Netflix has officially greenlit a fourth season for the famous romantic drama, “Sweet Magnolias,” cementing its status as a reliable hit within the streaming platform’s repertoire.
Set primarily in Covington, the series revolves around the intertwined lives of close-knit friends Maddie (portrayed by JoAnna Garcia Swisher), Dana Sue (enacted by Brooke Elliott), and Helen (brought to life by Heather Headley) as they navigate the complexities of relationships, family, and careers in the fictitious town of Serenity, South Carolina.
According to a press release from Netflix, “Sweet Magnolias” has maintained a consistent presence in the Global Top 10 for ten weeks over its initial three seasons. Notably, upon the return of Season 3 in July, it secured the coveted No. 1 spot among all original streaming programs, retaining that position a week later, as reported by Nielsen. The show enjoyed five weeks in Nielsen’s top 10 streaming service rankings.
Maintaining the established format, Season 4 will comprise ten episodes, continuing to offer viewers the same compelling storytelling they’ve come to expect.
Categorized by Netflix as a “comfort/lean back” series, “Sweet Magnolias” aligns with other light dramas in the platform’s repertoire, including “Virgin River,” “The Lincoln Lawyer,” and “Ginny & Georgia.”
The timeline for the commencement of production for the forthcoming season hinges mainly on resolving the ongoing SAG-AFTRA actors’ strike. As the strike surpasses its three-month mark, uncertainty surrounds when negotiations between producers and union representatives will resume following a recent impasse.
Devoted fans of “Sweet Magnolias” visiting Covington will likely spot familiar locales featured prominently in the show. For example, the fictitious Sullivan’s Restaurant corresponds to a dining establishment named Mystic Grill, tied to a prior show filmed in the town, CW’s “Vampire Diaries.” The Corner Spa’s exterior shots are sourced from a law office, while Serenity’s distinctive clock tower building is none other than the Newton County courthouse. Additionally, Maddie’s and Dana Sue’s residences are in Covington.
Serenity High School takes on the appearance of Henry County Middle School, located approximately 20 miles west of Covington in McDonough. Meanwhile, scenes at the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church are filmed at Oakhurst Presbyterian Church in Decatur.
