Screenrant reports that Marvel is losing up to $350,000 a day by halting production of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.
The film’s director Destin Daniel Cretton has entered self-isolation and is awaiting results from a Coronavirus test. Cretton recently became a new father so voluntarily went for testing to protect his child.
A note sent to the cast from Marvel said, “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. He is currently self-isolating under the recommendation of his doctor.”
“While he waits for the results of the test, we are suspending 1st unit production in an abundance of caution until he gets the results this coming week. Second unit and off production will continue as normal. We will reach out to everyone by Tuesday for the latest update. This is an unprecedented time. We appreciate everyone’s understanding as we work through this.”
Consequently, Marvel has since temporarily shut down production of the studio’s first Asian-led film, costing them and thereby Disney around $300,000 to $350,000 a day. Department heads and staff will still be paid to maintain the project during this time.
Starring Kim’s Convenience lead Simu Liu, Crazy Rich Asians actress Awkwafina and Hong Kong superstar Tony Leung, Shang-Chi will feature a 98% Asian cast.
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is set to open on 12 February 2021.
In other Coronavirus-related news, Chinese billionaire Jack Ma is donating 500,000 Coronavirus test kits and millions of masks to America.
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.
Stay safe out there, wash your hands, and – of course – don't be racist 🙂
— Simu Liu (@SimuLiu) March 13, 2020
