Here’s why 2020 VMAs performers are exempt from NYC’s quarantine rule
The 2020 MTV Video Music Awards are right around the corner. Despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the award show is still happening with various live performances from around New York City.
Now, it has been revealed that this year’s performers are exempt from mandatory quarantine.
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The VMAs kick off Aug. 30 in Brooklyn and a massive lineup of performers are confirmed for this year’s ceremony. Earlier this month, we learned that J Balvin, Doja Cat and BTS are all scheduled to perform. Since then, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Miley Cyrus, The Weeknd, Roddy Ricch and the Black Eyed Peas are a few of the other performers to be announced.
However, as the award show approaches, both J Balvin and Roddy Ricch decided to pull out of this year’s performances. A source told Variety that the performers pulled out over health and safety concerns.
“Unfortunately, J Balvin and Roddy Ricch are no longer performing,” the source says. “As with every awards show, there are always last-minute talent changes. That said, this year has more logistical hurdles than most and the health and safety of our employees and partners is of the utmost importance.”
Now, according to new reports, all performers for this year’s VMAs are exempt from the mandatory 14-day quarantine rule in New York. According to the New York Post, performers will be able to participate in the now-outdoor show without having to self-quarantine. However, they are required to quarantine when they aren’t on set or working.
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The New York Department of Health granted the VMAs this exemption, with a spokesperson from the Governor’s office saying they can “participate in the production of the show, but they will only interact with other members of the cast and crew and will quarantine when not working.”
The VMAs have also undergone a venue change. The award’s show was originally supposed to take place at the Barclays Center. However, it is now taking place in an outdoor venue. MTV previously released a statement about this year’s award ceremony and the precautions that are being taken.
“The 2020 VMAs will be held on Sunday, Aug. 30 and pay homage to the incredible resiliency of New York with several outdoor performances around the City with limited or no audience, adhering to all state and city guidelines,” the statement says. “In close consultation with state and local health officials, it became clear at this time that outdoor performances with limited or no audience would be more feasible and safer than an indoor event.”
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The VMAs is also hosting a pre-show with various performers. Earlier this week, Machine Gun Kelly, Travis Barker and blackbear confirmed their performance on the pre-show. They are likely performing their chart-topping Tickets To My Downfall single “my ex’s best friend.”
? @machinegunkelly is nominated for his first #VMA AND performing for the first time! ?
Tune in for his Pre-Show performance featuring @travisbarker and @iamblackbear this Sunday, August 30 at 6:30p on @MTV ? pic.twitter.com/UoCb8FLZsg
— Video Music Awards (@vmas) August 24, 2020
Voting for this year’s VMAs has closed. However, all of the nominations are available to view here. The VMAs will air live on Sunday, Aug. 30 at 8 p.m. ET/PT.
Do you think the VMAs are taking enough precautions amid the coronavirus pandemic? Let us know in the comments below.
