With the growing number of coronavirus cases been recorded in different parts of the world, Netflix has concluded to pause on production of the second season of ‘The Witcher’ in the U.K. It is the first Netflix production going on a break since the outbreak of the virus.
The break in production will last two weeks making way for a careful study on how the disease is been curbed by health officials and also give both cast and crew members some time to take care of themselves personally.
“Cast and crew health is our primary concern. We are dealing with an unprecedented global pandemic that is beyond our control, and in many instances with mandates or restrictions imposed by governments (including travel restrictions in many countries). As such, we have made the decision, effective immediately, to pause production for 2 weeks during this difficult time, and we will support our production partners working on Netflix U.K. scripted series in doing the same. This will allow everyone the time to make informed decisions about how to move forward,” stated Netflix in an email sent to the production team Sunday night.
Reports indicate that while on halt, both cast and crew will still be paid. Meanwhile, production for other Netflix shows are still ongoing including that of ‘The Crown’ which is in its last days of shoot.
Also, Amazon has shut down productions for ‘Lord of the Rings’ in New Zealand amid the virus spread, while both New York City and Los Angeles movie theaters are being ordered to close down by their respective Mayors, Bill de Blasio and Eric Garcetti.
Yesterday, Elizabeth Moss, who serves as an executive producer and lead actress on the award-winning television show, ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ also disclosed that production for the fourth season is on hold in order to preserve the health and safety of both cast members and that of the crew.
