Coronavirus: 'Riverdale' halts Season 4 production after crewmember meets patient who tested positive
After 'Riverdale' aired one of its craziest episodes, it was reported that production on The CW's thriller's current fourth season has been shut down due to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) scare.
Production was suspended after a member of the team happened to have had contact with someone who had tested positive for the fast-spreading virus. This news was reported by Warner Bros. Television. “We have been made aware that a team member from ‘Riverdale,’ which is produced in Vancouver, was recently in contact with a person who has tested positive for COVID-19. The team member is currently receiving medical evaluation,” said the release.
"We are working closely with the appropriate authorities and health agencies in Vancouver to identify and contact all individuals who may have come into direct contact with our team member. The health and safety of our employees, casts and crews is always our top priority. We have and will continue to take precautions to protect everyone who works on our productions around the world. Out of an abundance of caution, production on Riverdale is currently suspended," the statement continued.
The series was shooting Episode 20 (of 22) when the shutdown was reported. It has not been revealed if another production timeline has been set nor the date at which the show is set to resume production.
This news isn't the first of its kind and was reported the same day the COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic by WHO - World Health Organization. In order to protect all, other networks and shows have also decided to take the same precautions. CBS's 'Survivor', and events such as Coachella, and the Kids Choice Awards, also been put on halt, not to mention most shows are straying away from filming with live audiences. Even the NBA has suspended its season.