, particularly those depicting rugged, alien landscapes. The Elora Quarry Conservation Area, with its limestone gorge and natural beauty, provided a stark backdrop for scenes where Murderbot navigates hostile terrain.
The quarry’s rocky cliffs and water-filled basin were used to simulate extraterrestrial environments, enhancing the series’ exploration sequences. Elora’s historical limestone architecture was minimally featured, with the focus on its natural features. The area’s quiet, isolated setting allowed the crew to film without urban distractions, ensuring a controlled shoot.
Elora has also appeared in films like It and Lars and the Real Girl, showcasing its versatility. The quarry’s unique geology added a raw, untamed feel to Murderbot’s planetary settings, contrasting with the urban locations.
Recap of Murderbot Episodes 1, 2, and 3
The first three episodes, streaming on Apple TV+ since May 16, 2025, introduce a self-hacked security android (Alexander Skarsgård) on a dangerous mission. In episode 1, FreeCommerce, Murderbot, having disabled its governor module, joins the PreservationAux team, led by Mensah (Noma Dumezweni), to survey an alien planet.
It hides its autonomy while protecting scientists like Pin-Lee (Sabrina Wu) and Ratthi (Akshay Khanna), who annoy it with their friendliness. A giant creature attacks, and Murderbot saves a scientist, noticing missing survey data about local dangers. It distracts itself with soap operas like The Rise and Fall of Sanctuary Moon.
Episode 2, untitled in sources, escalates as the team loses contact with the DeltFall expedition. Murderbot, skeptical but compliant, escorts Mensah and others to investigate. Gurathin (David Dastmalchian), an augmented human, suspects Murderbot’s odd behavior. At DeltFall’s habitat, Murderbot finds the team slaughtered and is attacked by rogue SecUnits, revealing a sabotage plot. It’s injured but disables one attacker.
Episode 3, Risk Assessment, follows the team’s trek to DeltFall’s site. Murderbot, uneasy about human trust, retreats into Strife in the Galaxy. Ratthi’s probing questions about its feelings trigger anxiety, and Mensah intervenes. At DeltFall, Murderbot enters alone, confirming the massacre. A hostile SecUnit ambushes it, attempting to install a combat override module, hinting at an external controller. The episode ends with Murderbot in peril, setting up a larger conspiracy.
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Hilfa, Senior Writer at Hilvaro, excels in pop culture journalism. She crafts engaging content on movies, TV, & trends, fueled by her love for storytelling & entertainment.
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