TV Shoot Turns Giddings Plaza Into London

CHICAGO — In what locals dubbed "the British invasion," Lincoln Avenue was transformed into a scene straight out of London on Monday. The transformation was all part of a shoot for the "Empire" television series.

A double-decker bus, an old-fashioned British telephone booth and British street signs were seen in the heart of Lincoln Park. Onlookers also spotted a mock British television news van.

Chicago Brauhaus was transformed into "The Tipsy Swallow - London's original pub established in 1895."

According to the filming notice, the British transformation ended on Monday at midnight.

The "Empire" series was created by Academy Award nominee Lee Daniels and Emmy Award winner Danny Strong. The drama follows the Lyons family and their media company, Empire Entertainment.

Image: Cate Gillon / Staff / Getty Images