Several Chinese streaming platforms have been accused of censoring LGBT plotlines from hit US sitcom Friends.
The show was re-released in China earlier this week on Tencent, Bilibili, Sohu, iQiyi and Alibaba’s Youku. However, Chinese fans have complained of scenes being deleted, including those that reference a lesbian character and another featuring a same-sex kiss. It is unclear why these scenes have been removed and none of the platforms have responded publicly to the accusations.
Sohu held broadcast rights between 2012 and 2018 and aired full, uncensored episodes at the time. However, Chinese fans shared their dismay on social media about the re-release and its omission. In one instance, dialogue was axed about the ex-wife of one character, Ross, who left him after she realised she was a lesbian. The South China Morning Post reports that incorrect subtitles were also used to downplay sexual references. In one scene, the phrase “multiple orgasms” was translated to the Chinese phrase for “women have endless gossips.”
One user wrote on social media site Weibo: “Not only does it ignore women’s sexual desire and enjoyment… [it] also reinforces the gender stereotype of women.” Another wrote; “If you can’t show the complete version under the current atmosphere, then don’t import it.” Several users have called for a boycott of the show in protest.
