EastEnders says "no dates have been set" for filming to resume after June rumours
The BBC soap has now halted production for over a month
Bad news for EastEnders fans: the BBC has denied reports the show is set to restart filming in June.
Although some publications claimed the soap – which paused shooting in response to the coronavirus pandemic on 18th March – would welcome its cast members back to the set in coming weeks, the broadcaster says no filimg days have been scheduled.
In a statement to RadioTimes.com, an EastEnders spokesperson said: "No dates have been set for filming to resume and we will not return until it is safe to do so. We will continue to follow the latest news and advice from the World Health Organisation and Public Health England."
Since its production halted, only two EastEnders episodes have been aired a week (on Mondays and Tuesdays, 7.30pm), to allow fans to enjoy the show for as long as possible.
Similarly, ITV also announced a shutdown in production of soaps Coronation Street and Emmerdale on 23rd March amid the nationwide lockdown. However, the broadcaster is making plans for their return, with adapted storylines and scripts, and more scenes featuring only two actors.
Speaking at the Edinburgh TV Festival (taking place online this year due to lockdown) Kevin Lygo, director of television at ITV, explained: “ITV without soaps is barely ITV. They are working really hard now as to how, when, if and when restrictions are lifted a bit, how can we make the soaps in a safe way.”
Visit our dedicated EastEnders page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. If you’re looking for more to watch check out our TV guide.
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Thomas is Digital editor at BBC Science Focus. Writing about everything from cosmology to anthropology, he specialises in the latest psychology, health and neuroscience discoveries. Thomas has a Masters degree (distinction) in Magazine Journalism from the University of Sheffield and has written for Men’s Health, Vice and Radio Times. He has been shortlisted as the New Digital Talent of the Year at the national magazine Professional Publishers Association (PPA) awards. Also working in academia, Thomas has lectured on the topic of journalism to undergraduate and postgraduate students at The University of Sheffield.