‘Hell on Wheels’ season 4: More on recasting, filming preparation

If you’re like us as a “Hell on Wheels” viewer, it’s been a long, cold winter. There isn’t too much news to report when the show isn’t filming or airing, but the time for that is ending this month. There’s also a nice bit of symbolism when it comes to the fact that the show films in Calgary, and at around the time that it is time to shoot some new episodes, the place is just starting to thaw out.

The big news that you may still be reeling from last week is that Siobhan Williams, who was originally cast for the Naomi part, was unable to continue on thanks to some other scheduled comments. This is why MacKenzie Porter has now officially taken on the part.

We already shared some reaction from Williams herself on having to say goodbye to the character, but here is the take on Twitter from writer-producer John Wirth:

“As you’ve heard @siobhanw_ is leaving us this season. We LOVE Siobhan, will miss her and curse the scheduling gods! … At the same time we WELCOME the amazing MacKenzie Porter to our family!”

Wirth also confirmed that the first day of prep took place a little earlier in the week, which brings us closer than ever to the beginning of a busy several months filming the show. There is no firm premiere date yet, but you can probably expect something along the lines of August, given that is when season 3 premiered. The show is also going to likely remain on Saturday nights, which we at first disliked but now fully embraced. There’s no real competition, and therefore an opportunity to carve out a following of people willing to watch live. There are still chances to go out and party afterwards!