Emmys: E! Red Carpet Reporters Test Positive For COVID-19

In one of the most unfortunate news coming out of this year’s Emmys, two reporters, Giuliana Rancic and Vivica A. Fox, have pulled out of the virtual ceremony after testing positive for COVID-19.

Both reporters were set to co-host E!’s Live from the Red Carpet segment this year, Variety reported. Rancic joined the network’s pre-show and revealed that she decided to skip this year’s event because of her diagnosis.

During the video stream, Rancic noted that she never takes an award show lightly and it is her 20th year on the E! red carpet coverage. The television personality further explained that she chose to skip this year’s virtual event due to E! and NBCUniversal’s “strict guidelines” regarding COVID-19. Rancic also said she is “very thankful” that she got to know about her diagnosis before traveling.

“As I go into my 20th year on the E! red carpet I have to say I do not take missing an award show lightly, but unfortunately this year is just so different. As part of E! and NBCUniversal’s very strict testing guidelines, especially before an event like this, I did find out that I tested positive for COVID-19. Now as much as I didn’t want to hear that, I’m very thankful I heard it before I traveled and possibly could have exposed other people. So for that, I’m thankful,” Variety quoted Rancic, as saying.

The entertainment reporter also revealed that her husband Bill and son Duke have also tested positive and are currently taking precautions by staying at home.

She concluded her message by saying that people should take care of themselves and protect others from the global health crisis.

“My husband Bill and our son [Duke] also did test positive, but we’re all doing well and taking care of each other so I’m going to get back to doing that . But I just want to say I’m wishing you all the best and please protect yourselves and protect those around you. Take good care and I’ll see you on the next red carpet,” Rancic said.

Later on the pre-show, it was disclosed that Fox also tested positive for the life-threatening illness.

“During these unprecedented times, it's more important than ever that we follow all safety and health rules and guidelines to protect ourselves and each other ” The Hollywood Reported quoted Fox, as saying.

Talk show host Jimmy Kimmel is hosting this year’s virtual awards ceremony.