diff --git a/lib/src/channel_info.dart b/lib/src/channel_info.dart
index 208fa588..eda58f43 100644
--- a/lib/src/channel_info.dart
+++ b/lib/src/channel_info.dart
@@ -80,7 +80,7 @@ class ChannelInfo extends StatelessWidget {
     }
 
     if (!showTypingIndicator) {
-      return alternativeWidget;
+      return alternativeWidget ?? Offstage();
     }
 
     return TypingIndicator(