Beijing TV authorities have ordered online entertainment shows to promote socialism instead of “irrational” star-chasing as part of a crackdown on China’s increasingly obsessive celebrity fan culture.
Modelled after similar programmes in Korea and Japan, boyband reality shows such as “Produce Camp 2021” and “Youth With You” have become viral sensations in China, creating massive armies of mostly young, female fans who vocally support their favourite contestants online.
Authorities abruptly suspended the latest season of “Youth With You” last week shortly before its finale, after a leading contestant was embroiled in an online scandal over his family’s alleged past business dealings.
State media last week criticised the milk-buying craze driven by show producers.
“To vote for their idol, fans scan a QR code in the cap, only needing the bottle not the milk, so crates and crates of milk were poured onto the ground,” ran a commentary by state broadcaster CCTV News.
“This absurd method of celebrity-chasing is induced by sellers and platforms.”
China officially adopted a law banning food waste in April, which threatens fines of up to 50,000 yuan (US$7,800) for restaurants that waste excessive amounts of food.
Garcia, Winker go deep as Nats end slide, beat struggling Twins 12
Child murderer who abducted and killed schoolboy 50 years ago dies in prison of old age
US Figure Skating championships headed to Wichita, Kansas, next year with worlds on tap for Boston
Our friends wriggle out of paying their fair share on holiday
Poland arrests sabotage suspects and warns of potential hostile acts by Russia
Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo out for Game 2 against Pacers
QB Stetson Bennett is back with the Rams for offseason workouts after missing his first NFL season
Chinese scientists develop new treatment for tendon
Election deniers moving closer to GOP mainstream as Trump allies fill Congress, report shows
Video: Alligator on runway at Florida Air Force base captured
The bodies of 4 men and 2 women were found strangled, piled up in Mexican resort of Acapulco
Blow for Rishi Sunak's hopes of pre