Amazon Studios has announced that they are backing out of this year's SXSW due to health concerns surrounding the coronavirus. This includes the Amazon Prime Video event planned with Entertainment Weekly.
The following statement was made by EW:
Due to health concerns, Amazon Prime Video has decided to pull back from the festival and will be canceling all activities including the Blue Room Photo/Video Studio over the weekend and the Entertainment Weekly party on Sat evening. We regret any inconvenience this may cause. The health of our team members and guests is our priority.
Thank you for your understanding,
Entertainment Weekly
Amazon is taking precautions at its offices, as well. An employee of theirs has tested positive for the coronavirus, and the company sent a memo out to employees saying, "The employee went home feeling unwell on Tuesday, February 25 and has not entered Amazon offices since that time."
SXSW has also commented on the outbreak saying, "Regarding the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: SXSW is working closely on a daily basis with local, state, and federal agencies to plan for a safe event. As a result of this dialogue and the recommendations of Austin Public Health, we are proceeding with the 2020 event with the health and safety of our attendees, staff, and volunteers as our top priority."
SXSW will take place SXSW from March 13 to March 22.
