CBS’ ‘All Rise’ Will Virtually Produce Next Episode By Using FaceTime, Zoom, And More

Simone Missick stars in the CBS drama “All Rise.” Monty Brinton/CBS via AP

In an innovative solution that speaks to the times, CBS’ drama series All Rise will virtually produce its next episode due to the coronavirus pandemic. This marks the first scripted series to develop an episode during this uncommon year.

The episode’s storyline focuses on Judge Lola Carmichael (Simone Missick) running a bench trial virtually with the defense attorney Emily (Jessica Camacho) and prosecutor Mark (Wilson Bethel). It will utilize FaceTime, Zoom, WebEx, and more online technology. All Rise will also explore how the characters are adjusting to being quarantined and navigating their relationships.

Producers will use visual effects to create the needed backgrounds, and a cinematographer will film footage of Los Angeles’s vacant streets from a vehicle. Michael Robin, the show’s executive producer, will virtually direct.

“It’s a unique chance for our All Rise family to band together — in our different homes, even cities — to tell a story about resilience, justice and the power of community,” executive producer Greg Spottiswood explained to The Hollywood Reporter.

Although the legal drama is the first scripted television series to produce an episode during the coronavirus pandemic, other programs have certainly adapted to airing episodes from home. For instance, many late-night hosts have aired their show from living room settings, and the cast and crew for specific animated series have also been able to continue working remotely.

The All Rise quarantined episode is scheduled to air May 4th on CBS.