The Righteous Gemstones is HBO’s hit dark comedy created by Danny McBride, following the wealthy and dysfunctional Gemstone family as they navigate scandals, rivalries, and the business of running a megachurch. Starring Danny McBride, John Goodman, Edi Patterson, and Adam Devine, the series combines outrageous humor with family drama, all set against the backdrop of lavish churches and sprawling Southern estates.
Although the Gemstones’ world is fictional, the series relies heavily on real locations across South Carolina to create its distinctive setting. From converted shopping malls to performance venues and historic Charleston neighborhoods, the production makes extensive use of authentic locations that have become recognizable to longtime fans. Here’s a closer look at where The Righteous Gemstones was filmed and the landmarks featured throughout the series.
Where The Righteous Gemstones Was Filmed
The majority of The Righteous Gemstones is filmed in Charleston and North Charleston, South Carolina. Principal photography for the pilot began in Charleston in 2018, and every subsequent season has continued using the region as the show’s primary production base. The city’s historic architecture and modern facilities allow the series to recreate everything from luxury estates to massive worship centers.
One of the show’s most recognizable locations is Citadel Mall in Charleston. A former Sears department store inside the mall was transformed into the Gemstone Prayer Center, serving as the family’s sprawling ministry headquarters. The production also uses the North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center, whose interiors double as the impressive Gemstone Salvation Center seen during sermons and major church events.
Beyond the church settings, the series frequently films around the Charleston metropolitan area. Locations such as Aviation Square Shopping Center, Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Park, Gaillard Center, Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant, and Saint Phillips Island have all appeared throughout various seasons. These real-world landmarks help create the show’s uniquely Southern atmosphere while showcasing the Lowcountry’s diverse scenery.
By filming almost entirely in South Carolina, The Righteous Gemstones gives its fictional world an authentic sense of place. The combination of Charleston’s historic charm, North Charleston’s modern venues, and the surrounding coastal landscapes perfectly complements the series’ satirical take on televangelism, wealth, and family dysfunction, making the locations an essential part of the show’s identity.
