A curated selection of the finest television shows set in North Carolina has been compiled by BetCarolina.com, a North Carolina sports betting website. By employing a comprehensive scoring mechanism that accounts for IMDb ratings, Rotten Tomatoes Audience and Critic scores, as well as awards recognition, the site has showcased the state’s TV landscape.
Despite Wilmington’s prolific involvement in numerous film and TV projects, only two locally crafted shows from the Port City managed to clinch spots in the BetCarolina.com’s coveted top 10 lineup.
Sitting at the pinnacle of this list is “The Andy Griffith Show,” which celebrates the fictitious town of Mayberry, inspired by actor Andy Griffith’s own Mount Airy hometown. A true classic, the show continues to charm audiences with its quaint small-town humor and heartfelt stories.
Taking the runner-up position is “At Home with Amy Sedaris.” This imaginative show combines humor and creativity in a unique format that resonates with viewers.
The locally cherished “One Tree Hill” captures the tenth spot on the list. This adored series, set in the fictional town of Tree Hill, showcased the talents of actors Chad Michael Murray and James Lafferty. Over its nine-season run from 2003 to 2013, totaling 288 episodes, Wilmington served as the backdrop for many scenes, with notable filming locations including Battleship North Carolina and the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
Claiming the respectable third rank is “Eastbound and Down,” a comedy centered around Kenny Powers, a former major league baseball player who becomes a substitute gym teacher upon his return to his Shelby hometown. While parts of the second season were filmed in Mexico, Wilmington played a significant role in flashback scenes. The city’s cultural landmarks such as the Cameron Art Museum, Carolina Beach, and Maides Park featured prominently in the series. The show concluded its journey with a final season shot in July 2013 in Wilmington.
Notably, other Wilmington-based TV ventures set outside of North Carolina, such as “Dawson’s Creek” (Cape Cod area) and “Matlock” (Atlanta), did not make the list, highlighting the distinction between filming location and narrative setting.
BetCarolina.com’s compilation continues to honor North Carolina’s rich television history, celebrating the diversity and creativity embedded within the state’s cultural fabric.
