In an unexpected turn of events, Apple Inc. AAPL is facing scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers concerning the abrupt dismissal of Jon Stewart’s television program from its streaming platform, Apple TV+. The lawmakers have raised concerns over potential interference from China in the decision-making process.
What Happened: As per a Reuters report, bipartisan leaders from the House of Representatives Select Committee on Competition with the Chinese Communist Party have demanded clarification from Apple. They raised apprehensions that content associated with China may have played a role in the decision to terminate the show featuring the political comedian.
Last month, the show was canceled due to creative differences. Allegedly, Stewart informed his crew that potential show topics concerning China and artificial intelligence were causing unrest among Apple’s top brass. Apple, however, has chosen to remain silent on the issue.
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The House committee has summoned Apple representatives for a meeting to address its concerns by Dec. 15, 2023. They also plan to engage in a conversation with representatives of Stewart.
Lawmakers have urged Apple to ensure that content critiquing the Chinese Communist Party or the People’s Republic of China is welcomed on Apple TV+ and other Apple services. Both Stewart and Apple’s representatives have not yet responded to media inquiries for comments.
The lawmakers’ letter was made public ahead of a scheduled dinner on Wednesday with prominent U.S. business leaders and Chinese President Xi Jinping. This timing coincides with growing concerns about possible censorship by the Chinese government and its implications on the media industry.
Why It Matters: The termination of “The Problem With Jon Stewart” from Apple’s streaming service Apple TV+ came to light last month, when it was reported that “creative differences”, particularly over the show’s coverage of artificial intelligence and China, were the cause.
The show, announced in 2020, has been celebrated as a significant achievement for Apple TV+, partly due to its critical perspective on various subjects.
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