Production on show starring Natalie Portman and Lupita Nyong’o halted after threats of violence, police say

Production on an upcoming TV collection starring Natalie Portman and Lupita Nyong’o was halted late final week after a gaggle in Baltimore threatened the manufacturing crew, in accordance with authorities. “Lady in the Lake” was filming in Baltimore when a gaggle of folks threatened to shoot a member of the crew, police stated.

A Baltimore Police Department spokesperson confirmed to CBS Baltimore that “locals threatened the producers of the movie that if they didn’t cease production, they would come back later . . . and shoot someone.” 

“The locals then told the producers that if they paid them, they would allow the production to continue,” the spokesperson stated.  

“The leaders of the production decided to err on the side of caution and reschedule the shoot after they found another location,” the spokesperson instructed CBS Baltimore.

The spokesperson didn’t verify the quantity of cash that was allegedly demanded, however The Baltimore Banner reported that the group tried to extort $50,000 from the crew.

Based on the ebook written by best-selling creator Laura Lippman, “Lady in the Lake” started filming in Maryland in late April and will proceed manufacturing all through Baltimore till October, according to a Maryland Economic Development Association press release. The show is ready to air on Apple TV+.