Controversial 13 Reasons Why scene cut two years later
After much debate over a controversial scene, 13 Reasons Why’s creator and Netflix decided to edit it.
With season 3 of 13 Reasons Why about to debut later this summer, Netflix has decided to edit a controversial scene from the season 1 finale.
The decision to edit the scene – in which Hannah (Kathrine Langford) graphically commits suicide – was made by the streaming service after much debate. Some felt it was much too graphic to keep as is. Others felt it was important to spark conversation about suicide prevention. Ultimately, Netflix edited the scene based on “the advice of medical experts, including Dr. Christine Moutier, chief medical officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.”
The full scene will no longer be available on Netflix effective immediately. The edited scene shows Hannah looking in the mirror and then cutting right to her parents learning of her suicide.
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In addition to cutting the suicide scene, Netflix will be on the lookout for any pirated versions of the original scene and take them down.
The show’s creator, Brian Yorkey, said,
"“Our creative intent in portraying the ugly, painful reality of suicide in such graphic detail in season one was to tell the truth about the horror of such an act and make sure no one would ever wish to emulate it.”"
Yorkey ultimately listened to the concerns of professionals and viewers and agreed with Netflix that a change had to be made.
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I’m one of those who can see both sides of the argument. I remember feeling sick to my stomach after watching that scene. I couldn’t believe what I was watching. I can see how people were afraid it would spark some kids to glorify it and try to copy Hannah. But then again to watch the horror of what Hannah did and then watch her parents’ reaction could have a preventive effect.
Either way, by cutting the scene it proves that the show could make an impact without having to be so graphic.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter