Where is Suits based? Premise of the hit legal drama, explored

Harvey Spektor and Michael Ross in Suits (Image via YouTube/Suits Official)
Harvey Spektor and Michael Ross in Suits (Image via YouTube/Suits Official)

Workplace dramas are not new to American television, and Suits is a popular example. Set in New York, the show follows the workplace dynamics in a high-class legal office.

The show involves the usual conflicts that may have happened in the 2010s in a similar real-life setting. It stars Gabriel Macht in the central role of cool-headed lawyer Harvey Specter, who hires Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams) even though he doesn't even have a law degree. Yet, the illegitimate, young lawyer tags along with Harvey in this professional space.

Harvey works at Pearson Hardman, a New York-based prestigious law firm, but he moves around the place with such confidence that someone might think he runs it in its entirety. The supporting cast also includes Gina Torres as Jessica Pearson, Meghan Markle as Rachel Zane, Sarah Rafferty as Donna Paulsen, and Rick Hoffman as Louis Litt.

Let's unfold a few more details about where it's based and its premise.


Where is Suits based? The premise of the hit legal drama, explored

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Suits, USA Network's hit legal drama, is based in New York, but it is not where the show was actually filmed. Instead, the New York locations were simulated in Toronto. While it may have helped the show's team for logistical or financial reasons, their star, Gabriel Macht, once shared a desire to shoot in New York.

In 2011, Macht told The Hollywood Reporter:

“Outsourcing I understand. But it’s better for the artist to shoot where the show takes place. And I think New York City is the greatest city in the world, and hope one day to shoot a season there."

He also added:

“I really believe that when you’re walking in New York City, the people walking around, the extras, there’s a different take, a different sensibility. I spoke with one of the producers, and he said we’re running out of streets in Toronto to make it look like New York City.”

While those dreams may never have turned true, Suits still honored its premise of a New York-based legal drama, addressing the complications in its workplace with a blend of sharp humor and an attractive cast. Since its first season, it tackled a frosty professional relationship between Harvey and Mike, as the latter hoped to rise the ranks despite his deception.

Harvey's conviction sails the boat many times with his legal clients if not for his wit, but Mike has a difficult time adjusting, at least initially, at Pearson Hardman. He has one thing going for himself: His photographic memory skills. They allow him to remember anything he reads, which comes in handy in legal cases, even if he doesn't exactly know the basics of the law.

Suits centers around the tension of Mike's secret being exposed, but it also follows Harvey and Mike helping their clients with their smarts. They also face challenges from Jessica Pearson and Louis Litt, who work in higher positions within the organization. After a nine-season run between 2011 and 2019, it became available to stream on Netflix.


Also Read: 10 most hated Suits characters of all time, ranked

Edited by Amey Mirashi