RTÜK imposes fines and content removals on Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Prime Video

Turkey’s Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK) has imposed significant administrative fines and content removal orders on four major digital streaming platforms: Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Prime Video.

The regulatory body cited violations including obscenity, violence, and content deemed contrary to national and moral values. Specifically, HBO Max was fined 3% and ordered to remove the documentary ‘Bang My Box: The Robin Byrd Story’ for explicit sexual content and the promotion of same-sex relationships. Prime Video received a 5% fine and a removal order for the series ‘Spartacus: House of Ashur’ due to intense violence, blood, and depictions of nudity.

Netflix was penalized for the film ‘Heartstopper: Forever,’ which RTÜK claimed normalized LGBTQ+ lifestyles for a young audience despite its age rating. Disney+ also faced sanctions regarding the series ‘A Teacher’ for content involving a relationship between a teacher and a minor.