Coronavirus: US talk show hosts to perform to empty rooms as pandemic spreads
From next week, all of the major talk shows will be forced to abandon the classic format
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Several US late night talk shows will no longer be filmed in front of live studio audiences, as a precaution against the coronavirus pandemic.
From Monday 16 March, programmes including The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Late Night with Seth Meyers, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and The Daily Show with Trevor Noah will close their doors to audiences.
The shows will continue to produce new episodes. It is not clear whether the hosts will perform to silence or canned laughter
NBC said in a statement: "The safety of our guests and employees is our top priority. As a precautionary measure, starting Monday, March 16, we have decided to suspend live audiences for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and Late Night With Seth Meyers.
"Per guidance from New York City officials, the company is hoping to do its part to help to decrease the rate of transmission in our communities."
CBS and Comedy Central have also released their own statements, citing similar concerns.
The coronavirus has been officially classified as a pandemic by the World Health Organisation.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments