After nearly two weeks' worth of shooting, Netflix has called for production on the fourth season of STRANGER THINGS to shut down until further notice. Naturally, the move to halt activities with regard to the show's production stem from concerns related to the global coronavirus outbreak. Obviously, pressing pause on any production is a tough call, though it goes without saying that the health and safety of those involved with one of Netflix's most popular original series is a top priority for the streamer at this time.
Recently STRANGER THINGS producer Shawn Levy spoke with Variety about the decision to put a cap on cameras and await further instruction as to how and when filming can resume.
"I was having phone calls with Netflix while directing takes and blocking scenes,” Levy said. “We shared the news with our cast and crew that we would be pausing production out of an abundance of caution. There were no sick crew members, no one was exhibiting symptoms, but it seemed like the right thing to do.”
According to Levy, no members of the STRANGER THINGS cast or crew have tested positive for COVID-19, though that's only one aspect of how a production shutdown such as this can send shock-waves of concern throughout the group. It goes without saying that some crew members live paycheck to paycheck, despite working for what is now a major studio such as Netflix. With that in mind, it didn't take long for concerned members of the team to ask questions about pay, and how they'll be supported during this time of crisis. Thankfully, Levy was able to shed a bit of light on the situation by informing Variety that Netflix is working closely alongside crew members who are set to be paid for two 40-hour work weeks until further measures can be ironed out.
“When you’re shooting, you create this micro society, this community,” Levy said. “You’re aware of the world beyond, but in all of my years directing and producing, I’m hard pressed to come up with any comparisons for this truly global situation. He made the important point that it isn’t always policy, it isn’t always the norm in this industry. I’m just happy that Netflix wants to do right by the health and well being of the people who make this show.”
According to those close to the production of STRANGER THINGS Season 4, the show already has two episodes in the bank. While Levy and company await further instruction from the powers that be, the team is looking to establish a virtual writers' room to keep ideas coming. Personally, I think this is a very smart move. With writers continuing their trade, and a spot of downtime to re-access production activities, the cast and crew may come back to filming feeling laser-focused and ready to bang out the remainder of the season.
We'll be sure to bring you any updates as this and other shows continue to struggle against the effects of coronavirus. My how reporting has changed in just a few weeks' time, eh? Stay safe out there, friends.