Steve Harvey had to stop shooting episodes of “Family Feud” because of COVID-19. But that changed when taping resumed on Tuesday, Aug. 4, in Atlanta.
The show will premiere its 22nd season on Sept. 14. Deadline reports that while it will have the same look and feel as before, viewers will notice some changes that will allow the host Harvey, contestants, and crew members to practice social distancing while filming.
Other safety measures put in place because of the pandemic include having a smaller crew on set with no audience members present. There will also be regular temperature checks, and crew members will be wearing masks along with other personal protective equipment.
Some of the “Family Feud” 22nd season had already been shot between Los Angeles and Atlanta before it headed back to the Southern city to film again.
“Family Feud” first aired in 1976, with Harvey picking up hosting duties in 2010. He owns a home in Atlanta, so he filmed the syndicated version of the show there early on.
The comedian then moved it to Los Angeles in 2017 after he began filming his now-defunct “Steve” talk show. After the talk show’s cancellation, an online version of the show called “Steve on Watch” began filming in Atlanta at Tyler Perry Studios.
Reportedly, “Family Feud” has experienced a significant ratings boost over the past few months since people have been spending more time at home because of the pandemic.
So far it’s grabbed the top spot in the ratings department for 2020’s second quarter. It also beat “Judge Judy” in households with adults ages 25 to 54, and it is topping “Jeopardy!” in households overall.
