Netflix cuts controversial suicide scene in 13 Reasons Why two years after it first aired
THE controversial suicide scene in 13 Reasons Why has been edited out two years after it first aired on Netflix.
The series came under fire after experts claimed it "increased suicidal thoughts in vulnerable teens" by sensationalising 17-year-old Hannah's death.
Now the graphic three-minute long scene showing Hannah in the bathtub taking her own life has been altered.
In a statement, Netflix said: "We've heard from many young people that 13 Reasons Why encouraged them to start conversations about difficult issues like depression and suicide and get help — often for the first time.
"As we prepare to launch season three later this summer, we've been mindful about the ongoing debate around the show.
"So on the advice of medical experts, including Dr. Christine Moutier, chief medical officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, we've decided with creator Brian Yorkey and the producers to edit the scene in which Hannah takes her own life from season one."
The episode opens with the warning: "The following episode contains graphic depictions of suicide and violence, which some viewers may find disturbing.
"It is intended for mature audiences. Viewer discretion is advised."
The explicit scene no longer features in the episode.
Instead it cuts straight to the moment Hannah's mum finds her lifeless body.
It follows a study revealing the number of American children killing themselves soared by almost a third after the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why was released.
Almost 200 more youngsters aged ten to 17 took their lives following the hit drama's debut in 2017, US researchers found.
Netflix will now reportedly try to remove pirated clips featuring the original, unedited scene.
Creator Brian Yorkey said: "It was our hope, in making 13 Reasons Why into a television show, to tell a story that would help young viewers feel seen and heard, and encourage empathy in all who viewed it, much as the best-selling book did before us.
"Our creative intent in portraying the ugly, painful reality of suicide in such graphic detail in season one was to tell the truth about the horror of such an act, and make sure no one would ever wish to emulate it. "But as we ready to launch season three, we have heard concerns about the scene from Dr. Christine Moutier at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and others, and have agreed with Netflix to re-edit it.
"No one scene is more important than the life of the show, and its message that we must take better care of each other.
"We believe this edit will help the show do the most good for the most people while mitigating any risk for especially vulnerable young viewers."
It's thought the third series of the hit drama will return in October 2019.
Extra Zach Pursack let slip about the release date before it had been officially confirmed.