Special Report: The coronavirus and the soaps

SUMMER IS COMING! It’ll take more than a virus to defeat the world’s most beloved telly shows…

Our favourite soaps are pulling out all the stops to ensure that they remain on air, as countries around the globe tackle the coronavirus pandemic.

Eastenders, Corrie, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks have announced contingency plans that involve slowing down the broadcast of editions each week, so that episodes which have already been filmed can be stockpiled, while viewers at home still get to enjoy their regular dose of soap in the meantime.

WALFORD WAITS…

Eastenders was the first soap to announce changes to its broadcast schedule.

“In light of the spread of Covid-19, and after much consideration, it has been decided that filming on Eastenders will be postponed until further notice,” explains a Walford spokesperson.

“We have taken the decision to reduce the number of episodes we broadcast each week to two, so our audience can continue to enjoy Eastenders in their homes for as long as possible.”

Filming has also come to a halt on Casualty, Holby City and Doctors, as well as

Scottish soap River City. With the medical dramas filmed months in advance, there are many new episodes already on the shelf.

Meanwhile, Coronation Street and Emmerdale have actioned a broadcasting back-up plan of their own.

“The continued transmission of both soaps is a top priority for all of us at ITV, and to our audiences who enjoy the shows,” shares a spokesperson for both soaps. “While carefully adhering to the latest health advice from the government and Public Health England, our production teams are continuing to film episodes at our studios in Manchester and Leeds. With this change of transmission pattern, it will ensure we have great new soap episodes coming to air every weekday night until at least the early summer.”

STILL GOING STRONG!

At the time of writing, Hollyoaks is still filming, with its transmission cutting back from five to three episodes per week. Meanwhile, in Australia, Neighbours has suspended production as a precaution – although filming is expected to resume with no broadcasting interruptions planned as yet. And over in Summer Bay, the cast are doing rehearsals via Skype to minimise contact.

So, pop the kettle on and cosy up with your fave soaps. These changes are temporary, and we all hope that normal service will resume soon!