The Big Bang Theory has not only been a successful series in the West but also in China. There, too, the series had a huge fanbase until it was suddenly banned. Although the series could return, there were new conditions.
When was the series banned? The Big Bang Theory was not only successful in the USA and Europe, but it also managed to accumulate a large fanbase in China. Time Magazine reported in 2014 that the series had already generated 1.3 billion clicks on the Chinese website SohuTV since 2009.
However, 2014 marked the end for several US series on Chinese streaming sites. Among them were The Big Bang Theory, The Good Wife, NCIS, and The Practice. The bizarre thing about the ban was that seemingly “worse” series like Breaking Bad and House of Cards were not banned.
For Chinese fans of The Big Bang Theory, this was a disappointment. Just before filming, the actor who played Raj also had to endure a disappointment: The Big Bang Theory: One of the most important actors was fired without reason – But the creator brought him back
A Ban Without Proper Justification
Why was the series banned? There was never an official reason from the Chinese authorities. However, Time Magazine has a suspicion, which indeed relates to the success of the series. Video platforms like SohuTV had much more freedom regarding foreign licenses before 2014.
In 2014, the Chinese government wanted to counteract this. State television was already regulated, and now they also wanted more control over online offerings. Since 2014, every American and British TV show must have government approval before it can be broadcast.
Even the U.S. State Department reacted at that time to the ban and named the following reasons that were vaguely provided to them by the Chinese State Administration of Radio, Film and Television:
- Clause 16 of the Online Broadcasting in China:
- Prohibition of pornographic content
- Prohibition of violent content
Content that violates the Chinese constitution, threatens the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country, incites unrest in society, promotes illegal religions, and stirs ethnic hatred
Which specific content from the series violated this clause is not mentioned. It is all the more bizarre that series like Breaking Bad were still available.
The Fans Wanted the Series Back
Did the series return? As reported by Time Magazine, some Chinese fans fought in forums for the return of the series. They quote a user emphasizing the importance of the show.
All these miserable phenomena highlight the racism, injustice, and decadence of Western society. It is an extremely powerful educational tool for those in China who wish to emigrate.
In July 2015, the series returned but had to comply with new regulations. Now, every season that is to be aired must be accepted in advance by a Chinese institution. This naturally makes it difficult for international series to be aired in a timely manner in China. Many fans in China also feel reminded of the nerds from the series. The actors identified with their roles: After a funny scene from The Big Bang Theory, the actor who played Leonard cried – It reminded him of his school days
