Unfortunate news: Andy Cohen has tested positive for coronavirus. The face of Bravo and host of Watch What Happens Live revealed his diagnosis on Instagram today, shortly after it was announced he’d continue his show from his apartment. Cohen was going to return Saturday with new guests, but his health has put the show on hold. Get well soon, Andy Cohen, and stay safe.
The Coronavirus Test
Celebrities such as Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson, Idris Elba, Daniel Dae Kim, and NFL Coach Sean Payton have contracted coronavirus. Now, it’s sadly Andy Cohen, a guy whose charisma and skills couldn’t be more perfectly suited to his gig.
Cohen hasn’t been feeling well from the virus, so he’s placing the show on hold for the time being. Health and safety first. There’s no need or reason for him to continue right now. As the host wrote on Instagram, he wants to focus on getting better first:
“After a few days of self-quarantine, and not feeling great, I have tested positive for Coronavirus. As much as I felt like I could push through whatever I was feeling to do #WWHL from home, we’re putting a pin in that for now so I can focus on getting better. I want to thank all the medical professionals who are working tirelessly for all of us, and urge everybody to stay home and take care of themselves.”
The Cohen Show Was About to Return
Hours before Cohen announced his diagnosis, Bravo and the host said the show would return on Sunday, March 22nd, with guests Jerry O’Connell and Ramona Singer. In a statement, Cohen said:
“Just when we thought our show couldn’t get any more low-tech, we’re all homebound. I’m not sure how this will play out, but I know it’ll be fun.”
Cohen would join Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Fallon, and other hosts taping their shows or mini episodes from home. Given the recent update on Cohen’s health, we’ll have to wait and see when he returns with new episodes. Here was the planned schedule for Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen:
Sunday, 3/22 at 10pm ET/PT
Monday, 3/23 at 11pm ET/PT
Tuesday, 3/24 at 11p ET/PT
Wednesday, 3/25 at 10:30pm ET/PT
Thursday, 3/26 at 11pm ET/PT
Sunday, 3/29 at 10pm ET/PT
Cohen would resume the show from his New York City apartment and interview guests via video. There’s always such a fun, relaxed, and candid atmosphere on his program, so it’ll be fascinating to see how he performs and connects with people over video in the future. It won’t be the same, but hey, it’s still more Andy Cohen. Can’t complain about that.
Why Andy Cohen is The Man
Before we throw heaps of much deserved praise in Andy Cohen’s direction, let’s just repeat we hope he gets well soon and that his family and him are safe. We’re sending him our sympathy and best wishes from the Grit Daily house.
Now, let’s talk about why we love Andy Cohen. Few interviewers are as naturally confident and in control of conversations as Cohen. He’s even remarkable to watch during his New Year Eve’s shows when he’s not just talking but listening to his guests. He’s an interviewer that really listens. Whenever one of his guests are on, it’s obvious Cohen is present, listening, and not waiting for his turn to talk.
Cohen is okay without the spotlight or focus on him. He’s truly one of the best. Cohen is a great conversationalist who knows how to keep the mood fun but can still go to more serious or thoughtful places. As a host and interviewer, he has so much range and entertainment value. He’s truly a master at what he does. That’s why Andy Cohen is, of course, the man.
