HBO's The White House Plumbers halts production following an on-set altercation

Deadline

The five-part Watergate limited series starring Woody Harrelson and Justin Theroux "has been suspended over on-set incident(s) this week that have triggered an investigation," reports Deadline. “HBO has received reports of alleged unprofessional behavior on the set of White House Plumbers,” HBO said in a statement to Deadline. “We take very seriously our responsibility to ensure a respectful work environment on all our productions, and we are investigating the matter fully.” According to Deadline's Nellie Andreeva, "there was an on-set altercation on Wednesday, Aug. 4, involving series director/executive producer (and former Veep  showrunner) David Mandel and a member of the prop department. The incident is believed to be the focus of the investigation though I hear there may have been a second altercation on Thursday, Aug. 5, which led to the show’s prop department quitting in protest. I hear the production halt (with no reason provided) was revealed in a call sheet sent out Thursday night. The document included a note with contacts for anyone to report bullying on set, according to sources who indicated that this week’s incidents may not have been isolated. I hear production has been currently suspended for today, Friday, Aug. 6. It is unclear yet when it will resume as HBO is investigating. The series is believed to be about midway through filming in New York State." As Andreeva notes, the production suspension is happening amid a surge in the delta variant of COVID-19.