Queens comedian stars in NYC Test and Trace Corps online COVID series

By Rachel Vick

A Queens comedian is the star of a new city-funded web series designed to help New Yorkers learn the latest information about the coronavirus. 

New York City’s Test and Trace Corps tapped comedian Matt Richards to host the series “NYC Let’s Talk COVID, which educates viewers about topics like contact tracing or provides tips non how to handle relationships during the pandemic. Richards talks with experts and helps convey the information in a relatable way 

When it comes to staying safe, timely and accurate information “can empower every New Yorker to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Dr. Amanda Johnson, Director of the NYC Test & Trace Corps Take Care Program.

“The landscape of information around COVID-19 is always evolving,” Johnson said. “This new digital video series will help us reach audiences in a creative way with practical tips and life-saving information.”

The first episode premiered Feb. 2 and featured the public health expert Dr. Jay Varma, senior advisor for public health in the Mayor’s Office. Varma fielded questions from locals and discussed his personal experiences.

“One of the biggest challenges of COVID is uncertainty and a feeling of powerlessness. This digital video series seeks to educate and inform New Yorkers about the powers each of us has to fight COVID,” Varma said. 

More episodes are currently in production and will be released every week or every other week.