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Ten suspends production of The Bachelor

It is no longer practical to proceed with production of the 2020 season of The Bachelor, Ten has admitted this evening.

The network noted that in the wake of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) crisis and recommendations around social distancing, it had been “employing extra precautions on set”, however this was no longer sufficient.

The Bachelor cannot continue due to COVID-19

Ten said the decision to halt production was made after considering all available options.

“The health and safety of our participants and crew members is our number one priority,” a statement from the network said.

Production will resume when it is safe to do so.

Ten also suggested the full extent of the difficulties facing the TV industry in the wake of COVID-19 likely won’t be known for “some time to come”.

“We remain committed to keeping our audiences entertained and connected in these challenging times,” Ten added. “We are also committed to enduring the television industry remains in as strong a shape as possible so we can continue to bring Australian viewers local content.”

In addition, TV Tonight reported today that spin-off series Bachelor In Paradise would be delayed.

Bachelor In Paradise has already wrapped filming and generally screens before The Bachelor and Bachelorette.

TV Tonight reports Ten will instead screen two weeks of Jamie Oliver cooking shows and COVID-19 specials before heading straight into cooking competition Masterchef.

Ten confirmed the rescheduling to Mumbrella, but did not offer details as to why it had been delayed.

“Do not panic. You will still get to see your favourite bachelorettes and bachelors when they return to paradise for romance, scandal, betrayal and – for three couples – true love. Bachelor In Paradise will air later this year,” a spokesperson said.

Former Survivor competitor Locky Gilbert is this year’s Bachelor.

Gilbert’s quest for love has been postponed

Various other shows have been put on hold in recent days including Nine’s The Block, while the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, due to screen on Seven in July, have also been pushed back.

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