Though long a staple of modern Chinese entertainment, television shows and movies set in the imperial past are now being targeted by communist Chinese authorities. Popular period dramas have been disappearing from TV channels, streaming sites, and cinemas in what seems to be an unannounced crackdown.
In January, state media ran criticisms of historical dramas, saying they distorted history. Insiders and observers speculate that the ban has much to do with ideological concerns and conflicts within the industry.
