Did they take the bathtub scene out of 13 Reasons Why?

Did They Take the Bathtub Scene Out of 13 Reasons Why?

In 2017, Netflix released the highly anticipated drama series "13 Reasons Why", based on the best-selling novel by Jay Asher. The show received widespread attention for its depiction of teen suicide, sexual assault, and other heavy themes. However, one of the most controversial aspects of the show was its graphic portrayal of suicide and violence, including the infamous bathtub scene in the Season 1 finale.

The Original Bathtub Scene

In the original cut of the Season 1 finale, the character Hannah Baker, played by Katherine Langford, takes her own life by cutting her wrists in a bathtub. The scene is disturbingly graphic, showing Hannah’s blood-soaked body as she slips underwater and remains motionless. This scene sparked outrage and criticism from mental health professionals, advocacy groups, and audiences worldwide.

Netflix’s Response

In the wake of the controversy, Netflix announced that it would reedit the scene to remove some of the most graphic content. The reedited version of the finale omitted the scene of Hannah cutting her wrists, instead focusing on the aftermath of her death. However, many viewers still found the revised scene disturbing and potentially triggering for those who had experienced trauma.

Why the Decision was Made

The decision to reedit the scene was reportedly made after feedback from mental health experts and viewers. The show’s creator, Brian Yorkey, explained that the revised scene aimed to focus on the consequences of suicide and the importance of seeking help. "[We] made a change to the scene that removed the most graphic and disturbing content," Yorkey stated.

Did the Decision Have a Significant Impact?

The revised scene received a mixed reaction from audiences. While some viewers appreciated the less graphic portrayal of suicide, others felt that the decision didn’t go far enough. Mental health advocates also raised concerns that the show still potentially glorified or sensationalized suicide.

Key Points to Remember

• The bathtub scene was originally graphic and disturbing: The scene showed Hannah’s blood-soaked body and explicit details of her suicide.

• Netflix reedited the scene after criticism: The revised version removed some of the most graphic content, but still maintained the overall message and tone of the original scene.

• Mental health experts and advocates criticized the show: The depiction of suicide and violence sparked outrage and concerns about potential triggers for vulnerable viewers.

• The show’s creators maintained that the goal was to focus on consequences, not glorify suicide: "[We] want to make it clear that the show is not trying to sensationalize or glorify suicide," Brian Yorkey emphasized.

• The debate highlights the complexities of representation in media: The controversy raises important questions about the role of media in addressing heavy topics like suicide, and the need for sensitive and responsible representation.

In conclusion, while the decision to reedit the bathtub scene was made in an attempt to reduce graphic content, the controversy surrounding the show highlights the ongoing debates and complexities surrounding representation in media.