THE BLOCK puts production on hold due to Coronavirus impact

THE BLOCK is the latest Australian TV series to pause the production as the societal effects of Coronavirus and the important need to severely reduce contact with others takes hold. Limited construction continues to ensure structural integrity of some homes.

The Nine construction series, filming in Melbourne, was 35 days into its 90 day schedule.

As executive producer Julian Cress told Karl Quinn today in The Age,

“All told, there are around 75 to 80 people on the set of the reality juggernaut each day. To date, no one has been tested for coronavirus because no one has displayed any symptoms.”

It’s another massive blow to the media and arts industry as many freelancers and casual workers now face an extended period with no income, though Cress is optimistic that the series can still be delivered in time if the shutdown lasts no more than six weeks.

A Nine spokesperson confirmed the shutdown, telling TV Blackbox: 

The current production of The Block brought five teams from across Australia to Melbourne to compete in its 16th season. Due to increasing travel bans, border shutdowns and additional measures, The Block has made the decision to suspend filming and send contestants home, while it is still possible to do so.

Separately from contestants, The Block employs many tradespeople and freelancers, who rely on income earned from The Block for a living. The Block remains an active construction site with tradespeople, who live locally, completing building works that provide the framework of some homes. 

The Block looks forward to returning contestants back to Melbourne and resuming production when practicable to do so. 

Nine have indicated that this season is still scheduled to air later this year, though have not indicated if the planned airdate will move.