A singing contest launched by Chongqing Television Station, mimicking pop shows such as "Super Girl" and "Happy Boy," has been told to cease production by the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television (SARFT), because of its vulgar taste and low quality.

This is the first time that the watchdog of China's radio, film and television industries has openly demanded a TV program like that come to an immediate halt following the watchdog's several other regulations issued earlier this year to impose strict limits on the time span and contents of such live shows.

The contest of Chongqing TV in southwest China, entitled "The First Heartbeat", was commenced in 2006 when it began selecting leading role players for a TV series, according to The Beijing News. In 2007, when its second series followed up, it continuously hit newspaper headlines with negative reviews and criticisms.

At first the producers cooked-up that the director of the show was seriously ill, which was soon proved to be untrue. Subsequently news was released that the shows gay director was using it as a way to engage in illicit activities with participants.

Last Friday one of the judges even cried during recording; she broke down after being challenged by a competitor. Later this part was broadcasted un-cut.

Besides all this, audiences complain about the vulgarity of the content.

He Wei, deputy director of Chongqing Television Station, said their program is under correction.

(CRI.cn August 16, 2007)