diff --git a/yt_dlp/downloader/niconico.py b/yt_dlp/downloader/niconico.py
index 6ec2c87665..ecc57e8dc5 100644
--- a/yt_dlp/downloader/niconico.py
+++ b/yt_dlp/downloader/niconico.py
@@ -158,7 +158,8 @@ class NiconicoLiveFD(FragmentFD):
             yield self
         finally:
             stopped.set()
-            self.ws.close()
+            if self.ws:
+                self.ws.close()
             thread.join()
 
     def _master_m3u8_url(self):