The most controversial TV show of the year is… going to skip the controversy this time.
Heathers, an update of the ’80s cult comedy in which high school students murder their classmates and make it look like suicide, was supposed to premiere March 7.
But the Paramount Network (formerly Spike TV) announced on Wednesday they are delaying the adaptation “until later this year” in an effort to stay sensitive in the wake of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.
The original satire film involved school shootings and even an attempt to blow up an entire student body. Based on the trailers, the new show likely had similar scenes.
Paramount, who also canceled the planned premiere screening in New York City, wrote in an official statement:
“Paramount Network’s original series “Heathers” is a satirical comedy that takes creative risks in dealing with many of society’s most challenging subjects ranging from personal identity to race and socio-economic status to gun violence. While we stand firmly behind the show, in light of the recent tragic events in Florida and out of respect for the victims, their families and loved ones, we feel the right thing to do is delay the premiere until later this year.”
The show had already been stirring up some backlash — but not because of the violence.
The controversy so far had been surrounding the decision to reinterpret the titular school-ruling mean girl clique from three preppy white girls to those who would have been on the outskirts — a plus-size girl, a genderqueer boy, and an African American girl.
Even weeks before the show’s debut, the move was judged by some to be turning the marginalized into the villains. And several TV critics who saw advanced screenings this week had agreed.
Hmm.
What do YOU think of the Paramount Network’s decision??
[Image via Paramount Network.]
Source: perez hilton