Coronavirus: Netflix’s The Witcher to carry out ‘deep clean’ of set after star tests positive

‘Game of Thrones’ star Kristofer Hivju, who is in self-isolation in Norway, had recently joined cast of show’s second season

Netflix’s The Witcher will carry out a “deep clean and disinfection” of its London set after one of its stars tested positive for coronavirus.

Production on the hit fantasy series’ second season had already been halted, with Deadline reporting that the show has warned cast and crew to now self-isolate after “an individual” tested positive for the virus.

According to Deadline, the individual is actor Kristofer Hivju, who revealed yesterday (16 March) that he was in self-isolation in his native Norway after being diagnosed.

Hivju had recently joined the cast of the series, playing Nivellen, a man cursed to take on the appearance of a monster.

“We paused production prior to becoming aware of this, but as a further precaution we will be closing production offices and Arborfield immediately and arranging for deep cleaning and disinfection,” Netflix said in an email.

Arborfield Studios is based in West London and had recently been home to production on the series, which stars Henry Cavill.

“We are in the process of contacting those who were in close contact with the relevant individual,” the statement continued.

“However, due to the nature of this production, it is recommended that crew and cast self-quarantine for 14 days, monitor their temperature, and seek medical advice if they experience any symptoms.”

On his Instagram, Hivju said that he is “in good health” and had only experienced “mild symptoms of a cold”, while urging others to take action.

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“Together we can fight this virus and avert a crisis at our hospitals,” he wrote in a caption. “Please take care of each other, keep your distance, and stay healthy!”

The Witcher is among hundreds of film and television series to halt production as a result of the pandemic.

Find a list of all the cancelled or delayed productions here.