ITV suspends filming The Only Way Is Essex

ITV has suspended filming \'The Only Way Is Essex\' due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Cast and producers initially hoped they would be able to continue shooting the show amid the health crisis - but ITV bosses have now decided to delay production on the new series until later in 2020.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "There have been lengthy discussions with the cast, and it just wouldn\'t have worked without a busy social scene and going to clubs and their shops.

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"So bosses have decided to wait until later in the year when the crisis has calmed down a bit. It\'s not worth the risk."

The programme - which stars the likes of Pete Wicks and Georgia Kousoulou - is heavily reliant on big social events, which are extremely problematic amid the pandemic.

The insider explained: "\'TOWIE\' relies on signature set pieces and glossy events, set in glamorous locations around Essex and involves a big cast of regulars and extras. It\'s also all about friendships and relationships, so the social lives of our cast members are at the heart of the show.

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"In light of the current guidance from Public Health England and the World Health Organisation to practice social distancing, the best thing to do to keep our cast and crew as safe and secure as possible would be to postpone filming.

"We look forward to \'TOWIE\' returning later in the year when it will celebrate its tenth birthday."

Meanwhile, an ITV spokesperson said: "After much consideration, it has been decided that the upcoming series of \'The Only Way Is Essex\' will be postponed until later in the year."