China Bans Reality Talent Shows, Asks Broadcasters To Stop Promoting 'Vulgar Influencers'

Chian has banned reality talent shows that promote ¡°sissy¡± men and instead asked broadcasters to promote content that shows masculine men.

According to an AFP report, Chinese state regulators asked TV producers and show-makers to stop making content that shows effeminate men and vulgar content and instead should make programmes that show men in a strong and masculine form.

"Broadcast and TV institutions must not screen idol development programmes or variety shows and reality shows," China's broadcast regulator, the National Radio and Television Administration said, in a raft of new regulations.

Reuters

This, the report says, is to crack down on "immoral" pop culture Beijing believes is leading young people astray.

Programme-makers in recent times introduced shows that promoted idol development. Such formats are quite popular in countries like North Korea and Britain and Chinese show makers have successfully localised them.

In addition, Chinese filmmakers have brought the TV programme format where people from humble and poor backgrounds were shown making to the top list after the rigorous training and public votes.

Reuters

Though quite popular among the masses such programmes have also faced criticism for showing men and women indulging in activities that many say go against Chinese culture.

Above all the fandom these idols are getting is not sitting well with Chinese authorities who see that as a bad effect on society and a potential threat to the communist government.

Recently, fans of a Canadian-Chinese pop star and former idol Kris Wu who was sent to jail on rape charges designed a "prison break" to free him. Although the star denied any role, the attempt by his fans infuriated the Chinese government and they vowed to curb the behaviours of China's "chaotic" fandoms.

Now this decree from the high command in the Chinese government is being seen as an attempt to stifle any attempt to disturb the status quo in China i.e stronghold of President Xi Jinping.