March 13, 2020, 05:35 PM
The first-unit production of Marvel Studios' "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" has been suspended amidst coronavirus (Covid-19) concerns.
According to The Hollywood Reporter (THR), the decision was made as a result of the film's director, Destin Daniel Cretton, self-isolating at the recommendation of a doctor while awaiting test results.
The film is currently shooting in Australia.
Director took a Covid-19 test as he is a new father
Variety further reported that although Cretton had not displayed any symptoms of Covid-19, he had decided to get tested out of caution, as he just had a newborn baby.
A note that was reportedly circulated to the movie's crew stated:
"As many of you know, Destin, our director, has a new born baby. He wanted to exercise additional caution given the current environment and decided to get tested for Covid-19 today."
In the meantime, other production aspects of the film such as second unit and off production of the will continue as per normal.
Meanwhile, actor Simu Liu, who is starring as the film's titular character, tweeted an upbeat message about the situation and called for people to wash their hands and not be racist.
Grateful to work for a company that is proactive, cautious and empathetic during this difficult time. Everyone is in good spirits as we continue to work towards making an incredible film.
— Simu Liu (@SimuLiu) March 13, 2020
Stay safe out there, wash your hands, and - of course - don't be racist :)
He also revealed in a Facebook post that other members of the crew were also undergoing Covid-19 tests as well.
Not the only movie shooting in Australia affected by Covid-19
"Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" is not the only movie to have felt the impact of Covid-19 however.
Separately, the filming of an Elvis Presley biopic, also in Australia, was halted after both Tom Hanks and wife Rita Wilson tested positive for Covid-19.
Their son, Chet Hanks, subsequently gave an update stating that both of his parents were well despite their infection.
Top photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney
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