The Real Reason Vivica A. Fox Had To Drop Out Of Co-Hosting The Emmys Red Carpet

Vivica A. Fox was set to be one of the hosts covering the 2020 Emmy Awards on E! Live from the Red Carpet. However, as the broadcast progressed, she didn't make an appearance. Instead, host Brad Goreski said, "We have to send our best wishes to Vivica A. Fox, who up until a few days ago was going to be here with us tonight. She released this statement explaining her absence."

The statement said, "I am terribly sorry I cannot be with my E! family tonight! Unfortunately, I have tested positive for the coronavirus. So, in an abundance of caution I am isolating myself at home. During these unprecedented times, it's more important than ever that we follow all safety and health rules and guidelines to protect ourselves and each other."

"I'm sending my very best to [co-hosts] Nina [Parker] and Brad, who I know will hold down the fort, and congratulations to all of tonight's nominees," Fox continued. "I look forward to seeing everyone again soon!" 

Unfortunately, Fox was not the only person who had to drop out from hosting duties leading into the Emmy Awards. Another co-host revealed a positive coronavirus diagnosis during the E! Live from the Red Carpet broadcast.

Before Brad Goreski read Vivica A. Fox's statement about testing positive for coronavirus, long-time red carpet correspondent Giuliana Rancic briefly appeared via video chat to explain her absence. Rancic said, "As I go into my 20th year on the E! red carpet, I have to say I do not take missing an award show lightly, but unfortunately this year is just so different."

She explained, "As part of E! and NBCUniversal's very strict testing guidelines, especially before an event like this, I did find out that I tested positive for COVID-19. Now as much as I didn't want to hear that, I'm very thankful I heard it before I traveled and possibly could have exposed other people." She also revealed that her husband Bill Rancic and their son Duke also tested positive. Rancic concluded, "I just want to say I'm wishing you all the best and please protect yourselves and protect those around you. Take good care and I'll see you on the next red carpet."

In Fox and Rancic's absence, Goreski and Nina Parker hosted E! Live from the Red Carpet with some help from Erin Lim.