Some of the most popular historical dramas in China were pulled out from television channels as state media launched an attack on the genre for its "negative influence on society." The change in programming schedules came after an article in Friday's edition of the Beijing Daily magazine Theory Weekly called out the "sins" of these popular historical dramas.
The article claims these imperial dramas are encouraging audiences to pursue the glamorous lifestyles of past monarchs in China, as well as promoting pleasure and luxury above the virtues of frugality and hard work. The historical dramas that were pulled out include "Story Of Yanxi Palace" and "Ruyi's Royal Love In The Palace," the South China Morning Post reported.
The plots of these series which involve elaborate schemes could reportedly worsen the balance of society. The program makers were also accused of putting commercial profits above providing "spiritual guidance" to viewers. Shandong TV reportedly replaced the regular evening showing of the Story Of Yanxi Palace with a contemporary drama Ode to Joy, while Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace scheduled for Monday afternoon on Dragon TV was replaced by a reality show Joyful Comedians.
Meanwhile, some online commentators went on Weibo to defend their favorite historical dramas. One user said the influence of Yanxi Palace to the feminist movement was hugely underestimated, which had already reached the limits of what women could do in a feudal society.
The 70-episode series broke all viewing records when it was released on video streaming site iQiyi last summer. The imperial drama was set in the Qing dynasty court wherein concubines of the emperor vie for power. The Story Of Yanxi Palace becomes an overnight sensation for its strong-willed and cunning female protagonist - usually rare in typical Chinese court dramas. The hit historical drama was also particularly popular among women.
Zhang Lijia, a Chinese social commentator, said she understood the concerns of the authorities and the viewers, saying she sees some points that the article made.
"To go far in life, you have to play tricks and be ruthless and nasty to each other. Already there's a moral decline in today's China," Zhang said.
She added the criticism of the article is a reflection of the current general crackdown, noting some conservatives had already made noises in the past when the political atmosphere was tightened. For instance, senior retired official criticized a young girl with dyed hair clad in sexy outfits on a talent show a few years ago. The official said the outfit was out of line with socialist values.
