Increased Security Measures Implemented After Violent Incidents
After a series of violent incidents in New Orleans, staff members of the popular show “Queer Eye” expressed concerns for their safety and vowed to never return to the city. The incidents prompted the production group, ITV America, to approve 24/7 armed security officers for their production office and increase officers at field locations.
Assailants Target Production Staff and Attempt Carjacking
The first incident occurred when five masked men attempted to carjack the show’s staff. In response, the production office hired armed security officers. However, just five days later, two individuals tried to carjack another staff member. The assailants were unable to gain access to the vehicle due to locked doors, but they managed to yank an employee out of a nearby car before fleeing.
Staff Concerns and Filming Paused
Following these alarming events, staff members gathered to express their concerns about the city’s crime rate. One staff member, France, threatened to walk out, stating that no TV show is worth risking their lives. The rise in crime in New Orleans, which was named the murder capital in September 2022, has been a cause for concern for residents and visitors alike.
Increased Security Measures and Resumption of Filming
To ensure the safety of the show’s personnel, production implemented immediate security measures. Filming was paused for two days, and when it resumed, an additional 20 off-duty law enforcement officers were added to the security force. This included a 24/7 detail specifically assigned to protect the five show hosts. These measures allowed “Queer Eye” to resume filming safely.
Producers Forced to Shorten Season Due to Increased Security Costs
While the increased security measures provided a sense of safety, they also incurred additional costs. As a result, the show’s producers had to shorten the season, impacting the pay of the staff. Despite the financial implications, many staff members expressed relief at being able to leave New Orleans sooner.
Concerns for Future Productions
The incidents involving the “Queer Eye” staff have raised concerns about the overall safety of filming in New Orleans. The show’s crew believes they were targeted due to their visibility in fancy cars while filming. The rise in carjackings and overall crime rates in the city have further amplified these concerns.
As of now, neither ITV America nor Netflix have responded to requests for comment on the matter.