Following a group of socially awkward scientists, Chuck Lorre’s The Big Bang Theory captured widespread attention and soon became a household name. While fans globally continued to enjoy the show and its characters, viewers in China faced a setback in 2014 when the country’s television regulator imposed an unexplained ban on the sitcom.
However, the massive outcry from the fans of the show caused the Chinese authorities to eventually lift the ban more than a year after banning the comedy show in the country.
When The Big Bang Theory Faced an Unforeseen Ban in China
China has long been a key market for American films and TV shows, and Chuck Lorre’s The Big Bang Theory was no exception, boasting a massive following and achieving over 1.3 billion views in the country.
However, gaining access to the Chinese market has always been challenging due to strict regulations on foreign content. Only shows deemed acceptable by the authorities are allowed, and anything that might negatively impact the country or its people is at risk of being altered or banned.
Despite hardly fitting into such dimensions, The Big Bang Theory still faced a ban in 2014. The State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film, and Television, unexpectedly banned the sitcom along with shows like The Good Wife, NCIS, and The Practice.
SARFT cited vague reasons for the ban, including potential copyright issues and violations of clause 16, which prohibits content that undermines China’s constitution, sovereignty, or social harmony.
Without a clear explanation, speculation arose, with many assuming that the sitcom was banned to prevent the show’s portrayal of socially awkward or less successful characters from becoming trendy.
Though it may seem far-fetched, a 2013 survey revealed that over 80% of Chinese adults aged 24-34 and 90% of college students identified as “diaosi,” a term for socially awkward or less successful individuals, the demographic which strongly resonates with the characters in the sitcom.
The Big Bang Theory Returned to China With Tightened Censorship Rules
China’s decision to ban the show did not sit well with many, including the showrunner, who responded swiftly with one of his signature vanity cards.
The Big Bang Theory eventually returned to Chinese streaming platforms over a year later, rekindling excitement among viewers who had been eagerly awaiting its return.
However, it was not without any challenges. The show had to comply with revised regulations requiring all foreign content to undergo government review before airing.
These rules aimed to tighten control over public content and ensure alignment with government standards. Despite the obstacles posed by the new censorship policies, the shift to legal streaming services provided a crucial alternative to piracy.
With fans finally getting back their favorite show, even the censored version, the reappearance of The Big Bang Theory on Chinese screens highlighted both the challenges and opportunities in navigating this complex market.
The Big Bang Theory is available to stream on Max.
