Calls have surged for Netflix to remove one of its most popular series, which has been flagged for hitting ‘every possible trigger warning point’.
The show in question, 13 Reasons Why, gained instant popularity on the streaming platform upon its release in 2017. However, numerous councils and charities have raised concerns, advocating for its removal due to the inclusion of ‘multiple distressing scenes’.
Centered on the story of 17-year-old Hannah Baker, portrayed by Katherine Langford, the series follows her tragic s**cide, leaving behind 13 cassette tapes detailing the reasons behind her decision. Her friend Clay Jensen, played by Dylan Minnette, grapples with her death while listening to the tapes.
Over its four-season run, the show has depicted several harrowing scenes, some of which have been edited or removed in response to criticism.
The series drew significant backlash for featuring a ‘graphic’ male r**e scene, prompting calls for its removal from streaming platforms. Additionally, a graphic s**cide scene in the first season was later edited out.
Following the show’s debut season, the Parents Television Council voiced concerns, urging for a change in age recommendations due to its controversial content. Tim Winters, President of the organisation, emphasised the need for a higher age rating, asserting that the content was inappropriate for younger viewers.
Creator Brian Yorke addressed the concerns, acknowledging the challenging nature of certain scenes. He emphasised Netflix’s efforts to provide resources for viewers, including support for those who may find the content troubling.
In response to criticism, Netflix introduced warnings before each episode and launched the series Behind the Reasons, aimed at fostering discussions on the issues tackled in the show.
Audiences also took to social media platforms to express their views on the age rating, with some suggesting it should be raised to 14 years and above, considering its potentially triggering content.
Meanwhile, others have called for the show’s complete removal from Netflix’s library, advocating for it to be discontinued entirely.
