American Idol star Randy Jackson forced to halt filming in Dublin after Covid outbreak

His co-host Jane Krakowski was one of several people taking part in the hugely popular Name That Tune who were struck down with the virus.

Krakowski was recently forced to go into isolation in Dublin before she, too, flew home to America.

Her infection happened despite being vaccinated, and she was forced to pull out of NBC's Annie Live! where she was to play Lily St Regis.

The first season of the rebooted Name That Tune was filmed last year in Australia and 10 shows aired in America on Fox TV.

It featured American contestants who could win up to $100,000. The second season was being filmed in Dublin before the Covid outbreak halted production.

"Filming took part in a new studio at Fonthill near Clondalkin," reveals an insider.

"But it only lasted three days before the Covid outbreak came to light and there was a dramatic halt. They decided to stop production for the moment and fly everyone back in again in the New Year to continue filming."

TV producers had advertised for audience members, with the enticement of complimentary refreshments as well as the chance to win prizes including €1,000 in cash. They said applicants must be over the age of 18 and be in possession of an EU Covid Digital Certificate.

"It's like being in the front row at a concert. Kind of one of the only concerts happening right now," said Krakowski before filming started.

The actress is best known for playing Jenna Maroney in 30 Rock, and for playing office assistant Elaine Vassal in Ally McBeal, and has also appeared in multiple episodes of Modern Family.

Randy Jackson (65) was bass player for Journey . The Louisiana-born musician has been an original member of the American Idol panel since 2002.

The Irish makers of the Dublin filmed Name That Tune version are Bigger Stage. The company was recently formed by former Virgin Media managing director Pat Kiely.

We reached out to Bigger Stage but Mr Kiely was unavailable for comment.