Production ceases on The Block due to COVID-19 restrictions
Nine’s renovation juggernaut The Block has ceased production on its 16th season, with travel bans and coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions making filming impractical.
A spokesperson told Mumbrella the show would resume filming as soon as it was safe to do so.
Production has ceased on season 16 of The Block
“The current production of The Block brought five teams from across Australia to Melbourne to compete in its 16th season. Due to increasing travel bans, border shutdowns and additional measures, The Block has made the decision to suspend filming and send contestants home, while it is still possible to do so,” said the spokesperson.
However, the decision has been made to allow the workers who have roles on the site to continue to work during the time.
“Separately from contestants, The Block employs many tradespeople and freelancers, who rely on income earned from The Block for a living. The Block remains an active construction site with tradespeople, who live locally, completing building works that provide the framework of some homes,” said the spokesperson.
“The Block looks forward to returning contestants back to Melbourne and resuming production when practicable to do so.”
The Block is scheduled to air later this year. The Sydney Morning Herald reports the program is 35 days into its 90-day filming schedule and won’t be delayed if the shutdown lasts less than six weeks.
Production has also ceased on Nine’s The Voice, but Australian Ninja Warrior was able to continue its shooting and finish the 2020 season.
