China to ban guest host in TV shows

BEIJING - Guests of TV programs will no longer be allowed to be employed as presenters, according to a circular issued by the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television.

TV shows, including news, commentary and interview panels should not recruit guests in the role of supporting host, said the circular.

The roles of guest and host in broadcasting and TV programs should be clear-cut, the circular said.

TV hosts are responsible for the show; guiding the audience and controlling the pace of the live broadcast. Thus, it is unsuitable for guests to be hosts or presenters.

The circular also called for more training for hosts and guests before the show is recorded.

The regulation will officially take effect on July 1.

TV stations often hire famous actors, actresses and celebrities as guest hosts, especially for popular reality shows, which might result in improper remarks or mistakes during live broadcasting.

All TV hosts must have vocational qualifications, and there will be an inspection launched in the near future to check on their qualifications, according to the administration.