A Centenary Celebration for British Film History

EastEnders icon Rudolph Walker has officially reopened the legendary Elstree Studios sound stages — the very same where cinematic milestones like Star Wars, Indiana Jones, and The Shining were brought to life.

The actor, who has spent six decades in film and television, joined the studio’s 100th anniversary celebrations by cutting the ceremonial ribbon at the refurbished site in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire.

The event marked a major moment for the UK’s film industry, as the reopening of Stages 7, 8, and 9 restores more than 20,000 square feet of prime production space to one of the world’s most storied studios.

Reopening a Piece of Hollywood in Hertfordshire

Closed for renovation due to safety concerns, the three sound stages underwent extensive repairs, including asbestos removal and structural reinforcement to replace Raac concrete. The upgrades ensure the studio’s legacy continues for decades to come.

“These stages have hosted some of the most famous creations in film and TV history,” said Rebecca Hawkes, Head of Studios at Elstree. “Their reopening sets the scene for this legacy to continue.”

The studio’s Stage 7 has seen productions ranging from Superman IV and Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark to Netflix’s The Crown.
Stage 8 hosted Star Wars: Return of the Jedi’s legendary Jabba the Hutt throne room, while Stage 9 provided the setting for Jack Nicholson’s iconic “Here’s Johnny!” moment in The Shining.

A Star Reconnects with His Roots

Rudolph Walker, who has filmed many productions at Elstree over his 60-year career — including his long-running role as Patrick Trueman in EastEnders — described the reopening as an honour.

Standing before a ribbon flanked by local dignitaries, Walker shared his pride in the site’s enduring contribution to global storytelling. “Elstree has always been a home of creativity, and to see it restored to its full glory feels like bringing the heart of British film back to life,” he said.

Investing in the Next Century of Filmmaking

Elstree Studios, owned by Hertsmere Borough Council, recently received £1.4 million in investment to modernize facilities — including renovations to its underground car park. The upgrade comes as the studio strengthens ties with the MBS Group, the world’s largest studio operator.

Council leader Jeremy Newmark praised the timing of the reopening:

“The return of Stages 7, 8, and 9 gives us flexibility and versatility. The timing couldn’t be more perfect as we celebrate 100 years of filmmaking that has touched millions of lives across the world — all produced here in Borehamwood.”

A Living Legacy of Cinema

First opened in 1925 by a partnership between a Hollywood producer and a British film pioneer, Elstree Studios has since become a cornerstone of both British and international entertainment. From Star Wars to The Crown, its sound stages have captured generations of storytelling magic.

Now, as Elstree steps into its second century, Rudolph Walker’s ribbon-cutting marks more than a reopening — it’s a celebration of resilience, artistry, and the enduring power of British cinema.