Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 13 Production Halted by COVID-19: Inside the Cast’s Unease and Future Plans
The highly anticipated Season 13 of The Real Housewives of Atlanta was already in its advanced stages of filming, but the unforeseen global pandemic brought a sudden and dramatic halt to production. Following a crew member testing positive for COVID-19, filming for the popular Bravo reality series was officially shut down, sending ripples of concern through the cast and crew. This unprecedented event has left many feeling uneasy, especially those with young children, highlighting the persistent challenges of continuing entertainment production amidst a public health crisis.
Sources close to the production revealed EXCLUSIVELY to HollywoodLife that the news particularly rattled the mothers within the cast. “Kenya[Moore] and Porsha [Williams] were freaked out because they have kids,” the source shared, emphasizing the deep maternal instincts that kicked in. “Kenya in particular is very nervous.” The welfare of their children became an immediate and paramount concern, as the risk of exposure to the deadly virus loomed large, shifting the focus from on-screen drama to real-life health anxieties.
The moment the positive test result was confirmed, production acted swiftly and decisively. “Everyone from the cast and crew of RHOA were notified three days ago [Tuesday, November 10] that someone tested positive for COVID-19,” the source detailed. The immediate response underscored the gravity of the situation and the production’s commitment to safety. “Production was shut down immediately and everyone was told to quarantine immediately for two weeks.” This rapid action aligns with the guidelines set forth by the CDC, which recommends a 14-day quarantine period for individuals who have tested positive for the virus or have been exposed to an infected person, aiming to prevent further transmission and safeguard the health of the entire team.
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While Kenya Moore and Porsha Williams expressed acute apprehension, other cast members exhibited varying degrees of concern. “Kandi[Burruss] surprisingly was not so much [freaked out] but is taking it seriously,” the source continued. Kandi, known for her pragmatic approach to business and life, seems to be handling the situation with a focused resolve, prioritizing the recommended precautions without succumbing to panic. This nuanced reaction underscores the different ways individuals cope with such unforeseen circumstances, particularly within a high-stakes environment like reality television.
Similarly, “Cynthia [Bailey] is freaked out but quarantining as well,” the source added. Cynthia, who has always been transparent about her personal struggles and triumphs, is embracing the necessary isolation despite her anxieties. The emotional toll on the cast is undeniable, as they navigate the demands of filming a reality show while facing a very real, global health threat. These women, who are used to sharing their lives openly, are now confronting a new level of vulnerability, balancing public persona with private fears for their health and families.
The latest addition to the cast, Drew Sidora, 34, along with her fellow Atlanta ladies, had previously been quite active on social media, sharing glimpses of their enjoyable filming experiences for Season 13. Their posts often highlighted the fun and camaraderie, making this sudden halt even more jarring. For a newcomer like Drew, experiencing a production shutdown due to a pandemic in her inaugural season must be an unexpected introduction to the world of reality TV, adding another layer of complexity to her integration into the established group dynamics.
Prior to this incident, the production had already implemented rigorous safety protocols to minimize risks. Cynthia Bailey herself had shared insights into these extra measures during an EXCLUSIVE interview with HollywoodLife on October 19. “Bravo’s been doing a really good job just following the rules the best we can and so we did a road trip,” she explained. “We haven’t been able to travel on airplanes because it’s a whole thing if we do. Also, we get tested every week.” These measures, including frequent testing and avoiding air travel in favor of controlled road trips, were designed to create as safe an environment as possible for both cast and crew. The fact that a positive case still emerged despite these stringent precautions serves as a stark reminder of the virus’s pervasive nature and the inherent challenges in maintaining absolute safety in any public-facing industry.
Despite the temporary setback and the understandable anxieties, the spirit of “the show must go on” remains strong. While there’s a minor shift in the ‘wives’ production schedule, the highly anticipated Season 13 is still firmly set to premiere on December 6 at 9 PM on Bravo. This commitment to the premiere date speaks volumes about the dedication of both the network and the production team to deliver fresh content to their eager audience, even in the face of significant obstacles. The halt is viewed as a necessary pause to ensure the long-term health and safety of everyone involved, rather than a cancellation.
The revised filming schedule indicates a swift return to production, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. “As of now, production will resume right after Thanksgiving,” the source confirmed. This timeline allows for the mandatory 14-day quarantine period to be completed, minimizing any further risk of transmission before cameras roll again. The plan is to “finish after the premiere in beginning to middle of December,” ensuring that viewers will get a full season of the drama, glamour, and personal journeys they have come to expect from the Atlanta housewives. This means that fans can look forward to seeing the cast members’ reactions to this very shutdown potentially unfold on screen, offering a truly authentic glimpse into their lives during these unprecedented times.
The production halt of The Real Housewives of Atlanta serves as a microcosm of the larger struggles faced by the entire entertainment industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. From major motion pictures to television series, studios have had to implement drastic changes, often incurring significant costs and experiencing delays, all while striving to protect their talent and crew. Reality television, which thrives on unscripted interaction and close personal relationships, presents unique challenges in maintaining social distancing and preventing viral spread. The RHOA team’s proactive response, coupled with their determination to resume filming, showcases the dedication required to bring entertainment to viewers in a new, more cautious era.
Fans eagerly awaiting Season 13 can take comfort in the knowledge that while unforeseen circumstances have created a temporary pause, the production is diligently working to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved. The upcoming season promises to be one like no other, not only for the usual compelling storylines but also for the authentic portrayal of how the cast navigates these real-world challenges. This period of uncertainty will undoubtedly add another layer of depth and relatability to the lives of these iconic women, making the December 6 premiere on Bravo an event not to be missed.