The world of primetime television recently faced a poignant moment as the NBC series La Brea paid tribute to one of its own. In a heartfelt gesture at the end of Season 3, Episode 5, a title card honored Peter Muston, a dedicated crew member whose contributions were vital behind the scenes of the science-fiction drama. This tribute arrived in an episode already marked by on-screen loss, deepening the emotional resonance for viewers and the La Brea family.
La Brea has captivated audiences with its unique premise: a group of individuals mysteriously transported to a prehistoric world after a massive sinkhole opens in Los Angeles. As the series concludes with its final season, the acknowledgement of Peter Muston’s passing serves as a reminder of the collaborative effort and personal connections that underpin television production. But who was Peter Muston, and what was his role in the La Brea journey?
Who Was Peter Muston of La Brea?
Peter Muston was more than just a name on a title card; he was an integral part of the La Brea team. Serving as a production manager, Peter Muston contributed to 20 episodes of the series from its inception in 2021 through 2023. His role was crucial in the logistical orchestration that brings a complex show like La Brea to life. According to his IMDb profile, Peter Muston’s expertise extended beyond production management to include producer and location manager roles across various television projects throughout his career.
Peter Muston’s Extensive Career in Television
Peter Muston’s career in the television industry spanned decades, showcasing his versatility and dedication behind the camera. Before becoming a production manager, he honed his skills as a location manager, starting with the drama series Stingers in the 1990s, which was based in Melbourne. This early role laid the foundation for his move into production management in the 2010s with the series Offspring. On Offspring, Peter Muston’s contributions were significant, beginning as a production manager for Seasons 1 and 2 before advancing to line producer for Seasons 3 through 5. His filmography also includes work on With Intent, Outland, Bed of Roses, Rush, and Satisfaction, demonstrating a broad range and deep commitment to the industry.
Remembering Peter Muston: His Life and Legacy
Peter Muston’s life was sadly cut short when he passed away on October 11, 2023, at the age of 64. He died in Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, Australia, due to complications following a cardiac arrest. Tributes poured in from colleagues and friends, highlighting not only his professional capabilities but also his personal warmth and character. Kate McLennan, co-creator of the show Deadloch, where Peter Muston also served as production manager, shared a touching Instagram post. She remembered him as a “fun, warm, lovely human being” and recounted his willingness to engage in lighthearted moments amidst the demands of production.
Mark Johnson, a friend since primary school, described Peter Muston as a “big-hearted, witty, funny, dry-humoured guy who was loved and respected by many people,” emphasizing the deep personal connections Peter fostered throughout his life and career. Adam Davidson, executive producer and director of La Brea, also shared heartfelt words, calling Peter Muston “smart, funny, reasonable, charming, gentlemanly, erudite, and a friend to all.” He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with Peter Muston and admired his respectful and kind approach to everyone he encountered. Peter Muston is survived by his partner, Deb, his daughters Alice and Tilly, and his sisters Kerry and Jo.
The On-Screen and Off-Screen Loss in La Brea Episode 5
The episode that honored Peter Muston also featured a significant on-screen death. In La Brea Season 3, Episode 5, viewers witnessed the emotional exit of Levi Delgado, played by Nicholas Gonzalez. Levi’s heroic sacrifice to save Gavin and Izzy marked a major turning point in the series, adding to the episode’s poignant atmosphere. The convergence of these two losses – Peter Muston behind the scenes and Levi Delgado within the narrative – created a uniquely impactful episode, highlighting themes of loss and remembrance in both fiction and reality.
In conclusion, the tribute to Peter Muston in La Brea was a fitting acknowledgement of a man who dedicated his career to bringing stories to life on screen. His work as a production manager on La Brea and numerous other shows was essential to the television industry, and his memory is cherished by those who had the privilege of working alongside him. Remembering Peter Muston means recognizing the vital contributions of all crew members who work tirelessly behind the scenes, often unseen, yet indispensable to the magic of television.
