Netflix suspends production on 'The Witcher' amid coronavirus

The series becomes the first Netflix show in Britain to be impacted by the pandemic

Netflix's The Witcher has become the latest addition to the growing pool of major productions being impacted by the coronavirus, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Filming on the second season of the fantasy video game adaptation, the series has been suspended for two weeks. Starring Henry Cavill in the leading role while being the first Netflix production to be halted in the UK, the production has been discontinued starting today.

A source close to the production and part of an email sent to the production team on Sunday night said, "The cast and crew's health is our primary concern. We are dealing with an unprecedented global pandemic that is beyond our control and in many instances, with mandates or restrictions imposed by governments (including travel restrictions in many countries)."

"As such, we have made the decision, effective immediately, to pause production for two weeks during this difficult time, and we will support our production partners working on Netflix UK, scripted series in doing the same. This will allow everyone the time to make informed decisions about how to move forward."

The note added, "The coronavirus has raised challenging issues for everyone working on set on productions for Netflix. We are very grateful for all the work everyone has done to keep cast and crew safe during this pandemic."

According to the outlet, the cast and crew will continue to be paid during the hiatus.

Nevertheless, Netflix is working alongside its production partners on other scripted series currently shooting in the UK, of which there are less than five. Among them is The Crown, currently still shooting but nearing the end of production.

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.