Movie theaters nationwide are closing amid the coronavirus outbreak

With Broadway and Disney Parks shutting down, it’s probably no surprise that movie theaters are also closing their doors in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. Here’s what we know.

Due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, AMC Theaters announced that it will be closing its U.S. movie theaters for six to 12 weeks. This move isn’t all that surprising, as many states have begun cracking down on group gatherings to prevent the spread of the disease — and besides, many of the films these movie theaters would be playing in the coming weeks have been pushed back due to the current health crisis.

AMC’s Twitter account shared the news, noting that AMC Stubs A-List members would have their accounts frozen for the time being. According to The Verge, the company also sent out a press release stating that it will “continue to monitor this situation very closely and look forward to the day we can again delight moviegoers nationwide by reopening AMC movie theaters in accordance with guidance from the CDC and local health authorities.”

And AMC isn’t alone in its response to the outlined health directives. Regal also made the decision to shut its theaters nationwide, a move that was made after the White House advised citizens to avoid gathering in groups larger than 10. Regal’s establishments will remain closed indefinitely, although consumers can likely expect updates as the situation develops.

Smaller theaters have also followed in the footsteps of these two chains, with Landmark Theatres and Alamo Drafthouse temporarily disbanding operations as well. Given the federal and local recommendations to avoid group gatherings, it’s likely most theaters will close down for the time being — and it’s unclear what the new normal for the film industry and cinema will be like afterward.

For more information about COVID-19, visit the CDC’s website or the website for your state’s Department of Health.