Production for Ten’s The Masked Singer has been suspended following an outbreak of COVID-19 on set, but sources say the network will still be able to finish the season.
The singing competition was filming its finale when a crew member tested positive for COVID-19, sending the entire crew, including the production team, masked singers, host Osher Gunsberg and judges Dannii Minogue, Jackie O, Urzila Carlson and Dave Hughes, into self-isolation.
Despite the interruption, sources close to production say the on-air schedule will not be affected, with Ten and Warner Bros working to find alternatives to broadcast a finale for the series.
“Production of The Masked Singer has been immediately suspended as a result of several crew members receiving a positive test result for COVID-19,” a Ten spokesperson says.
“The health and safety of the community, and our staff and production partners is our number one priority.
“The entire production team, including the masked singers, the host and panellists are now in self-isolation. They are all being monitored closely and are in constant contact with medical authorities.
“Network 10 is working closely with the Victorian Government and the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services. Network 10 is providing all crew with all the support and assistance possible.”
The series, which had already started filming prior to the stage four lockdown, was able to continue in line with the Victoria Government permitting screen productions to go ahead under the tough restrictions.
Following the outbreak, the Victoria Government advised last night that any shows that hadn’t started shooting by August 6 wouldn't be allowed to continue production. This new advice has meant production for Nine’s Millionaire Hot Seat, which was on hiatus and shares studios with The Masked Singer, will be paused.
Sources close to production say Nine is looking at options for the show, but is likely to air new episodes it’s already filmed alongside repeats in the coming weeks.
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