Welcome to West Covina, a city that became unexpectedly famous through the hit television series ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.’ This modern suburban city, located in the San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles County, California, boasts a rich history and a unique cultural significance, particularly after being featured prominently as the setting of the show.
West Covina was officially incorporated on February 17, 1923, as a result of local residents’ desire to prevent the establishment of a sewage farm. The city initially thrived as an agricultural hub, with walnut and orange groves dominating the landscape. However, post-World War II developments transformed West Covina into a bustling suburban community.
The city’s claim to fame came in 2015 with the premiere of ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,’ a critically acclaimed musical dramedy that aired on The CW. The series follows Rebecca Bunch, a successful but unhappy lawyer who impulsively moves to West Covina in pursuit of her high school boyfriend, Josh Chan. While the show filmed many of its scenes in and around Los Angeles, it depicted West Covina as a charming, quirky town full of colorful characters and unexpected adventures.
The success of ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’ brought West Covina into the limelight, drawing fans from around the world who wished to see the real-life settings of their favorite fictional stories. The show even celebrates the city in its opening number, ‘West Covina,’ highlighting its local attractions and suburban charm.
Notable figures connected to West Covina include former residents like baseball legend Don Drysdale and musicians such as The Beach Boys’ Al Jardine. The city has also hosted various public figures and events, contributing to its evolving cultural tapestry.
Today, West Covina continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a diverse population. Its cultural significance endures, partly due to its association with ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,’ which has given the city a unique place in pop culture history. Visitors often explore local landmarks and enjoy the suburban lifestyle depicted in the show, bringing the fictionalized version of West Covina to life.
Whether you’re a fan of the series or simply interested in exploring the area’s history, West Covina offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolving narrative of suburban America. Its story is one of transformation, from agricultural roots to a pop culture icon, illustrating how a city’s identity can be reshaped by the stories told about it.
