NBC affiliate pulls ‘Hannibal,’ continues habit of creating controversy by gagging it
More often than not, we like to imagine that most NBC affiliates have a good relationship with the mother-ship. Even though some of the ratings have slipped, they provide quality programming, help support local news, and work together in a symbiotic relationship. With that being said, there is one station in particular out there that probably causes network executives to pound their heads against a wall.
For the third time in two years, Salt Lake City affiliate KSL TV has made the decision to pull a series that they deem too controversial. Earlier this season, it was “The New Normal,” strictly due to the philosophical differences on the subject of same-sex relationships. This time around, it is the adaptation of “Hannibal.” The station released a statement, citing the “extensive graphic nature” of the show along with viewer complaints as the reason behind the move. They also claim that viewers should be able to find the show online, and another affiliate has picked up the show to air on the weekends.
So should a network that benefits from a network’s programming continue to censor it to such a high degree? We’re not writing this article to chide or disagree with the station (as it comes from a conservative area, and has ties in ownership from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints), as they have the right to watch or believe whatever they like. However, we have always personally believed that in America, decisions related to content consumption should be the responsibility of the individual rather than the collective. If the network is giving a show to affiliates and promotes it as a show deemed appropriate for America, viewers should have an opportunity to watch it without jumping through hoops. If the ratings are bad, then it should be canceled. It’s as simple as that.
The truth is that none of the series pulled by KSL were ratings warriors in the first place. “The New Normal” is a long shot for renewal, and “Hannibal” is unlikely to be renewed either based on the most-recent episode’s demo figures. What is your take on this issue? If you want to read some more controversy related to “Hannibal,” you can do so over here.
Photo: NBC