French political drama series Baron Noir has returned to production with an unusual filming location: the European Union institutions in Brussels. The popular Canal+ series is using the European Council’s Europa building to recreate a fictional EU summit for its upcoming fourth season.
Filming is taking place inside the same third-floor meeting room where European leaders usually gather for official discussions. The production team is using the location for night-time summit scenes, creating a realistic setting for the political thriller.
A European Council official confirmed that filming would continue for several days during the week. The decision marks a rare opportunity for a television production to use one of the EU’s most important political buildings as a backdrop.
Baron Noir follows the political journey of Philippe Rickwaert, a fictional French politician played by French-Algerian actor Kad Merad. The character begins as a controversial political strategist and works his way toward the French presidency through complex political moves.
The series has gained a strong following in France due to its realistic approach to politics and its connection to current social and political themes. Viewers and critics have compared the show to internationally recognized political dramas such as Denmark’s Borgen and the American series The West Wing.
The upcoming season marks the return of the show after a six-year break. Production for the fourth season began in April, with filming taking place in several locations.
The production team has also recruited extras to appear as diplomats during the fictional EU summit scenes. Reports said selected extras were offered payment of €75 per day for their participation.
The use of the European Council building required special approval. EU ambassadors were informed about the filming plans during a meeting in early July. The authorization was formally granted by Thérèse Blanchet, secretary general of the Council of the European Union.
The choice of location adds another layer of realism to a series known for its detailed portrayal of political institutions and decision-making. By filming inside the actual EU summit room, the production aims to create a setting that closely reflects the environment where European leaders debate major issues.
The fourth season is expected to continue exploring themes of power, leadership, and political strategy through the fictional career of Rickwaert.
Kad Merad, who plays the main character, has received international recognition for his role. He was nominated for an International Emmy Award in 2017 for his performance in Baron Noir.
The actor has become closely associated with the series, helping make the character of Philippe Rickwaert one of the most memorable figures in modern French political television.
The decision to film at the EU institutions highlights the growing connection between entertainment and real-world political locations. While the story remains fictional, the setting gives the series a stronger sense of authenticity.
As European politics continues to attract global attention, Baron Noir is returning at a time when audiences remain interested in stories about leadership, elections, and political influence.
The new season will bring back the show’s mix of political drama and fictional storytelling, with Brussels providing a major backdrop for its latest chapter. Fans of the series are now waiting to see how the recreated EU summit will shape the next stage of Philippe Rickwaert’s political journey.
