
Edinburgh woman's 'incredible' time on Netflix set to offer her unique expertise
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An Edinburgh womans unique experience led her to the set of the newly-released Netflix series Department Q.
Heather Muir, a contact lens technician at independent practice in the capital, played a behind-the-scenes role in the show - which was filmed in and around Edinburgh. A 'seasoned expert' in handling contact lenses, Heather was brought on for specalist support.
She worked closely with actors and makeup artists for the series, with hit Netflix on Thursday, April 29. The thriller show follows a former top detective who takes on a cold- case, transforming an Edinburgh basement into a 'well-oiled machine' filled with misfit officers.
Heather commented on her experience while on set, saying: "It was an incredible experience to collaborate with such a talented production team.
"Blending medical expertise with the creative world of television was a unique opportunity, and it was a memorable experience to be on location with the production team."
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Heather works with Cameron Optometry, and also worked on Guillermo Del Toro's latest blockbuster which was filmed in Edinburgh.
Department Q features plenty of familiar faces from shows such as Downton Abbey, Shetland and Call the Midwife. You'll spot the likes of Matthew Goode, Kelly MacDonald, Alexej Manvelov, Leah Byrne and Jamie Sives.
Filming for the series took place in early 2024, with cast and crew descending on spots around the city including housing estates in Wester Hailes, City Chambers, and The Signet Library.
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Leah Byrne, who plays Rose, spoke exclusively to Reach about her experience on set with fellow actor Alexej Manvelov, who plays Akram.
Speaking about the abundance of Scottish talent on the show, she said: "It was so cool, such a joy for me. I'm from Glasgow so I just had to nip down the road and we were filming this amazing show.
"But it's so authentically Scottish as well. It doesn't feel like it's trying to be something it's not. It doesn't have to try hard and it's just in its blood."
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