Zhejiang Satellite TV announced on Friday that it has temporarily suspended the popular singing contest reality show "Sing! China" because of recent controversies. These controversies stem from a leaked audio clip that suggests the late pop diva Coco Lee was mistreated by staff, along with other hidden issues of unfairness and manipulation.

A file photo shows the late pop star Coco Lee appearing on the show "The Voice of China," which was later rebranded as "Sing! China." [Photo/VCG]

"Considering the issues raised by viewers and internet users regarding the program 'Sing! China,' an investigation is currently underway, and the show has been temporarily suspended from airing," said the TV network in a brief statement. However, the topic quickly skyrocketed to trending status, garnering 260 million views on posts discussing the story on the social media platform Weibo within two hours.

Last Thursday, a nine-minute audio clip, allegedly from the late singer Coco Lee, who had been a mentor on the show, went viral on social media. In the clip, Lee voiced concerns about a contestant with higher scores being eliminated while another with lower scores received a second chance. She cited mistreatment on the show after raising concerns about the judging system. The leaked clip also contained allegations of intentional insults by the program director, resulting in her falling without assistance. Another leaked video showed her stating she had been asked to leave the show by two of the director's assistants, who threatened to call security when she voiced her concerns. She also said one of the women grabbed her shirt, attempting to drag her offstage.

Lee reportedly attempted suicide at her home on July 2 and was later hospitalized in an unconscious state. Despite medical intervention, she sadly passed away on July 5. Lee had been diagnosed with depression several years prior, and the leaked audio revealed she was also battling breast cancer and coping with a leg injury during her time on the show.

In the wake of this, enraged fans and internet users heavily criticized the show, demanding an apology, cancellation of the show, and even a boycott.

However, the official Sina Weibo account of "Sing! China," formerly "The Voice of China," issued a statement on Aug. 17. It contended that the audio in which Lee made allegations against the show had been manipulated and taken out of context. This statement firmly criticized internet users and bloggers, asserting that any misunderstandings between Lee and the show had been addressed. The statement declared that no further explanations would be given, but this only intensified public anger.

Zhejiang Media Group, the show's broadcaster, released a statement on Sunday evening, expressing their dedication to a comprehensive investigation and addressing public concerns. They recognized Zhejiang Satellite TV's role in ensuring oversight and meeting its broadcasting responsibilities. The statement also urged the show's producer, Star CM Holdings Limited, to take public feedback seriously and prioritize fairness and respect in program production.

The statement failed to appease public anger. More artists stepped forward to support Lee, and some contestants even exposed questionable practices in the show. Throughout its 12-year history, the well-known variety show has faced multiple crises. Controversies have frequently surrounded the program since its inception, with instructors and contestants revealing conflict behind the scenes and some resorting to legal action.

The public's backlash is also reflected financially. Star CM Holdings, the parent company of "Sing! China," has witnessed a steep fall in its stock price on the Hong Kong stock market since Aug. 18. By Aug. 25, the stock's value had plummeted by 56% over this period. Consequently, Star CM Holdings' market capitalization has reduced by over 26 billion Hong Kong dollars ($3.3 billion) in just six trading days.

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