Ben Schnetzer, known for his role as Van in The Madison, recently opened up about one of his most memorable moments during the filming of the show. In an interview with TV Insider, Schnetzer reflected on a standout experience from Season 1, a night shoot that he holds dear. He also hinted at exciting developments for his character and his romantic storyline with Abigail, played by Beau Garrett, in the upcoming Season 2.

Schnetzer’s character, Van, is a sheriff residing in the serene Madison River Valley. His life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with Abigail, a woman who has come to Montana to mourn the death of her father, Preston, played by Kurt Russell. Despite their vastly different lives, there is an undeniable chemistry between Van and Abigail that evolves over the course of the season. Their romance becomes a central plot point, bringing both warmth and complexity to the show.
When Schnetzer was asked about his favorite moment on set, he immediately thought of a scene filmed during the final days of Season 1’s production in Montana. “There were a lot of incredibly meaningful days on set,” he recalled, “but there’s a scene that we shot at the end of Episode 3. It was the last scene we shot in Montana for Season 1 production, and that was a really special day of filming.” According to Schnetzer, the scene stood out because it was filmed during a night shoot, an experience that he described as both exhilarating and unique.
Night shoots, in particular, are often known for their distinct energy. The long hours and the tiredness that sets in after a full day of shooting can create a sense of camaraderie among the cast and crew. As Schnetzer put it, “There’s always a special kind of frisson in the air where everyone’s really tired, and your inhibitions fall away.” This sense of exhaustion and emotional release allowed everyone involved to feel a deeper connection, not only to each other but also to the characters they were portraying.
The scene in question takes place on Cade and Kestrel’s ranch, a location that would become a backdrop for key moments in the series. Schnetzer admitted that it was an emotional experience to wrap up filming in Montana, a place that had played such a pivotal role in the storytelling of Season 1. The Montana setting has become synonymous with the show’s intimate, rural atmosphere, and for Schnetzer, that final night of filming was a fitting tribute to the hard work and dedication of the entire team.

While Season 1 left fans eagerly anticipating what would happen next, Schnetzer and Garrett, who plays Abigail, have both confirmed that Van and Abigail will reunite in Season 2. This development comes after their romance was left in limbo at the end of the first season. The two actors shared their excitement about what’s to come for their characters. Schnetzer teased that the chemistry between Van and Abigail will only deepen as the season unfolds.
In Episode 4 of Season 2, viewers will see the two characters address their feelings for each other during a romantic moment by the river. This scene marks a turning point in their relationship, as they confront their emotions and the complexities of their connection. Schnetzer noted that their relationship is particularly captivating because it is marked by an element of unattainability. “There’s probably something in how unrealistic or unattainable this is that is really enticing to both of them,” he explained. “There’s something about how it turns the volume up a little bit in cranking up that desire.”
Schnetzer also mentioned that if Van and Abigail had simply met under different circumstances, such as in a more conventional setting like New York, their relationship might not have carried the same intensity. “If Van was just a guy in Abigail’s social circle in New York that she crossed paths with, you don’t all of a sudden feel the heat turned up because you know that this person might not be attainable,” he observed. The tension between the two characters is heightened by the fact that their relationship is far from simple or easy, and this makes it all the more compelling.
The upcoming season promises to dive deeper into this relationship, exploring how both Van and Abigail navigate their emotions and the obstacles that come with their connection. As Schnetzer noted, they do not take each other for granted, which only makes their moments together more meaningful. This sentiment will undoubtedly resonate with fans who have been following the journey of these two complex characters since the very beginning.
As Season 2 continues, The Madison remains a show defined by its stunning Montana landscapes, its complex character dynamics, and its portrayal of relationships that are anything but ordinary. Fans can look forward to more heart-wrenching moments between Van and Abigail, as well as new developments that will keep them on the edge of their seats.
With its gorgeous setting, strong performances, and compelling storyline, The Madison is continuing to capture the attention of audiences. Ben Schnetzer’s reflections on the show’s production only add to the anticipation for what’s to come. Whether it’s the unforgettable night shoots, the emotional rollercoaster of Van and Abigail’s romance, or the beautiful Montana backdrop, Season 2 is shaping up to be just as memorable as the first. Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how Van and Abigail’s story unfolds in this next chapter of The Madison.