A Look Inside the World of "Midnight"

Welcome to Palm Springs

Join Nathan Lane, Nathan Lee Graham, and Matt Bulmer as they welcome viewers into their stunning Palm Springs home, the set of "Midnight." This is where the cast kits, hangs out, and brings to life the situations and comedy of the show. A lot of drama and exposition take place in this central room.

The Characters and Their Home

Bunny Schneiderman's World

Nathan Lane portrays Bunny Schneiderman, a wealthy and successful manufacturer of women's bras. Bunny has built this palatial home where he lives with his mother and invites his two closest friends, Jerry and Arthur, to live with him. Although they live together, the characters frequently communicate via FaceTime.

Design Inspiration

The show embraces a classic Palm Springs aesthetic. The mid-century modern architecture is inspired by a Wexler house, specifically the "dinosaur estate" from the late 50s and early 60s. The sunken living room is designed to be a gathering place where the characters can hang out and enjoy happy hour. The decor maintains a classy, quirky Palm Springs vibe.

Set Decoration Details

Peter Gerski, the set decorator, skillfully mixes styles. Details such as Kenzo-style serving napkins and a bourbon-filled horse add character. Notably, the flowers on the set are always real. The gathering spaces around the bar and living room are integral to showcasing the love between the three men. The production team had to make some sacrifices for comedy, as a penis sculpture was removed at the network's request.

Behind the Scenes with the Production Designers

Hidden Treasures and Easter Eggs

Peter Gerski, the decorator, and Greg Grande, the production designer, reveal some of the set's hidden treasures. They blend current pieces, like CB2 sconces, with mid-century finds to create a cohesive style. In the dining room, there is a sculpture that was also featured on Will and Grace. This adds a fun element to the design.

Palm Springs: A Haven and Inspiration

Palm Springs became a haven for gay men and retirees, inspiring the show's theme. The show focuses on long-time friends who choose to become each other's chosen family in the absence of traditional families. This modern yet classic aesthetic is reflected in the architecture, described in the script as a "white-on-white-on-white dinosaur extravaganza."

Old Hollywood Chic

The production team aimed for an old Hollywood chic design, featuring Terzo floors and Billy Haines-style furniture. A painting of Linda Lavin, by her husband Steve Bakunis, serves as a special tribute to her. A former tribute of her is now a special moment with her.

Technical Considerations

The backdrop for the set was chosen quickly during the pilot phase. The production team works to make the set as believable as possible, paying attention to lighting and furniture arrangements. The pool backdrop is enhanced by furniture and lighting to create a realistic morning, evening, or dusk effect.

Exploring the Kitchen and Den

The Kitchen: A Functional and Organic Space

The set decoration is always amazing, with real, fresh fruits and vegetables. Sometimes actors would be fed food through a tube while they rummaged through Tupperware. The kitchen features a Frigidaire flare oven, reminiscent of the production designer's grandmother's kitchen. A vintage O'Keefe and Merritt stove, complete with pull-out burners, adds to the authenticity. The working Subzero refrigerator keeps food fresh for the actors. A vintage plate that says "Eat Shit" is often hidden as a fun little detail.

The Cozy Den: Character Through Environment

The den is designed to be a cozy, cocoon-like space. It is furnished with comfortable furniture that informs the actors' physicality. The environment supports the actors, allowing them to embody their characters fully. A well-designed set helps establish the characters and their lives.

Linda's Office

Linda's desk and office area is another significant space in the set. The whimsical nature of the Palm Springs decor is reflected in details like the lampshade. A Gordian knot symbolizes the writing process. There is also a fun aspect to the show, such as when they are playing gay poker.

Creating Intimacy and Backstory

The End of Show Moments

The room is curated to create the moments at the end of the show with greater intimacy. Vintage artwork and furniture add character. The Easter eggs include a cup of reader glasses on her desk that resemble the late Linda Lavin's real desk and Lingerie Awards from Bunny's company.

Swing Sets

The "home base" is the living room and kitchen area. Swing sets, which change each episode, are also important. In this episode, Cyb's bedroom is featured. This involved creating believable windows, wallpaper, lighting, and flooring. Other sets have included a country club and a pickleball court.

The Grotto and Hot Tub

Simulating Bottomless Fun

The grotto features a hot tub, designed to simulate the characters being in their birthday suits. The temperature in the hot tub varies.

Hot Tub Design

The design of the jacuzzi started with researching real hot tubs, but they were modified to be more comfortable for filming. The team built a custom hot tub and incorporated it into the backyard with rockscapes and plant life. The lighting in this area and the succulents enhance the visual appeal.

Layering and Depth

Lighting is layered to create texture and depth. A unique lighting fixture, created by combining five singular lights, is now sold on CB2 as the "Peter Gerski collection." The collaboration between the design team results in a set where everyone trusts and relies on each other. The spaces feel lived-in and specific, avoiding generic design.

The Art and Cultural References

Meaningful Art Choices

The art on the walls includes Her Britz's photograph of Fred with tires, an iconic piece by a gay photographer. The bee on the wall is a nod to Mary Tyler Moore and the "M" in her apartment. These details are meant to be appreciated by the audience, especially those familiar with gay culture and classic television.

Gratitude and Restoration Comedy

The Joy of the Production

The cast often gathers backstage, nervously anticipating the show. The actors hold hands before going on stage. This has been one of the happiest experiences in their careers. It's about gratitude, good work, and enjoying themselves.

Linda Lavin's Insight

Linda Lavin described the show as "restoration comedy," which captures the essence of playing the truth with a connection to the audience.

The Ultimate Hope

The ultimate hope for the show is to "turn America gay." The production team hopes that viewers will find themselves feeling a little more gay after watching "Midnight."