California (Web Desk): Netflix Inc. is removing a controversial graphic scene depicting a youth suicide from its popular young adult drama “13 Reasons Why”, the company said on its Twitter account.
"No one scene is more important than the life of the show, and its message that we must take better care of each other." #13ReasonsWhy showrunner Brian Yorkey explains why he is editing that controversial scene from season one https://t.co/DQwS97AzV9
— Hollywood Reporter (@THR) July 16, 2019
Netflix said the decision had been made "on the advice of medical experts".
The first series of the show featured a graphic depiction of Hannah (Katherine Langford) taking her own life.
The version now hosted on the streaming site omits this three-minute scene and goes directly to a later scene in which her body is discovered.
Samaritans said it "welcomed" Netflix's decision and that it had been working with the streaming service's UK team "to provide advice on the safe portrayal of suicide".
"While covering difficult topics in drama can help to increase understanding and encourage people to seek help, it's important this is done in a responsible way," said Lorna Fraser from the charity's media advisory service.
