Was That Really the Fancy Westgate Las Vegas on PLURIBUS?
Those who really know Sin City can’t help but wonder if that really was the Westgate Las Vegas on Pluribus, the new hit Apple TV series, or if it was just Hollywood magic.
Pluribus the newest series from acclaimed creator Vince Gilligan (Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul) — has quickly emerged as an awards darling and a cultural standout, as well as one of the most talked about series of the year. I know it’s high on my own list of Best Drama Series this year, and it may well get my Critics Choice vote this year.
Apple TV is, of course thrilled with its new series. It became the streamer’s biggest drama series launch ever, even passing up Severance season 2, and just a few days ago it was cleverly announced that Pluribus is now the most-watched show in Apple TV history—ever.
The transcendent Rhea Seehorn plays Carol, an understandably angry woman who finds herself trapped in on an earth where almost the entire population has been transformed into a rapturous hive mind. Her ire, loneliness and quirkiness has most assuredly earned my vote for Best Actress in a Drama series.
I felt an even bigger affinity for the show (if that’s possible) when I saw my personal stomping grounds featured in Episode 6. Carol travels to Las Vegas where Mr. Diabaté, one of the 11 others left on earth who are immune to the alien hive mind takeover, is living a life of lavish luxury and lasciviousness. She has horrifying Soylent Green-esque evidence about what’s going on, and feels the need to share it with someone who’s not a part of it.
A road trip in her appropriated police car takes Carol to Sin City, where a giant sign on the Westgate Las Vegas marquee reads “Welcome Carol.”
What ensues appears to happen at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, on the casino floor as well as the Sky Villas, but in this day and age of CGI and AI, you never know. And if really was shot there, why and how did they chose the Westgate, the former home of Elvis back when the resort was known as the International Hotel, then the Las Vegas Hilton, before Westgate took it over.
Turns out, those Vegas scenes really were shot at the Westgate. “The Sky Villas have always been among the most extraordinary spaces in Las Vegas and seeing them showcased in a series with the creative pedigree of Pluribus is incredibly meaningful for our entire team,” said Cami Christensen, President & General Manager, Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino.
“The production immediately recognized the cinematic potential of the Villas, and the response from viewers has been remarkable. Westgate’s history has always been tied to entertainment and culture, and this collaboration proudly continues that legacy on a global stage.”
The backstory of the Westgate Las Vegas on Pluribus
Here’s the backstory of how the iconic resort became one of the show’s most memorable locations.
The location team approached Westgate during early scouting. Once they toured the Sky Villas, the creative team expanded the storyline to make the Villas a central environment in the episode, citing their scale and cinematic potential as unmatched in Las Vegas.
Photo of the Sky Villa courtesy of Westgate Las Vegas
With more than 45,000 square feet (15,000 square feet per Villa) of multi-level living space, a private indoor pool, dramatic architectural details and sweeping views, the Sky Villas provided a visually rich setting that aligned with the show’s elevated style and narrative tone.
At the time, the Westgate team had no idea that the show would have the colossal cultural momentum it has evoked. “With Vince Gilligan at the helm, we certainly anticipated Pluribus would make an impact, but seeing the level of success—and the way the show has spotlighted Westgate’s legendary legacy—has exceeded expectations,” said Christensen.
So why the Westgate?
Photo Courtesy of Westgate Las Vegas
The Westgate team notes their resort offers an unusual combination of iconic architecture, spacious interiors, flexible filming conditions, and a legacy deeply tied to entertainment history. These elements give productions both visual impact and logistical ease.
“From its Elvis legacy to decades of landmark performances, Westgate has long been intertwined with culture and entertainment,” said Christensen. “Appearing in Pluribus continues that tradition by showcasing a modern chapter in the resort’s relationship with storytelling, creativity, and filmed content.”
Key scenes were filmed inside the Verona and Imperial Sky Villas, showcasing their dramatic interiors and unique design. Additional transitional shots were filmed in select areas of the resort to support the show’s visual narrative of one of the earth’s last true humans living the high life he’d always dreamed about.
In essence, the Sky Villas are among the largest and most unique luxury accommodations in Las Vegas, and offer multi-level living, private pools, bespoke interiors, and panoramic views. Over the years, they have served as a backdrop for VIP guests, entertainment productions, and now a global streaming audience through Pluribus.
For information on the Sky Villas and perhaps even make a reservation, click here.
Those who really know Sin City can’t help but wonder if that really was the Westgate Las Vegas on Pluribus, the new hit Apple TV series, or if it was just Hollywood magic.
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