Similar to other sectors, the recent COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected television production. Some programs had to postpone filming, and others would formulate ways to adapt to the new measures to stop the spreading of the COVID-19 virus. The pandemic brought challenges even for renowned producers such as Randy Douthit, who had to adjust accordingly.

According to Douthit, famously known for producing Judge Judy, the pandemic brought extra costs to film production. They had to put in additional safety and testing procedures, taking more time to complete a scene on set. Apart from the budget, the people working on set also felt the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; they had to wear masks, and there were vaccination and testing requirements. The new changes also brought a new attitude.

Randy Douthit understood it was all about being careful; everyone had to be aware. Although there were extra steps and precautions, the entire crew had become accustomed to the safety measures. Some people had become grumpy about taking a test early on; however, they took the tests before everyone else in Douthit’s crew. Apart from tests and masks, Douthit recounts that the studio remained vacant without an audience after the pandemic began to reduce exposure.

Randy Douthit Talks about Working Remotely

Office workers used technology to work remotely. Douthit also leveraged technology, and Judge Judy Sheindlin would preside over each case remotely through video conferencing. During this period, Douthit ensured that the production background was similar to what the viewers were used to seeing in previous seasons of Judge Judy. Sheindlin would also receive evidence through a monitor, and she would carefully go through everything before making a ruling.

The Early Days of Randy Douthit on Television

As an experienced producer, Douthit has become accustomed to ensuring the work takes place accordingly. However, at the onset of his career as a producer, he was tasked with proving that he was dedicated. He would ensure he was always there, and Douthit was willing to ensure each show he was working on would show on air. Since he was passionate about television production, he was able to excel and become a force to reckon with in the industry.