The filming of Channel 7’s BIG BROTHER has been thrown into chaos with the Coronavirus pandemic affecting production.
The latest series has been shut down for at least two days while a crew member is tested for COVID-19. TV Blackbox understands the crew member in question lives with someone who has contracted the disease.
The quick action by Seven and Endemol Shine Australia has seen most crew sent home until test results come through in the next 48 hours. Those crew members have been asked to self isolate.
If the results are positive, it could see the entire production shut down for at least two weeks. Producers are hoping it doesn’t come to that.
A spokesperson for Endemol Shine Australia tells us;
“We have been made aware that a Big Brother crew member has been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. The crew member is currently feeling well and showing no symptoms of the virus, however is being tested and now self-isolating. As a precaution the site is currently in lock down pending testing and further advice. We continue to work within all Federal and State guidelines and will always make the health, safety and well-being of our cast and crew our number one priority. Housemates have been brought up to date with the current situation”.
With the TV industry already suffering a major setback during the ongoing pandemic, the closing down of more productions is going to hurt even more.
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Apparently they will continue shooting which seems very inappropriate during this time. What are the rules for how many people can be in one space? Also, what other shows are continuing to shoot?