Leighton Meester, best known for her role in ‘Gossip Girl’, delved into Scottish culture while filming for the second season of ‘The Buccaneers’. The 39-year-old actress portrayed the character Nell in the Apple TV+ period drama, which revolves around the lives of Nan (played by Kristine Frøseth) and Patti St. George (portrayed by Christina Hendricks). The setting for the show was various picturesque locations across Scotland. Much of the cast and crew were stationed in Edinburgh during the production of season 1. Meester found herself in the midst of locals who were familiar with the area and gladly shared recommendations for activities and dining spots. Reflecting on her experience, she humorously mentioned to PEOPLE that she was “fueled by Scottish beans and black pudding.”
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Meester’s co-stars, Frøseth and Hendricks, playfully recounted the ways in which the cast relaxed during their time on set. They highlighted that Meester was bombarded with restaurant suggestions, and together they visited places like Sylvan, Glorias Fast Food, and Crabshakk while in Scotland. Clearly in good spirits, Meester expressed her satisfaction with the vegetarian and vegan restaurant, Sylvan. The palpable camaraderie extended beyond mealtimes, with Hendricks noting Meester’s keenness and readiness to dive into work as soon as she arrived in Scotland. The co-stars engaged in thorough discussions with the director, ensuring a deep understanding of their characters and their journeys within the storyline.
Frøseth affectionately dubbed Meester as the “problem solver,” attributing her quick thinking and innovative ideas for enriching the collaborative process. Meester’s active involvement in shaping scenes and character dynamics was lauded by her peers. Despite the demanding filming schedule, Meester balanced work with personal exploration. She frequented the Royal Museum of Scotland during breaks, further immersing herself in the local culture. The cast’s downtime was a mix of relaxation and bonding. They shared common spaces like the green room, indulging in card games, music sessions, and some quiet reading.
The light-hearted atmosphere behind the scenes mirrored the camaraderie displayed on screen. Hendricks recollected the sight of various costumes strewn about the room, a testament to the period drama setting. The actors found moments of respite, shedding the layers of Victorian attire during breaks. Laughter and camaraderie served as a refreshing contrast to the intricate costumes and intense scenes they filmed. As the second season of ‘The Buccaneers’ unfolds on Apple TV+, viewers can expect an even deeper connection among the cast, translating into compelling performances on screen. Meester’s palpable energy and enthusiasm, fueled by Scottish delicacies and the vibrant setting, undoubtedly enhance the overall dynamics of the show.
In conclusion, Leighton Meester’s Scottish adventure on the sets of ‘The Buccaneers’ not only added a flavourful twist to her filming experience but also underscored the importance of camaraderie and cultural immersion in creative processes. The blend of work and play, evident in the interactions between the cast members, contributed to a rich and fulfilling production journey. Meester’s wit and problem-solving skills shone through, earning her the title of the go-to “problem solver” on set. As the audience eagerly awaits the unfolding drama in season 2, the behind-the-scenes anecdotes offer a glimpse into the collaborative spirit that drives the success of the show. Through Meester’s candid reflections and her co-stars’ affectionate testimonials, the essence of teamwork and artistic exploration comes to life, weaving a narrative as engaging as the show itself.