5 behind-the-scenes facts that made 'Roswell' out of this world
What's the story
We all remember how Roswell, a science fiction TV series, intrigued viewers with its plot about teenage aliens in Roswell, New Mexico. The aliens strived to assimilate with humans, leaving an interesting mix of mystery and drama. Here, we unveil five behind-the-scenes facts that added to the show's allure, offering insights into its creation and impact.
Real-life inspiration
The real Roswell connection
The series drew inspiration from real-life events of the alleged UFO crash in Roswell, New Mexico, in 1947. The incident gave rise to several conspiracy theories and became a staple of UFO folklore. The creators took this historical backdrop and weaved a fictional narrative that appealed to viewers enamored with extraterrestrial life and the ensuing government cover-up.
Casting decisions
Casting choices and changes
Initially, a few roles were cast differently before finalizing the main characters. For example, Katherine Heigl was not originally considered for her role as Isabel Evans but impressed producers during auditions. These casting decisions played a crucial role in shaping character dynamics and contributed significantly to the show's success.
Diverse locations
Filming locations beyond New Mexico
Although set in Roswell, New Mexico, much of Roswell was filmed in California because of budget constraints and logistical reasons. Different locations around Los Angeles doubled as parts of Roswell's landscape. This decision allowed for greater flexibility in shooting schedules while keeping things authentic for viewers.
Musical influence
Music's impact on storytelling
Music also played an integral role in setting moods throughout episodes of Roswell. The show's soundtrack featured songs from popular artists at that time, which helped convey emotions effectively within scenes without overshadowing dialogue or plot development. This enhanced the overall storytelling quality, something that was appreciated by fans worldwide.
Viewer support
Fan campaigns saved the show from cancellation
Facing the threat of cancellation after Season 2 because of poor ratings relative to other shows on networks such as WB Television Network (now CW), passionate fans initiated campaigns. They appealed to executives to reconsider their decision, resulting in the series's renewal for a third season. All thanks to passionate viewer support highlighted through letters and emails sent directly to studio heads in the production process.