Chinese watchdog proposes stricter rules for reality show participants
By ANIFriday, June 11, 2010
NEW DELHI - Participating in matchmaking shows on Chinese television is going to be far more difficult, for contestants will now have to undergo stricter screening procedures and be cautious before mouthing venturous remarks.
The State Administration of Radio, Film and Television (SARFT) has issued latest documents that ban “fake participants, morally provoking hosts and hostesses, sex-implied comments” in reality shows, which are sweeping the country’s prime-time programming.
Over the past few months, popular dating programs, such as ‘If You Are The One’ (aired on Jiangsu TV), ‘Take Me Out’ (Hunan TV) and ‘Run For Love’ (Zhejiang TV), have climbed the rating charts, with spit battles between participants and heated arguments on social issues.
However, the shows have been at the centre of wide criticism, reports China Daily.
“Matchmaking shows are neither entertainment programs nor TV dramas. The viewers have the right to hear the real thoughts of real participants. TV stations have no reason to deceive us,” said Jiang Xiaoying, an online entertainment commenter.
Audiences have also accused production teams of using serious topics as entertainment stunts to win viewers and hence advertisement revenue.
They seemingly encourage inappropriate tricks, like women admitting they are gold-diggers or participants abusing each other, to spice up their shows.
“Those dating shows are broadcast on leading provincial satellite channels, which means they are influencing a wide range of audiences,” said Liu Wenqing, a psychologist in Henan province.
“It will have a negative impact on the public if the shows simply cater to people’s low tastes,” he added.
According to reports, SARFT ordered Anhui Satellite TV to erase from its dating show ‘You Are My Destiny’ footages of participant Ma Nuo, who had said on Jiangsu TV’s show: “I would rather cry in a BMW (than smile on a bike).”
Both Hunan and Jiangsu TV declared their support for SARFT policies on Thursday, saying they would strictly adhere to the guidelines. (ANI)
