The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed that Eternals stars Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek, Gemma Chan, and Lauren Ridloff were all forced to pull out of Elle Magazine's 2021 "Women In Hollywood" gala last night. Why? Well, they've potentially been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
The actresses were set to be honoured during the event, but Elle Editor-in-Chief Nina Garcia told those in attendance that "Those superheroes are now in super isolation."
This could explain why Chan appeared at yesterday's press conference virtually (pretty much everyone else was there in person), and with the Eternals junket taking place this week, chances are Disney's plans have been thrown into chaos. Interviews were supposed to take place in person, while the cast is set to head to the UK next week for the premiere.
"Earlier today we were made aware of a possible exposure to COVID-19, and while all of our talent have tested negative, out of an abundance of caution, we are pivoting to virtual appearances rather than in-person events," a Disney spokesperson told the trade a little earlier today.
This news just goes to show the risks that come with once again holding these in-person events, especially as we head into our first winter with the COVID-19 vaccine readily available. The next few months will be a big test, but we're hoping the virus is now a little more under control.
Eternals is set to be released in theaters on November 5.