Netflix denies reports that it will withdraw from Turkey, remains silent on censorship claims

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Netflix has denied the reports that it decided to withdraw from Turkey after a disagreement with the country's media authority over a LGBTI+ character in a TV series.

"We are deeply committed to our members and the creative community in Turkey," Netflix Turkey said in a written statement. "We are very excited about our projects that are currently in the production phase ... and are looking forward to sharing these stories with our members from all corners of the world."

It was reported that the Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK), which has also been authorized to oversee internet broadcasts since last year, asked Netflix to remove a gay character from the "Şimdiki Aklım Olsaydı" (If I knew then what I know now) series, which will be directed by Çağan Irmak and Umut Aral.

While Netflix denied the reports about its withdrawal in the statement, it didn't mention the allegations of censorship.

Mahir Ünal, the vice-chair and the media head of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), also said that the company wouldn't leave Turkey.

Netflix neither spoke with the AKP's Publicity and Media Directorate nor the Presidency's Communications Directorate, he said on Twitter.

"Why would they think about leaving Turkey? I believe that Netflix will be more sensitive towards Turkish culture and arts with deeper cooperation," he said. (HA/VK)