'Big Brother: All-Stars' to Start Next Month with 'COVID-19 Protocols'
Better late than never!
Entertainment Weekly is reporting that "Big Brother" will return this year despite the pandemic. Though the CBS reality show usually begins in late June, the new season, which is an all-star edition and will feature a cast of returning houseguests, will begin on August 5.
The 22nd Season of "BB" will debut with a "two-hour live move-in premiere event" and continue with airing episodes three times a week — Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Of its later-than-usual air date, EW writes that the pandemic "could actually be a programming blessing in disguise."
"With the fall TV schedule one huge question mark because of the coronavirus pandemic — and shows like 'Survivor' already taken off the fall schedule — CBS can conceivably run 'Big Brother' deeper into autumn past its usual mid-to-late-September finale date to help fill any scheduling holes it may encounter due to other shows not being able to start production on time," EW adds.
CBS notes how it will handle the show during a pandemic.
"The 'Big Brother' production will follow specific health and safety protocols for COVID-19 with the welfare of everyone involved as the highest priority," a press release reads. "Houseguests will undergo a quarantine period prior to production and will be tested several times prior to entering the House. Once inside, they will be tested weekly during the season and have no contact with any crew members, and all supplies delivered will be disinfected. In addition, the live show will not have a studio audience."
On the production side, CBS writes: "All staff and crew members will be tested prior to commencing work on a regular basis, as well as screened daily for symptoms. They'll be required to wear PPE and will work in pods to enhance social distancing. In addition, a COVID-19 compliance officer will be on staff to monitor and enforce all health and safety COVID-19 protocols."
Host Julie Chen Moonves also tweeted about the upcoming season.