Apple has reportedly decided to cancel its show, “The Problem with Jon Stewart,” just weeks before it was set to begin shooting its third season. The comedy-news program aired on Apple TV+ and featured unfiltered critiques of current affairs.
According to The New York Times, Stewart told staff on Thursday Oct. 19, that “potential show topics related to China and artificial intelligence were causing concern among Apple executives.”
There were allegedly disagreements over guests, as well.
The Hollywood Reporter’s sources said Apple told Stewart they needed to be “aligned” on the show topics. When Stewart wanted full creative control, the company threatened to cancel, so the former “Daily Show” host walked away.
Apple did not respond to requests for a statement.
This situation is not the first time that an American entertainment project has made adjustments with Chinese in mind. The 2012 remake of “Red Dawn” initially featured Chinese villains. However, due to pushback in Chinese state media, MGM digitally altered the villains to be North Korean and replaced all related flags and symbols.
Apple’s reported decision to cancel the show coincides with CEO Tim Cook’s second visit to China this year. The tech giant has been facing sluggish iPhone 15 sales in the country. Cook met with the information technology minister following a recent announcement regarding new regulations for app stores.