Running Point filming locations and Los Angeles authenticity shine in Netflix’s sports comedy, delivering a vibrant, immersive binge-worthy experience.

Okay, let's talk about Running Point, Netflix's hit sports comedy that just dropped its second season in 2026. As a huge fan of the show, I gotta say, one of the things that makes it so damn bingeable is how real it feels. You're following Kate Hudson's character, Isla Gordon, as she stumbles her way into becoming president of the fictional L.A. Waves basketball team. The chaos, the comedy, the struggle in a male-dominated industry—it all hits different because it feels grounded. And a massive part of that vibe comes from where they chose to film. Spoiler alert: It wasn't on some generic soundstage. They went all-in on Los Angeles, and honestly, it was a total power move.

The Unwavering Commitment to L.A.

So, here's the tea straight from the source. Showrunner David Stassen was super intentional about this from day one. In interviews back when Season 1 was filming, he straight-up said the plan was always to shoot in Los Angeles. This wasn't just about aesthetics; it was a conscious decision with some serious heart behind it. Following some of those devastating wildfires a few years back, there was a big push in the industry to support and invest in filming locally in L.A. Stassen and the team wanted to be part of that. They weren't just telling a story about L.A.; they were putting their money where their mouth was and filming in L.A. That's what I call walking the walk. And let me tell you, it paid off big time for the show's authenticity.

Iconic L.A. Locations You'll Spot

Forget green screens and fake backlots. Running Point takes you to the real deal. The production team snagged access to some iconic spots that scream Los Angeles sports and business. Here's a quick rundown of where the magic happens:

• UCLA Health Training Center: This is where you see all those intense team practices and locker room pep talks. The sweat, the grind, it feels legit because it is a legit training facility.

• Los Angeles Athletic Club: Hello, old-school glamour and power lunches! This historic club is the perfect backdrop for those high-stakes business meetings and networking scenes. You can almost smell the ambition (and the expensive whiskey).

• The Ritz-Carlton Hotel: Where else would you film scenes about luxury, deals, and the high life? This spot adds that layer of glitz and pressure that Isla has to navigate.

Using these actual locations isn't just for show—it injects a layer of texture and realism that you can't fake. When characters are walking down a street or having a conversation in a cafe, you're seeing real L.A. light, real L.A. energy. It's a vibe, fr.

The One Scottish Curveball 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Alright, time for a plot twist! While 99.9% of the filming was done in Los Angeles, there is one hilarious exception that proves the rule. Remember the epic exterior shots of the Los Angeles Waves' home stadium? The one that looks massive and intimidating?

Surprise! That's not in California. That majestic arena is actually the OVO Hydro in Glasgow, Scotland! Mind = blown, right? Now, before you start imagining the cast and crew flying to Scotland for a full shoot, hold up. They didn't film any scenes with actors there. This was purely for establishing shots—those wide, beautiful angles that set the scene. Sometimes, you need a specific look for a fictional stadium that you just can't find locally, so you get creative! It's a fun little secret that adds to the show's charm.

What This Means for Season 2 and Beyond

Given the massive success of Season 1 and the glowing reviews about its authentic feel, it was a no-brainer for Season 2 to double down on this strategy. Stassen's comments made it clear: supporting L.A. through local production is part of the show's DNA now. It's impressive, and honestly a bit rare these days, for a show to commit so fully to one location. Most productions would hop around to different states or even countries to save a buck. But Running Point said 'nah, we're doing this for real.'

This commitment does a few awesome things:

1. Boosts the Local Economy: More jobs for L.A. crews, more business for local vendors. It's a win for the community.

2. Enhances Storytelling: The writers can write for specific, real locations, making the story feel organic.

3. Creates a Signature Look: The show has a distinct visual identity that's inseparable from the city itself.

In a world where so much content feels generic and filmed nowhere-in-particular, Running Point's dedication to its setting is a breath of fresh air. It shows that where you film matters. It's not just a backdrop; it's a character. And as we dive into the new season in 2026, that authenticity is what keeps us coming back for more. Can't wait to see what other real L.A. spots they feature next! 🙌