TF1 Faces Regulatory Reprimand for Prime Time Airing of Violent Film 'Joker'
TF1 reprimanded for airing 'Joker' in prime time amid viewer complaints.
Key Points
- • TF1 reprimanded for airing 'Joker' in prime time.
- • Film classified as 'highly violent', for viewers aged 16 and older.
- • Airing coincided with the release of its sequel.
- • No fine imposed, but TF1 must follow stricter future broadcast rules.
TF1 has been reprimanded by Arcom, France's regulatory authority for audiovisual communication, for airing the film 'Joker' during prime time. The broadcast, scheduled for 9:15 PM on October 13, 2024, coincides with the impending release of its sequel, 'Joker: Folie à Deux'. Arcom classified 'Joker' as a program of "great violence," categorizing it for viewers aged 16 and older, yet the film was preceded by a viewer warning stating it was 'not suitable for children under 12'.
The airing prompted considerable backlash, with numerous viewer complaints leading to Arcom's intervention. In a statement released on July 3, the authority confirmed that the film should only be broadcast after 10:30 PM due to its category IV classification. Although TF1 will not face any financial penalties, it must enhance its viewer warnings and adhere to the time restrictions outlined by the regulatory body to prevent similar incidents in the future.