Netflix Says They're Reducing Amount of Smoking in Their Original Content

Netflix received some major attention this week, and not just because Season 3 of Stranger Things arrived.

The streaming service made headlines for being mentioned in a Truth Initiative study about the negative impact of frequent depictions of cigarettes in youth-focused series, such as Stranger Things, as reported by ScreenRant.

Netflix quickly responded to the study, avoiding more criticism by quickly announcing a change to their filming practices. Deadline reports that Netflix is now changing their original content with ratings of TV-14 or below by making them smoking and e-cigarette free, starting later this year, with exceptions for historical or factual accuracy. The service vowed, “There’ll be no smoking or e-cigarettes unless it’s essential to the creative vision of the artist or because it’s character-defining.” Series and films made for mature viewers will be given more freedom with tobacco products.

Netflix also stated that a specific rating will be issued, warning viewers prior to watching that smoking will be included in the film or series. This will give viewers the opportunity to take necessary precautions if watching with a younger audience.

According to ScreenRant, Congress passed the Public Health Cigarette Smoking Act, which banned cigarette ads on TV and radio, in 1971. Despite the ban, however, fictional characters have continued to light up onscreen to enhance the aesthetic.

How will the characters behind Netflix shows like Stranger Things deal with the stress of threats such as the Upside Down without their trusty cigs? They'll have to find a way.