There is no doubt that COVID-19 has pressed pause in many areas of our lives. While it also threatened to pause or cancel TV competitions such as “The Voice” or “American Idol,” the shows had a plan. 

The first remote show of “The Voice” kicked off on May 4. Artists performed at their homes or where they were quarantining. While the performances themselves were recorded before the shows aired, the feedback from the judges and the interactions between the judges and contestants were live. A live stream of 21 people without any technical glitches seems nearly impossible, but there was an abundance of preparation behind the scenes. According to DeseretNews.com, the coaches held remote mentoring sessions with the contestants on their team. These video chats covered everything from song selection and clothing to their background and choreography. Each contestant was also given a production kit that included a camera and audio equipment to film their performances. 

“It has been an incredible team effort with the coaches, artists, and their loved ones being involved in the process,” said Audrey Morrissey, “Voice” executive producer and showrunner in an interview with Deseret News. “With Carson at the helm from the stage, we are excited to share a unique ‘Voice’ experience that will feel both new and familiar.”

 There are now nine contestants left and the show will continue to air live through May 19. 

Along with “The Voice”, “American Idol” is handling the obstacles that COVID-19 brings. Although the contestants are also not able to perform on an elaborate stage in front of a live audience, their performances are still enjoyed by thousands watching from home. 

“It’s all the familiar elements, voting … viewers will still vote, there will still be results of the vote next week and we still have celebrity guests along the way,” said executive producer and showrunner Trish Kinane in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. 

The contestants are taped the day before an episode is aired and the judges and contestants rewatch the performance and comment on it live. There are currently 11 contestants left and the show is set to conclude on May 17.