This major TV industry event was going to take place in Miami Beach. COVID shut it down.
If you were planning to attend The National Association of Television Program Executives, commonly known as NATPE, make other plans.
The annual meeting, which brings together TV executives, actors, content producers, distributors and streamers in one place has been canceled thanks to the rise in COVID cases.
Roughly 2,500 participants were expected to show from Jan. 18-20 at The Fontainebleau. Miami Beach has been the host location since 2010 after moving from Las Vegas. Last year, due to the ongoing pandemic, the event went virtual.
In past years the conference has attracted such celebrities as Eva Longoria, Harry Connick Jr. and Steve Harvey, with over-the-top parties, informational sessions and hobnobbing opportunities.
“We put a great deal of safety protocols in place, but it is just not enough given the intensity of this virus which is spreading at an enormous rate all over the world,” said a NATPE statement.
The organization adds that it will plan to produce a combination of virtual and in-person events later in the year “when appropriate.”
“Although this decision from a financial point of view will cost the organization a great deal of money, that was secondary to our primary concern, which is to put the welfare of our members first,” said NATPE CEO JP Bommel.
Details about refunds are forthcoming, says the website. Email for more information: info@ natpe.org.
This story was originally published January 11, 2022 at 11:00 AM.
