Actress Jane Lynch films part of Illinois tourism campaign commercial at Heartland Lodge

June 21, 2023 | By Muddy River News

Jane Lynch plays the guitar at Heartland’s Original Lodge in front of the Great Room’s fireplace playing guitar during the recent filming of a commercial. | Photo courtesy of Gary Harpole

NEBO, Ill. — Harpole’s Heartland Lodge was a filming location as part of the State of Illinois’ $30 million advertising campaign promoting unique destinations across Illinois. This ad campaign will be marketed nationally through multiple outlets, including cable TV networks, to boost tourism across Illinois.

A production team of more than 50 people took over the lodge to film the commercial. Jane Lynch can be seen at Heartland’s Original Lodge in front of the Great Room’s fireplace playing guitar. Jane, an Illinois native and graduate of Illinois State University, has enjoyed a successful career in Hollywood, winning five Primetime Emmy awards, two Screen Actors Guild awards and a Golden Globe award. She is known for starring as Sue Sylvester in the musical comedy series “Glee” (2009–2015).

In a press release, Gary Harpole, Heartland’s owner, said, “We’re excited to be a part of the ‘Middle of Everything’ campaign and to promote the beauty and diversity of West-Central Illinois. Our intricate lodging options, several on-site activities, recreation opportunities and local attractions create an unapparelled experience unlike anywhere else in the Midwest that attracts guests from across the globe to enjoy year-round. We expect this ad campaign to boost local tourism within the community as outdoor recreation tourism continues to grow in popularity.”

The resort offers horseback trail riding, ATV/UTV riding on 1,400 acres and more than 60 miles of trails, UTV half- and full-day rentals, sporting clays course, multiple fishing ponds, premium upland/deer/turkey/waterfowl hunting packages and several other activities. Guests are welcome to bring their own side by side, dirt bike or ATV as well. Heartland has suites, private luxury cabins and multiple lodges with several rooms for larger groups. The lodge is the only Orvis and Shooting Sportsman endorsed lodge in Illinois.

Visit HeartlandLodge.com or contact the lodge at 217-734-2526 for more information.