More than 200 creatives, freelancers and industry professionals gathered at Elstree Studios for the Hertfordshire Crew Network Night recently, celebrating the country’s thriving film and television industry and the people behind the scenes.
Hosted by Hertfordshire Film Office the event brought together local crew members, production specialists and representatives to focus on local talent, strengthening industry connections and exploring opportunities for independent productions.
Cllr Jeremy Newmark, Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council. a keynote speaker at the event said:
“It was a real pleasure to be at Elstree Studios—one of the beating hearts of the UK’s screen industry—and to be surrounded by the people who actually make the magic happen.
“While audiences see the finished productions on screen, it is the crews, freelancers, technicians and production teams behind the scenes who make the success possible.
“Across the UK, the film and TV sector supports more than 200,000 jobs, and contributes more than £12 billion to the economy each year. In Hertsmere, we continue to punch above our weight with Elstree alone having hosted everything from Star Wars to The Crown.
“But behind those headline numbers are thousands of freelancers and contractors—people who move from production to production, often at pace, often at odd hours, and usually powered by coffee and sheer determination.
"They are the flexible backbone of this industry.
“Here in Hertsmere, we’re committed to supporting skills, creating opportunities, and making sure this area remains one of the best places in the world to work in film and television.
“Because the truth is, while audiences see the finished product, we see the people behind it. The runners who become producers. The trainees who become heads of department. The freelancers who keep the whole ecosystem moving.
“So thank you—for your talent, your resilience, and for choosing to bring your skills to this incredible industry and to this incredible place.
“And finally, I’ll just say this: next time you’re watching something filmed here, and the credits roll… don’t skip them. That’s where the real stars are.”