Apple Inc.’s AAPL streaming platform, Apple TV+, has ended “The Problem With Jon Stewart” over reported “creative differences,” specifically concerning the show’s coverage of artificial intelligence and China.
What Happened: “The Problem With Jon Stewart,” a political talk show featuring Stewart, was hailed as one of Apple TV+’s major accomplishments when it was announced in 2020.
The show’s success had been partially attributed to its critical perspective on various issues, making it a hit for Apple TV+.
However, its third season, which was set to begin production, has been abruptly halted due to these reported creative differences, reported The Verge (via The New York Times).
While the report did not delve into the specifics of Apple’s disagreements with the show’s intended discussions on artificial intelligence and China, it was evident that these topics had become contentious.
Cupertino approached Stewart and expressed the need to align the show’s content and the company’s views on the topics discussed.
When faced with the ultimatum to conform or see the show canceled, the report noted that Stewart and his team chose to walk away from the project, cites The Hollywood Reporter.
Why It’s Important: The cancellation of “The Problem With Jon Stewart” has raised questions about Apple’s stance on issues related to China, which has been a major market for the company, accounting for about 20% of its sales.
Earlier this week, it was reported that Apple CEO Tim Cook met with China’s commerce minister Wang Wentao for the second time in 2023. This is significant because of the growing concerns regarding a potential iPhone ban by the Xi Jinping administration in the country.
Meanwhile, the tech giant’s presence in China has been facing some challenges, with the latest iPhone 15 range failing to replicate the success of its predecessor, the iPhone 14.
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