Production outbreak

Production outbreak

By Meg Hill

A television show filmed at Docklands Studios had its production suspended in August after it was linked to a COVID-19 outbreak.

Production of The Masked Singer was suspended on August 22 after several crew members tested positive for COVID-19. By August 27 there were 17 known cases linked to the show.

Docklands Studios said it had no other productions scheduled to film at the studios during the current period of stage four restrictions.

The show, which is hosted by Osher Gunsberg and features Dannii Minogue and Dave Hughes, was shooting its final episode when production was suspended.

The Masked Singer is aired on Channel Ten and the company issued the following statement after the suspension:

“Production of The Masked Singer has been immediately suspended as a result of several crew members receiving a positive test result for COVID-19. The health and safety of the community, and our staff and production partners are 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.”

Under stage four restrictions most news and media outlets were deemed essential services and production has been allowed with COVID-safe plans.

But Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said the outbreak showed that COVID-safe plans could not completely safeguard against the virus.

“If [production of the program] weren’t to continue, then the whole thing would basically fall over and would be lost to Victoria,” he said.

“It’s done on a case-by-case basis and it’s always done with a COVID-safe plan.

“I’m not pleased to make the point, but it does make the point that this is a widely infectious virus and even if you’ve got the very best processes in place, you’ll see positive cases.” •

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