Dakota Johnson Boards “Trudy Blue” — New Series Enters Pre-Production with Hiring Opportunities Ahead

An intriguing new drama series, Trudy Blue, is officially in pre-production, with Dakota Johnson attached to star in the lead role. The project is quietly building momentum, with early-stage prep now underway as producers begin assembling department heads and locking down initial production logistics.

Trudy Blue is based on the acclaimed novel by Alice Hoffman and blends psychological depth with an emotionally driven narrative, centered around a woman navigating grief, self-discovery, and the boundary between reality and imagination. While plot specifics are still under wraps, insiders hint that the series will balance grounded drama with surreal visual elements — making it an especially compelling opportunity for production designers, art departments, and visual effects teams.

Johnson, known for her work in Suspiria, The Lost Daughter, and Madame Web, brings both dramatic gravitas and an executive producer's touch to the project. She’s teaming up with a production group that includes veteran creatives and up-and-coming talent, signaling a strong balance of experience and fresh storytelling energy. Early reports suggest this will be a limited series, potentially spanning 6 to 8 episodes, though nothing has been confirmed regarding episode count.

Filming is currently expected to begin in the first half of 2025, with scouts and producers narrowing in on locations in the northeastern United States, particularly in Massachusetts and upstate New York. These areas offer the atmospheric, moody backdrops the story requires, while also providing strong local crew bases and access to regional production incentives.

Preliminary hires are already in motion, and department leads across art direction, cinematography, and wardrobe are expected to be locked soon. With the show’s visual tone expected to shift between dreamlike sequences and grounded emotional scenes, camera crews and lighting departments will likely be tasked with versatile setups, and editors will need to balance a fluid narrative structure with moments of surrealism.

Given the intimate nature of the story, casting for supporting roles and background extras may begin early in the new year. Casting directors will be seeking character-driven performers with emotional range, and depending on the final shooting schedule, there may be recurring opportunities for local hires and day players in supporting arcs.

With Dakota Johnson’s growing presence as both an actor and producer, and the high-concept emotional weight of Trudy Blue, this is shaping up to be one of the more artistically ambitious limited series on the horizon. It’s a project that will likely draw attention not only from viewers, but from below-the-line professionals looking for rewarding work on a series with heart and vision.

ProductionList.com will be tracking this title closely as more crew positions are posted and production dates finalize. Members can expect access to verified contacts, production office details, and hiring timelines as the project ramps up in the months ahead.

Click here for production info or to contact producers