“Smokey and the Bandit” has long held a special place in truckers’ hearts, but now drivers could have a chance to be part of the action.
On Saturday, June 13, production will begin in Sedalia, Mo., on “Sheriff Justice – The Series.” According to the show’s producers, the new series, which is intended to be a prequel to “Smokey and the Bandit,” follows “the larger‑than‑life Sheriff Buford T. Justice and his loyal (if not always sharp) son Junior back home in Montague County, Texas.”
The town of Sedalia will be remade into Montague County, Texas – home to Sheriff Justice. The show’s producers said they chose Sedalia because the “region’s look and spirit perfectly capture the world of Sheriff Justice,” and that they intend to showcase the town’s “character, charm and unmistakable Americana.”
“Sedalia and Pettis County have shown exactly why this community is the perfect home for Sheriff Justice,” local production coordinator Larry Parham said in a statement. “We told the producers that this town would rally behind the project — and Sedalia is proving that in every way.”
Filming will begin at 8 a.m. at the Nucor Pavilion on the Missouri State Fairgrounds, then move to the Pettis County Courthouse in downtown Sedalia later in the afternoon.
Those wishing to be part of the crew, either as an extra or a volunteer, can sign in at the Nucor Pavilion beginning at 8 a.m. If you want to be on camera, you’ll need to show up in “1970s-appropriate clothing with no visible logos.”
Producers are also encouraging owners of classic vehicles to bring their rides to be featured in background scenes at both filming locations. Vehicles must be from 1975 or older.
The father‑and‑son duo will be played by actors Sean Bailey (Buford) and Jason Bobbitt (Junior). Both actors are longtime performers with the Eastbound and Down Smokey and the Bandit Tribute Show.
“Their years of experience embodying these characters bring authenticity, humor, and heart to the series,” the show’s producers said.
The show is expected to air on Netflix in May 2027. LL
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