Stranger Things boss reveals cast’s ‘bittersweet’ reaction to shutting down season 4 filming over coronavirus
Like most Netflix shows, production for series four of the popular 1980s sci-fi drama-horror series has had to be halted for at least two weeks due to the global pandemic.
⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates
In the US there have been , while in the UK there have been more than 2,500 cases nationwide and 108 fatalities.
But whereas some TV execs – such as 50 Cent – have been upset at having to make the call to postpone filming, Levy was more level-headed.
Levy, who is executive producer and director of Stranger Things, told how when he informed the 100-plus members of his cast and crew about the development last Friday, the decision had already been taken.
Levy admitted it felt like a “bittersweet moment” for everyone involved as they’d developed a “familial” vibe and having to tell the entire cast and crew they had to stop “when on a roll” felt tough, but unavoidable.
CORONAVIRUS CRISIS - BE IN THE KNOW
Get the latest coronavirus news, facts and figures from around the world - plus essential advice for you and your family.
To receive our Covid-19 newsletter in your inbox every tea time, .
To follow us on Facebook, simply .
Recalling the moment he broke the news, Levy told : “I was having phone calls with Netflix while directing takes and blocking scenes.
“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.”
Describing the experience of dismantling the massive set at such short notice as “intense”, Levy revealed the staff finished their scheduled shoot on Friday before going their separate ways to “wherever they thought they should in terms of social distancing and sitting out”.
He added: “When you’re shooting, you create this micro society, this community. 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.”
Levy admitted the staff were concerned about the implications of the two-week shutdown, and a veteran crew member asked if they were going to be paid during the disruption.
But with Netflix having agreed to fully pay everyone during the hiatus, Levy went on: “I’m just happy that Netflix wants to do right by the health and wellbeing of the people who make this show.”
The shutdown came exactly a month after a , exciting fans desperate for more info after a big cliff-hanger at the end of season 3.
Seasons 1-3 of Stranger Things are available to stream on Netflix now.