News & Politics

Song Zuer's Tax Controversy: 'Difficult Manufacturing' Passes Censorship Amidst Public Debate

The recent saga of Chinese actor Song Zuer's tax-related controversy has caused quite a stir on social media platforms, with netizens expressing mixed reactions to the news of her new TV show, "Difficult Manufacturing," passing censorship. Song Zuer's popularity and acting prowess have made her a prominent figure in the Chinese entertainment industry. However, allegations of tax evasion have threatened her career, as well as her upcoming projects.

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30 January 2024

On January 30th, news broke that Song Zuer's new TV show, "Difficult Manufacturing," had passed censorship, with some netizens questioning whether the show would be broadcasted amidst ongoing tax investigation. One Weibo user posted, "If Song Zuer's show airs, then why not the shows of Yang Baoyin, Zheng Shuang, Fan Bingbing, and Lay?" referring to other Chinese celebrities who have faced tax-related controversies in the past.

As the story unfolded, the topic of tax evasion in the entertainment industry has come under the spotlight, with another Weibo user commenting, "Not judging male celebrities for their personal lives, yet scrutinizing female celebrities over their nails, body shape, and love life." This statement reflects the deeply rooted sexism and double standards prevalent in the Chinese entertainment industry.

Several Weibo users have expressed their doubts about the show being broadcasted, with one user posting, "So, this means stolen tax money doesn't make you a 'bad' celebrity?" This comment highlights the discontent among Chinese citizens regarding the perceived leniency towards celebrities involved in tax evasion.

Another aspect of the story is the recent unbanning of Angelababy and Zhang Jiani's Weibo accounts, with some netizens speculating about what it means for Song Zuer's career. A Weibo user commented, "I guess Song Zuer's girlfriend will be unbanned soon. They should be careful with their scripts and roles in future shows." This statement indicates the public's anticipation of further developments in Song Zuer's career post-tax scandal.

In response to the mixed reactions and speculations, the television content review institution confirmed that "Difficult Manufacturing" is still undergoing review processes and did not provide any update on the show's broadcast status. Furthermore, the official response from the art management department of the Zhejiang Provincial Radio and Television Bureau stated that the show is still undergoing the review process and the final decision on its broadcast will be based on official information.

Notably, the uncertainty surrounding Song Zuer's new TV show also raises questions about the transparency and consistency of China's regulatory policies towards celebrities involved in tax-related controversies. As the public debates the implications of Song Zuer's show passing censorship, it is evident that the entertainment industry, as well as the society at large, could benefit from a more equitable and transparent system to address such issues.

In conclusion, the ongoing tax-related controversy surrounding Chinese actor Song Zuer and her new TV show, "Difficult Manufacturing," has caused a heated discussion on Weibo. Netizens have shared a variety of opinions, ranging from disappointment in the perceived leniency towards celebrities to the prevalence of sexism and double standards in the entertainment industry. As the show's broadcast status remains uncertain, the public waits for official announcements and a clarification on the position of China's regulatory policies regarding celebrities involved in tax controversies.