Chinese comedian Guo Degang is under investigation after reportedly making a humorous alteration to a well-known patriotic song during a performance.
Local authorities confirmed that an investigation into the 53-year-old comedian remains ongoing. However, authorities have not disclosed the current stage of the probe.
The incident reportedly occurred during a performance in Wuhan in July. Guo allegedly improvised part of a 1956 song about Chinese fighters defeating Japanese forces during World War II.
Guo Degang Faces Investigation Over Song Performance
Guo, who comes from Tianjin, is widely known for reviving the traditional Chinese comic dialogue style called crosstalk.
The performance style, known as “xiangsheng” in Chinese, became particularly popular through Guo’s work during the 2000s and 2010s.
He has also appeared on state broadcaster CCTV’s annual Spring Festival Gala. Moreover, he has performed at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People during major events.
However, his recent performance has now drawn official scrutiny.
The Wuhan culture and tourism bureau confirmed that authorities were investigating the comedian. Officials did not provide further details about the investigation.
Patriotic Song Lyrics Allegedly Altered
The controversy centres on the song “Playing My Beloved Pipa”, which dates back to 1956.
The song celebrates Chinese fighters who fought Japanese forces during World War II. It was also recognised in 2019 as an “outstanding” song celebrating the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
During the Wuhan performance, Guo allegedly changed one lyric from “quiet on Weishan Lake” to “quiet in the Forbidden City.”
The Forbidden City served as the former seat of imperial power in China. Guo reportedly delivered the altered lines with a comedic touch.
Authorities reportedly had not approved the changes before the performance.
The local culture bureau was cited as saying the comedian faced scrutiny over “suspected violations” of regulations governing commercial performances.
Other Performances Postponed
The controversy has also affected Guo’s scheduled appearances elsewhere in China.
Venues in several cities have reportedly postponed performances featuring the comedian this month. Some venues have also offered refunds to ticket holders.
Meanwhile, Guo could not be reached through social media for comment. His Weibo account also appeared to have been inactive since August 9.
Tighter Oversight of Comedy Performances
The investigation comes amid tighter official oversight of artistic performances in China.
Authorities have increased scrutiny of comedy shows and other forms of entertainment under President Xi Jinping.
Chinese authorities have also introduced laws aimed at protecting national heroes and symbols from alleged slander.
A similar controversy emerged in 2023 involving comedian Li Haoshi. Authorities fined his performing group heavily and suspended its shows indefinitely after a joke involving the armed forces.
Li had referenced a well-known army slogan while describing his dogs chasing a squirrel. Officials said the joke had “caused a bad social impact” and violated the law.
Guo Degang’s case now adds another controversy to the growing scrutiny surrounding comedy performances in China. However, authorities have yet to disclose the final outcome of the ongoing investigation.
