The MST3K LIVE Social Distancing Riff-Along Special aired on May 3rd, 2020 on multiple streaming platforms, including Pluto TV, Twitch, Facebook, and YouTube. It was conceived by Joel Hodgson as a way to connect with the fans of Mystery Science Theater 3000 during the COVID-19 crisis. In keeping with the social distancing guidelines of the crisis, the special is done in the format of video conferencing between "Emergency Host" Emily Crenshaw (Emily Marsh), Tom Servo, Crow, Gypsynote , and Mega-Synthia as they watch the Season 1 episode Moon Zero Two and add new riffs, plus riff the short Circus Day after the episode. Joel himself hosts the special, but does not reprise his character of Joel Robinson.
A second "after show" was streamed after the special on Facebook, with Joel spending time with the cast and production crew through video conferencing.
Episodes Featured:
- Moon Zero Two
- Circus Day (short)
