Channel 5's Missed Call Filming Locations Revealed in Southern France
The gripping Channel 5 thriller Missed Call, starring acclaimed actress Joanna Scanlan, has captivated audiences with its intense storyline and atmospheric settings. This five-part series follows Sarah, played by Scanlan, as she desperately searches for her missing daughter Katie in the fictional coastal town of Saint-Michel, encountering hostility from the local Morvan family and uncovering long-buried secrets alongside a local detective.
All Filming Occurred in France Despite UK Scenes
Viewers might be surprised to learn that every scene in Missed Call was filmed in France, including those meant to represent England where Sarah anxiously awaits news about her daughter. While Saint-Michel is a fictional creation, the production team chose authentic locations in Southern France rather than Britain to establish the drama's unique atmosphere.
The cast and crew were primarily based in the vibrant city of Montpellier, situated in the Hérault department of Southern France. This sunny Mediterranean city is renowned for its medieval pedestrian center called L'Écusson and boasts one of Europe's oldest medical universities. Located just 10 kilometers from the Mediterranean coast, Montpellier provides easy access to stunning beaches that contribute to the series' visual appeal.
Historic Villeneuvette Served as Key Filming Location
A significant portion of filming took place at the historic Manufacture Royale de Villeneuvette, located near Montpellier. This former royal manufacturing village has been transformed into a popular tourist attraction while retaining its authentic French character. The production team shot numerous scenes at this location during summer 2025, capitalizing on the region's beautiful weather and architectural heritage.
Joanna Scanlan expressed particular enthusiasm about filming alongside French actors in authentic French locations. She told TV Guide that the experience enhanced the drama's sophistication and atmosphere, noting: "I think it adds a layer of class and sophistication to our mystery. I'm a huge lover of French cinema. It is probably my favourite."
Scanlan continued: "I thought it might also give oneself an inferiority complex, but, as it turned out, we had much more in common than I expected. You had to just work the scene for what it was. What the beats were in the storytelling and how the characters related to each other. That is nicely done between the French and British actors."
Production Details and International Broadcast
The series features a predominantly French supporting cast and will also broadcast in France with Joanna Scanlan's voice dubbed for local audiences. This international approach to production reflects the growing trend of cross-cultural television collaborations.
Missed Call continues to air on Channel 5 on weeknights at 9pm, offering viewers not only a compelling thriller narrative but also stunning visual backdrops from Southern France that significantly contribute to the series' distinctive atmosphere and appeal.
