American Idol abandons studio for production on season 18 as they discuss filming remote amid coronavirus pandemic
American Idol has made countless dreams come true since it first premiered in 2002.
But the popular competition series may not be able to brave the growing coronavirus pandemic.
The show has abandoned filming in studio for the remainder of the season, but they are reportedly circling other options to continue production.
Up in the air: American Idol has abandoned filming in studio for the remainder of season 18, but they are reportedly circling other options to continue production
According to TMZ, producers wrote in an email to the crew: ‘As we continue to monitor advice from federal and local agencies, it seems unlikely we are going to be able to make it back into the studio for this season of American Idol.’
They added: ‘We will continue to monitor and provide updates should any changes occur.’
A source also told TMZ that they’re considering producing the show with the hosts at home and viewers deciding who wins and who goes home.
The show announced earlier this month that they cancelled rehearsals and sent home the remaining contestants due to concerns over COVID-19.
No studio: Producers wrote: ‘As we continue to monitor advice from federal and local agencies, it seems unlikely we are going to be able to make it back into the studio for this season of American Idol’
Working from home: A source also told TMZ that they’re considering producing the show with the hosts at home and viewers deciding who wins and who goes home
Sent home: The show announced earlier this month that they cancelled rehearsals and sent home the remaining contestants due to concerns over COVID-19
The final pre-taped episode is set to air April 5, in which the top 20 finalists will be announced.
It will be followed by special episodes of American Idol: This Is Me, airing on April 12 and 19.
They’ll explore the lives of the top 20 finalists, featuring rehearsal footage of the contestants.
It will be a first for the show in its 18-season run, having aired live finales since it premiered in 2002.
American Idol joins the likes of Superstore, The Walking Dead, Saturday Night Live and other shows halting production amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Top 20: The final pre-taped episode is set to air April 5, in which the top 20 finalists will be announced