‘Star Trek’ Finds a Home in Canada: How Toronto Became the Franchise’s Production Hub
Toronto has become a central hub for the beloved Star Trek franchise, with multiple series and films now being produced in the city and surrounding areas. The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has embraced its role as a sci-fi hotspot, contributing to the resurgence of the iconic series in recent years.
Mayor Olivia Chow, a longtime Star Trek fan, proudly displays a model of the USS Toronto in her office, a testament to the franchise’s connection with the city. “It creates a large number of jobs and economic benefits in the millions, so it’s absolutely wonderful,” Chow said, delivering a Vulcan salute with her left hand.
The production boom began with Star Trek: Discovery in 2017, filmed at Pinewood Toronto Studios. During its final season, one of Pinewood’s massive sound stages was officially renamed the “Star Trek Stage.” The franchise’s presence expanded with Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, filmed at a CBS studio in Mississauga, and the upcoming Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, also shot at Pinewood.
Ontario’s diverse landscapes have been integral to creating the otherworldly environments central to the franchise. From Stelco in Hamilton to conservation areas and quarries, producers have found the province ideal for portraying alien worlds.
John Weber, president of Toronto-based Take 5 Productions and an executive producer for Star Trek, credits the region’s talent pool, infrastructure, and competitive tax incentives for attracting the franchise. “It’s not just one factor. It’s the whole ecosystem that makes Ontario a strong jurisdiction for film and television,” Weber said.
Ontario offers 3.8 million square feet of studio space, primarily in the GTA, with plans to expand to 6.3 million square feet by 2026. These facilities, combined with robust provincial and federal tax credits, make Toronto a competitive alternative to Los Angeles, which boasts 7.3 million square feet of studio space.
The local film industry’s depth is another draw. Ontario’s crews, from camera operators to art directors, are recognized globally for their expertise, often outperforming other regions in their ability to support simultaneous productions.
Toronto’s mayor is optimistic about the long-term presence of Star Trek and other major productions. “We’ll all live long and prosper,” Chow quipped, referencing the franchise’s famous motto.
From Star Trek to other global hits like The Boys, The Handmaid’s Tale, and The Umbrella Academy, Toronto has cemented its reputation as a world-class destination for film and television production.