Netflix has canceled production on its original scripted series “If Only” after the current conservative Turkish government demaned the streamer remove a gay character.
THR reports that Netflix announced the eight-part romantic drama in February with Ay Yapim producing and film star Ozge Ozpirincci starring. However authorities, citing the existence of a gay supporting character in the script, refused to issue a filming license unless the character was removed.
Instead of censoring the script, Netflix opted to pull the series altogether. This marks the first time Turkey has intervened directly to censor a Netflix show in the territory and the country has had no issue showing LGBTQ content uncensored on Netflix in the past including “Hollywood,” “Sense8” and “Orange Is the New Black”.
The country did issue a take down order for an episode of “Designated Survivor” because it depicted a fictional Turkish leader as a villain. In an official statement, Netflix said it remained committed to producing shows in Turkey which remains one of the fastest-growing international markets for the streaming giant.
Source: THR
