John Schneider Studios, owned by the actor best known from The Dukes of Hazzard, has faced another significant setback as torrential rains caused severe flooding in Louisiana. This marks the second time in just five months that the 58-acre film studio, a key part of Holden, Louisiana’s film industry, has been submerged by floodwaters, highlighting the challenges faced by local businesses due to increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
Located about 45 minutes north of Baton Rouge, John Schneider Studios sits on the banks of the Tickfaw River. The overflowing river inundated the entire property, including its crucial infrastructure like the 5,000-square-foot soundstage and editing bays. This damage is particularly disheartening as Schneider had recently completed filming two movies, Smothered and Like Son, at the studio, showcasing its importance to his recent work and future projects. Despite the disaster, Schneider initially planned to proceed with a concert at the studio barn on the evening of the flood, demonstrating his characteristic resilience and commitment to his community.
John Schneider Studios underwater after Louisiana flood
“We’re gonna clean up and persevere, because that’s what people in Louisiana do,” Schneider shared on his Facebook page, capturing the spirit of the local community as the floodwaters began to recede. He emphasized the widespread community support, noting, “There are people helping people everywhere here. And they are people who have lost everything,” underscoring the collective hardship and mutual aid prevalent in the region.
This recent flooding follows a similar devastating event in March, after which Schneider launched a GoFundMe campaign to help the studio recover. Describing the aftermath of the first flood, he mentioned “an inch of dirt and silt and mud all over everything,” and highlighted the significant damage to essential equipment, especially “the sound equipment and lights.” Having just gotten back to business after the initial flood, this second deluge is a major blow to the studio and its operations.
In his social media updates, Schneider urged people to emulate the Louisiana spirit of helping those in need. “Take a page out of Louisiana’s book, and when you see someone in need, help them,” he stated, expressing his deep connection to the state and its people. “That’s what they do here. And I’m so proud to be part of that. Wouldn’t live anywhere else. You may call me crazy … but wouldn’t live anywhere else. People here are amazing. They’re astounding.” His words reflect both the ongoing struggle and the unwavering community spirit in the face of repeated adversity.
