Lights, camera, Vancouver! The TD Tower in downtown Vancouver just got a star-studded glow-up as CBS kicked off production on its highly anticipated Mom & Son pilot. With Emmy-winner Marcia Gay Harden and Broadway-turned-TV star Skylar Astin leading the cast, this new CBS project is already turning heads—on and off the screen.
But what’s this pilot all about? Why is Vancouver once again the go-to filming location? And what makes this mother-son story different from anything else on TV right now?
Let’s dive into everything we know—and more.
What’s the Buzz About the CBS “Mom & Son” Pilot?
A Fresh Take on Family Dynamics
CBS is leaning into a rich vein of relatable storytelling with this one. The Mom & Son pilot explores the emotional push-pull between a strong-willed, sometimes-overbearing mother and her grown son, both navigating the messy, funny, and heartwarming complexities of adult relationships.
Think “Gilmore Girls” Meets “The Good Doctor”
What if Lorelai and Rory Gilmore grew up… and traded places? Harden and Astin’s characters are rumored to be tackling career changes, emotional baggage, and the kind of heartfelt arguments only family can deliver.
Star Power: The Cast You Can’t Ignore
Marcia Gay Harden — The Matriarch with Grit
Known for her award-winning roles in Mystic River, Pollock, and Code Black, Harden brings depth and edge to the role of the mother. She’s no stranger to complex characters—and this one is set to be unforgettable.
Skylar Astin — From Pitch Perfect to Perfect Timing
Astin’s fans know him from Pitch Perfect, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend. With charm and vulnerability, he’s poised to bring emotional nuance to the son’s character, making the mother-son dynamic genuinely binge-worthy.
Vancouver: The Star Behind the Scenes
Why TD Tower Was the Perfect Choice
Sleek, modern, and reflective—TD Tower offers a metropolitan backdrop perfect for a CBS drama. With panoramic city views and crisp architecture, it’s a symbolic choice for a story rooted in ambition and personal growth.
A City That Doubles As Everywhere
Vancouver’s been Hollywood North for years. Its ability to mimic New York, Chicago, or even L.A. makes it a logistical dream for productions. But more than that, it brings a unique aesthetic that’s polished yet approachable.
Filming Details: What We Know So Far
On-Location Action and Set Sightings
Local reports spotted trailers, lighting rigs, and bustling film crews around the TD Tower starting early April 2025. Harden and Astin were both seen filming key scenes that involved emotional confrontations in a business setting—possibly hinting at the workplace angle of the storyline.
Day Shoots and Night Drama
Production seems to be taking advantage of Vancouver’s springtime daylight for external shots, while nighttime scenes hint at dramatic office confrontations, late-night phone calls, and emotional revelations.
Behind the Scenes: What Insiders Are Saying
A Strong Script with Emotional Weight
Rumors from within the CBS writers’ room suggest the script is equal parts sharp dialogue and heartfelt emotion. Think: snappy comebacks between mother and son, layered with unexpected tenderness.
Potential Series Pickup? Signs Point to Yes
While it’s only a pilot for now, early buzz from industry insiders suggests CBS may be eyeing this one as a potential series for late 2025 or early 2026.
Why This Show Could Be a Game-Changer for CBS
Diversifying Their Drama Slate
CBS has long been the home for procedural dramas and sitcoms, but Mom & Son could be their ticket into the emotionally intelligent, family-focused dramedy space—a niche currently dominated by streaming giants.
A Relatable Story for Multiple Generations
What happens when your mom becomes your roommate? Or your boss? Or your best friend—and worst critic—all rolled into one? This show promises to explore the kind of modern relationships we all recognize but rarely see portrayed honestly on network TV.
What Makes This Show Different?
It’s Not Just Another Family Drama
Let’s face it—TV’s full of dysfunctional families. But Mom & Son seems to be focused on emotional healing, personal growth, and mutual understanding—without skimping on wit or realism.
Strong Female Lead, Without Stereotypes
Harden’s character isn’t just a “mom with an attitude”—she’s a woman with a past, a plan, and possibly a few regrets. It’s about time we saw more characters like her leading prime-time shows.
The Social Media Factor
Fans Are Already Talking
Clips and behind-the-scenes photos have started circulating on Instagram, Reddit, and X (formerly Twitter), with fans of both actors eagerly sharing speculation, excitement, and memes.
Hashtags to Watch
Look out for #MomAndSonCBS, #MarciaGayHarden, #SkylarAstin, and #TDTowerDrama. With the right marketing push, this show could dominate TikTok trends and fan pages.
Will It Make the Fall Lineup?
Network Testing and Feedback
CBS will likely gauge audience response to the pilot before committing to a full season. But given the cast, the script buzz, and the production quality, it’s hard to imagine this not getting greenlit.
A Safe Bet with Heart
Networks love shows that are both critically respected and emotionally resonant. Mom & Son seems to hit both notes with ease.
What This Means for Vancouver’s Film Scene
A Continued Boom in Local Productions
This pilot is yet another win for Vancouver, solidifying its reputation as a production powerhouse. The city’s skilled crew base, tax incentives, and diverse scenery make it an unbeatable filming destination.
More Star Sightings to Come?
With CBS setting up camp, who knows what (or who) might film next at the TD Tower?
Conclusion: A Show With Heart, Humor, and Huge Potential
In a TV landscape that’s saturated with crime dramas and reality fluff, Mom & Son feels like a breath of fresh air. With powerhouse performances, an emotionally intelligent script, and the visual backdrop of Vancouver’s sleekest skyscraper, it’s poised to become CBS’s next big thing.
Whether you’re a fan of intimate family dramas or just love seeing your city on the screen, keep an eye out for this pilot. It might just steal your heart—and your DVR space.
