'American Idol' Reportedly Halts Production While Contestants Head Back Home

"American Idol" has immediately suspended its production due to the global Coronavirus outbreak. The decision was made to ensure that contestants can get home to their respective families.

The show's production team has been working remotely since last week while producers continue to monitor the situation closely, as reported by TV Line. Episodes will continue to air through the beginning of its live shows, which were supposed to be shown in mid-April.

The "Idol" is among the ABC shows that temporarily stopped its production. More than a hundred shows halted their operations, due to the Coronavirus disease 2019 or Covid-19, which has infected about 5,800 people in the United States.

SOCIAL EVENTS CANCELED

Notable shows that have suspended their production include the "Riverdale," "The Handmaid's Tale," "Survivor," an "The Ellen DeGeneres Show."

Other hit shows, including "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" and "Grey's Anatomy" followed suit, as reported by Pop Culture.

Aside from TV shows, several social events, such as festivals and concerts, have been canceled. Sporting events, including the NCAA, NHL, and NBA tournaments, were also suspended.

MORE SUSPENDED PRODUCTIONS

Multiple cities ordered the temporary closure of some business establishments and recreational places such as bars and gym. The health-threatening situation has caused people to stop work.

Meanwhile, the CBS TV Studios is also postponing their pilot and current series, as reported by ET Canada. "At this time, we are evaluating situations on a case-by-case basis, informed by the best information from health experts and government officials," it said in a statement.

Some TV personalities have decided to continue working but will minimize the crowd in their studio.

SAFETY AND WELFARE

Shows under CBS TV Studios that are affected are "NCIS," "NCIS: Los Angeles," "NCIS: New Orleans," "Bull," "Dynasty," and "The Good Fight." These shows are said to be almost finished and are all down to one or two last episodes.

"Some productions may continue as long as they do not involve live audiences and/or environments that are considered at risk. The safety and welfare of our production team is our top priority," the studio added.

Some TV personalities have decided to continue working but will minimize the crowd in their studio. Wendy Williams announced on Instagram that she will no longer have a live studio audience and co-hosts until further notice.

We at AmoMama do our best to give you the most updated news regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, but the situation is constantly changing.

We encourage readers to refer to the online updates from CDC, WHO, or Local Health Departments to stay updated. Take care!