Although many TV shows have now returned to production and are currently airing new episodes, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic still causes challenges for casts and crews. Networks have installed measures to make sure that employees are safe in the workplace, but things can still happen. Now, we’ve learned that The Good Doctor stars and real-life married couple Richard Schiff and Sheila Kelley have tested positive for COVID-19 shortly after the Season 4 premiere. With this, the two have taken to social media to open up about their conditions.
Richard Schiff, who plays Aaron Glassman on the show, revealed his COVID diagnosis in a Twitter post, in which he also confirmed Sheila Kelley’s positive status. He also took the time to share love and support for others who are dealing with the virus:
On Election Day I tested positive for Covid-19. This has been the most bizarre week of our lives. Sheila Kelley is also positive. This is tough. We are determined to find a way to health again. We root for everyone out there who are struggling with this thing. Love from here.
Sheila Kelley, who recurs on the show as Debbie Wexler, expanded on the news with an Instagram post, confirming that she and her husband are in quarantine. She also touched on how quickly the symptoms can change:
We‘re quarantined in our home in Vancouver, recovering. This virus is a slippery sucker. One minute you feel almost fine and the next you can’t catch your breath. Symptoms change radically daily even hourly.
She also asked that those with the virus continue to practice social distancing in order to stay safe. She then concluded the message on a sweet and hopeful note:
If you have Covid we’re in this together. Breath deeply. Breath slowly. Breath fully. We will get through this together.
A source from The Good Doctor tells TVLine that even though the show’s shooting schedule has been altered to accommodate Schiff’s situation, production won’t be heavily impacted. At this time, reps from ABC and Sony Pictures Television have not commented on the matter.
Like a number of other returning shows, The Good Doctor has tackled the COVID-19 pandemic head on, with some praising it for setting the standard for how medical dramas should handle COVID. The show, however, won’t dwell on the ongoing pandemic for too long, as the series will be moving into a post-COVID-19 world following the twist-filled, two-part season premiere.
While it’s unfortunate to hear that both Richard Schiff and Sheila Kelley have contracted COVID-19, both seem to be in good spirits as they remain in quarantine. It’s also nice to see the two be so candid about their experience, as it could serve as a bit of encouragement for others who are currently having their own bouts with COVID-19.
We here at CinemaBlend wish Richard Schiff and Sheila Kelley and speedy recovery during this time.
