China Cracking Down on Children on Reality TV

Children can be cute, giggly and prone to tantrums. But according to China’s top broadcast regulator, what they can no longer be is featured on Chinese reality television. In new guidelines issued by the State Administration for Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television, children — especially children of celebrities —have been banned from participating in reality television shows. The aim of the ban, said the state-run news agency, Xinhua, is to protect the children from the pitfalls of “overnight fame.” The regulations are the latest in the government’s continuing efforts to rein in the fast-growing online television industry.

In March, new rules issued by two industry associations, including one state-sanctioned organization, outlined a comprehensive policy that included a ban on depictions of gay relationships, underage romance, extramarital affairs, smoking, witchcraft and reincarnation. Some experts said the latest guidelines appeared to be aimed specifically at hugely popular shows like Hunan Television’s “Where Are We Going, Dad?” and Zhejiang Television’s “Dad Is Back,” both of which feature children of celebrities.