HBO unhappy as JioHotstar censors 'The White Lotus' Season 3
What's the story
JioHotstar, the newly launched streaming platform, has found itself in hot water over its decision to censor two scenes from the third season of The White Lotus.
The show premiered on February 17 and by the first episode itself, viewers noticed significant changes.
A scene featuring Nicholas Duvernay cursing at a Buddha idol was entirely removed from the Indian stream, while another sequence featuring masturbation was noticeably shortened.
Unapproved alterations
HBO expressed discomfort over JioHotstar's unilateral content changes
Reportedly, the alterations didn't sit well with HBO, which started a conversation with JioHotstar last week.
A source told Mid-Day, "HBO has been firm about maintaining creative integrity across global markets."
"Last week, the team initiated a discussion with JioHotstar about preventing such alterations in the future. They are uncomfortable with changes being made to its content without prior discussions."
Eagle-eyed viewers noticed this as the episode was replaced with an edited version soon after release.
Past incidents
Jio's history of content modification for the Indian market
Notably, this isn't the first time Jio Studios has altered content for the Indian audience.
In June 2024, an episode of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver on Indian elections was taken down from JioCinema.
"International platforms are frustrated because these edits often happen without consulting them," the source added.
Strategy shift
'The platform can't alienate key international partners'
After HBO's criticism, JioHotstar is reportedly rethinking its approach toward international content.
A company insider, who wished to remain anonymous, said, "We'll have to exercise caution before making modifications. The content must be under local sensibilities."
"At the same time, the platform can't alienate key international partners."
However, so far, JioHotstar has not officially commented on this.
Audience reaction
Indian viewers expressed disappointment over Jio's censorship
Along with HBO's disapproval, JioHotstar is also facing ire from its Indian subscribers.
Viewers have taken to social media platforms to express their anger, questioning why they are paying full subscription prices for censored content.
While one X user said they were not going to renew their subscription, another questioned what the "Indian standards" were according to which international content was being censored.