In 2024, the state of Wisconsin left an indelible mark on television, showcasing its rich culture and diverse talent across both reality and scripted shows. From the picturesque landscapes featured in Bravo’s “Top Chef” to the fictional town of Point Place in Netflix’s sequel to “That '70s Show,” Wisconsin’s charm and heritage were prominently displayed. The Badger State also saw its residents shine on various competition series, including “Farmer Wants a Wife,” “The Bachelorette,” and “Dancing With the Stars.” Additionally, Milwaukee became a focal point for several productions, with its vibrant LGBTQ community and iconic landmarks making appearances in reality TV and crime dramas. This article delves into the most notable Wisconsin-connected TV shows of the year, highlighting the state’s growing influence in the entertainment industry.
Wisconsin Takes Center Stage in Reality and Scripted Shows
In the heart of autumn, when the leaves turned shades of amber and gold, Wisconsin captured the attention of television audiences nationwide. The Bravo network chose the state as the backdrop for a season of “Top Chef,” where chefs competed against each other while embracing the local cuisine, from cheese to fish boils. One of the top contenders was Milwaukee chef Dan Jacobs, who made it to the final three. Meanwhile, Netflix’s revival of “That '70s Show” brought the fictional town of Point Place back to life, though the second season had fewer references to the state. Still, a memorable episode featured the cast attending a wrestling convention in Milwaukee, adding a touch of nostalgia for fans.
The year also saw Wisconsin residents stepping into the spotlight. Grace Girard, a resident of Caledonia and a University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate, was selected by farmer Brandon Rogers on “Farmer Wants a Wife,” though their relationship didn’t last long. Jenn Tran, another UW-Madison alum, became the first Asian American lead on “The Bachelorette,” but her journey ended in heartbreak after proposing to Devin Strader. Despite this, Tran found success on “Dancing With the Stars,” even performing at a Taylor Swift concert in Canada. Joan Vassos, a former Marquette University lacrosse mom, found love again on “The Golden Bachelorette,” proving that there’s always hope for new beginnings.
Milwaukee also became a hot spot for filming. The cast of Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City” took a road trip to the city, hosting a party at the historic LGBTQ bar, This Is It!, owned by drag star Trixie Mattel. They also visited the Bucks game, Harley-Davidson Museum, and Miller Brewery tour, giving viewers a taste of Milwaukee’s vibrant culture. In a more somber note, Tubi’s series on hip-hop artists caught up in tragedy focused on the unsolved murders of Milwaukee hip-hop singer Yolanda “LaLa” Brown and her boyfriend-producer JeTannue Clayborn, shedding light on a dark chapter in the city’s history.
A Look at Other Notable Wisconsin Connections
Beyond reality TV, Wisconsin’s influence extended to various scripted shows and documentaries. David Leitch, a filmmaker from Kohler, collaborated with Keanu Reeves on a stunt-performer competition series on Peacock. Mel Eslyn, a native of Menomonee Falls, executive produced the Netflix documentary “American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders,” exploring a journalist’s death linked to a government conspiracy. Wausau East graduate Ross Jirgl portrayed NFL legend Tom Brady in FX’s sports/crime series about Aaron Hernandez. Meanwhile, Alaqua Cox, a member of the Menominee Nation, starred as the titular character in Marvel’s “Echo” on Disney+.
From comedies like “English Teacher,” where Milwaukee drag star Trixie Mattel taught football players how to do drag, to thrillers like “The Madness,” starring Madison native Bradley Whitford, Wisconsin’s talent continued to shine. Even documentaries like “M*A*S*H: The Comedy That Changed Television” and “Nobody Wants This,” produced by UW-Madison alumni, showcased the state’s contributions to television history. Finally, Green Bay native Zack Snyder launched “Twilight of the Gods,” an animated Netflix series inspired by Norse mythology, further cementing Wisconsin’s place in the world of entertainment.
As we reflect on 2024, it’s clear that Wisconsin’s impact on television has been profound. From its breathtaking landscapes to its talented residents, the state has proven that it can hold its own in the competitive world of entertainment. Whether through reality competitions or scripted dramas, Wisconsin continues to captivate audiences and inspire creators, ensuring that its unique voice will be heard for years to come.