Dating Shows in China Face Tough Censorship
- 13 years ago
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Dating shows have been popular on Chinese television--but now they're facing increasingly tough censorship from Communist Party authorities. Restrictions imposed on shows have some fans saying they're now less entertaining than before.
Matchmaking shows like "If You Are The One", have enjoyed immense television success in China.
The show features a jury of 24 single women who decide on whether one hopeful man is an eligible bachelor. It enjoys ratings up to 4.5 percent during prime time.
But the ruling regime's State Administration of Radio Film and Television (SARFT) is increasingly imposing strict media regulations. The administration has recently banned "fake participants" who seek publicity, hosts being "morally provocative", and sexual references in all entertainment shows.
Wang Gang, the producer of 'If You Are The One', said he has to be careful, given all the new rules.
[Wang Gang, Producer, "If You Are The One"]:
"We are very careful. Also we screen our female and male guests carefully, to make sure they won't cross the line. The door of my show is closed to those who have intentions other than to look for a date."
Since the regulations, the show has been decidedly watered down, much to the disappointment of some viewers.
[Lu Jianxin, Audience Member]: [Male, Mandarin]
"Entertainment is part of life. The government shouldn't impose too many restrictions on it...To be honest, the show is less fun and amusing now."
In September, SARFT took popular talent show 'Super Girl' - the Chinese version of American Idol - off air for a year. Regulations have also banned television programs about time-travel.
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Dating shows have been popular on Chinese television--but now they're facing increasingly tough censorship from Communist Party authorities. Restrictions imposed on shows have some fans saying they're now less entertaining than before.
Matchmaking shows like "If You Are The One", have enjoyed immense television success in China.
The show features a jury of 24 single women who decide on whether one hopeful man is an eligible bachelor. It enjoys ratings up to 4.5 percent during prime time.
But the ruling regime's State Administration of Radio Film and Television (SARFT) is increasingly imposing strict media regulations. The administration has recently banned "fake participants" who seek publicity, hosts being "morally provocative", and sexual references in all entertainment shows.
Wang Gang, the producer of 'If You Are The One', said he has to be careful, given all the new rules.
[Wang Gang, Producer, "If You Are The One"]:
"We are very careful. Also we screen our female and male guests carefully, to make sure they won't cross the line. The door of my show is closed to those who have intentions other than to look for a date."
Since the regulations, the show has been decidedly watered down, much to the disappointment of some viewers.
[Lu Jianxin, Audience Member]: [Male, Mandarin]
"Entertainment is part of life. The government shouldn't impose too many restrictions on it...To be honest, the show is less fun and amusing now."
In September, SARFT took popular talent show 'Super Girl' - the Chinese version of American Idol - off air for a year. Regulations have also banned television programs about time-travel.