EastEnders has shut down filming due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In a statement released to Digital Spy, the BBC confirmed that filming has been suspended following the spread of COVID-19 and updated measures from the UK government.
As a result of this decision, the soap will air two times a week – Mondays 8pm and Tuesdays 7.30pm – instead of the usual four episodes with immediate effect.
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"In light of the spread of COVID-19, after much consideration, it has been decided that filming on EastEnders will be postponed until further notice," the statement read.
"The decision was made after the latest government update. We will continue to follow the latest news and advice from the World Health Organisation and Public Health England.
"We have also taken the decision to reduce the amount of episodes we broadcast each week to two, so that we can ensure the audience can continue to enjoy EastEnders in their homes for as long as possible."
The BBC also confirmed that filming for all of its other continuing dramas – including Holby City, Casualty, Doctors, Pobol y Cwm, and River City – has been postponed.
Elsewhere, Neighbours is taking a break from filming until Monday (March 23) after an employee recently came into contact with a person who tested positive for COVID-19.
Coronation Street and Emmerdale are currently still filming, but ITV added that it was "keeping a close eye on the situation and putting our people first".
EastEnders airs on BBC One.
The information in this story is accurate as of the publication date. While we are attempting to keep our content as up-to-date as possible, the situation surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to develop rapidly, so it's possible that some information and recommendations may have changed since publishing. For any concerns and latest advice, visit the World Health Organisation. If you're in the UK, the National Health Service can also provide useful information and support, while US users can contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
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