See 'American Idol' Judge Luke Bryan's First Photo Back on Set Amid COVID-19 Safety Measures

“American Idol” had to change things up with production when the outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease occurred. Now, the show’s judges are back on set to film the next season.

“American Idol,” like many other television shows, had to pull back from production when the novel coronavirus pandemic broke out. Contestants had to perform from their individual homes among other new rules.

The show aimed to do things differently to continue production why making sure they curb the spread of COVID-19. Safety guidelines and measures were also put in place and followed strictly.

SNEAK PEEK INTO NEW SEASON

On Wednesday, October 7, 2020, “American Idol” co-judge Luke Bryan gave fans a sneak peek into the upcoming season of the musical competition. He posted the first photo of him and his fellow judges and the host back on set.

On October 5, 2020, the show’s judges started auditions for the series.

In the image, Bryan was seen standing next to singer Katy Perry, host Ryan Seacrest, and singer Lionel Richie. What was notable about the image was that the group stood apart from each other.

PRACTICING SOCIAL DISTANCING

The judges and the host practiced social distancing as they stood behind the judge’s tables. Bryan noted in the caption of his post that everyone was back on set to film season 4 and added:

“Things may be a little different, but glad to be back at it.”

CONTESTANTS WERE TURNED BACK

Earlier in the year, contestants for the show were brought together in Hollywood, however, they weren’t allowed to stay. The group was sent back home in March 2020, as production was suspended.

On October 5, 2020, the show’s judges started auditions for the series. The auditions are set to be held in several California locations so that the show stays close to its home base unlike in previous seasons.

COVID-19 SAFETY MEASURES

In keeping with COVID-19 safety measures, the judges will be sitting six feet apart from one another. The trio will be seated at separate tables instead of one long desk as it was done in the past.

Social distancing will definitely be practiced and the cast and crew are expected to wear face masks when not on camera. Another different thing with this season is that some auditions were held online auditions since June 21, 2020.

PERRY RETURNS TO WORK

Judge Perry also returned to work even though she just gave birth a few months ago. At the end of August 2020, she and her fiancé, Orlando Bloom, welcomed their first child together.

The couple, who were meant to get married this year, welcomed a baby girl named Daisy. According to sources, they’ve since put their wedding on hold as they focus on their newborn child.