Filming of the reality television show “Paradise Hotel” has been temporarily paused in Jalisco, Mexico, following a period of unrest triggered by the death of a prominent cartel leader. The suspension of production prioritizes the safety of cast and crew amid escalating violence and instability in the region.
On Sunday, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” was killed during a military operation. His death has been followed by outbreaks of violence, including reports of arson and the erection of roadblocks, according to reports from Expressen.
“Production personnel and participants’ safety is always our highest priority,” said Susanne Nylén, press officer for Viaplay, in a statement. While the immediate filming location is not considered directly threatened, preventative security measures have been implemented. “The filming location is not exposed, but we have taken certain security measures as a precaution,” Nylén added, according to Göteborgs-Posten.
The disruption to “Paradise Hotel” is the latest example of how ongoing instability in Mexico impacts international productions. Aftonbladet notes that filming of “Paradise Hotel” and “Bachelor” have previously been affected by unrest. For nearly two decades, the Mexican military has been engaged in conflict with drug cartels, and individuals involved in Swedish productions have previously reported feeling unsafe. One former contestant, Stephane Frick, was reportedly robbed at gunpoint while filming “Bachelor” in Mexico.
Sweden’s embassy in Mexico has issued a warning to citizens in the state of Jalisco, advising them to follow local authorities’ instructions and avoid large gatherings, as the situation remains fluid. The Göteborgs-Posten reports that several football matches have likewise been postponed due to the ongoing chaos.
The pause in production underscores the challenges of filming in regions affected by organized crime and political instability, and highlights the increasing risks faced by international film crews operating in Mexico.
