Fatal Incident at Edinburgh Studio Halts 'Dept. Q' Season Two Filming

Key points

• Emergency services were called to FirstStage Studios in the Leith area of Edinburgh at approximately 3:00 PM on November 12, 2026, following a report of a seriously injured man.
• The individual was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after emergency services arrived, according to Police Scotland.
• Left Bank Pictures, which produces 'Dept. Q' and previously produced 'The Crown,' confirmed the death of a crew member and stated they are offering support to the affected family and colleagues.
• Police Scotland indicated that the death is not being treated as suspicious, but inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the incident.
• The Health and Safety Executive is liaising with the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and Police Scotland regarding the incident.
• The incident occurred at FirstStage Studios, which had recently wrapped filming for the second season of 'Dept. Q' starring Matthew Goode.

Background

This incident follows a previous fatal accident at the same location. In 2022, a contractor named Philip Ross died at FirstStage Studios, and a Fatal Accident Inquiry is still ongoing regarding that case. 'Dept. Q,' based on the novels of Jussi Adler-Olsen and created by Scott Frank, premiered its first season in May 2025 and was renewed for a second season in August 2025. The series has been a significant hit for Netflix outside the United States.

How outlets are covering it

All sources, including BBC, Deadline, The Independent, and E! News, confirm the basic facts of the death and the non-suspicious nature of the incident as stated by police. Left Bank Pictures and Netflix expressed condolences and support. E! News highlighted the previous 2022 fatality at the same studio, adding context to the safety concerns. The Health and Safety Executive confirmed its involvement in the investigation. There are no reported disagreements among the sources regarding the core facts, but E! News provided additional historical context regarding the studio's safety record.

Why it matters

The death of a crew member on a major Netflix production highlights ongoing safety concerns in the film and television industry, particularly at studios with a history of incidents. The involvement of the Health and Safety Executive and the Crown Office indicates a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the death. This incident may lead to increased scrutiny of safety protocols at FirstStage Studios and other production facilities.

What to watch

Police Scotland and the Crown Office will continue their inquiries to establish the full circumstances of the death. The Health and Safety Executive will likely issue findings or recommendations based on its investigation. Left Bank Pictures and Netflix may face increased scrutiny regarding their safety protocols and may need to address the incident in public statements or internal reviews.