"13 Reasons Why": Aussie Schools Are Sending Home Warnings; US Parents Want It Cancelled

Trigger Warning: This article discusses suicide and sexual abuse.

Netflix may have seen the storm of controversy coming with the second season of 13 Reasons Why, but it seems the actions they’ve taken to ease concerned parents and teachers isn’t enough for some.

According to the ABC, a number of Australian schools have started issuing letters home to parents and guardians, warning them of the content in the massively popular teen show.

It’s a repeat of what happened in 2017, when schools began alerting mums and dads about the first season, which centers on the suicide of teenager Hannah Baker, played by Perth’s Katherine Langford.

Season 2 continues to explore the aftermath of Hannah’s death, which is also tied up with the sexual assault of classmate Jessica Davis (Alisha Boe). The second season (spoiler alert) culminates with another sexual assault that has been described as one of the most graphic in the history of television.

Last year, headspace criticised 13 Reasons Why for exposing children to risky content. They collaborated with Netflix this time around to produce safe and informative resources on the subject matter dealt with in the show.

Netflix also included a content warning ahead of the first episode of the new season, along with a companion website that directs visitors to relevant crisis help lines: 13reasonswhy.info

However, that’s not been enough for the Parents Television Council in the United States, an advocacy group urging Netflix to cancel 13 Reasons Why, calling it “a ticking time bomb to teens and children”.

Cancellation seems unlikely though, even with all the controversy. Netflix may not release stats on how many viewers are tuning in, but you only need to consider how quickly 13 Reasons Why dominated the pop culture conversation to recognise this is a hit, for better or worse.

What do you reckon?

Are you experiencing suicidal thoughts, sexual assault or domestic and family violence? Seeking to support someone who is? Call Lifeline on 131 114 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

Visit ReachOut to get support to help you with everything from everyday issues through to tough times.

Photo: Netflix