China has launched an investigation into prominent comedian Guo Degang after he altered lyrics to a well-known revolutionary song during a stand-up performance, according to CNN and Chinese state-affiliated media.
Guo reportedly changed a line from “Playing my beloved pipa” to reference the Forbidden City while performing in Wuhan in late July. A complaint accused him of distorting a revolutionary work and violating public standards, ThePaper reported.
Several of Guo’s performances have also been cancelled, with one theater saying ticket holders would receive automatic refunds. Guo is widely credited with helping revive China’s traditional crosstalk comedy.
The case highlights the restrictions facing performers in China as authorities intensify ideological controls. Similar penalties have previously targeted comedians over jokes involving the military and COVID-19 restrictions.
Related Tweet:
#China’s most famous comedian under investigation for joke about communist song. Sylvie Zhuang has the story.#GuoDeganghttps://t.co/kM7sWnxfJx
— CNN Asia Pacific PR (@cnnasiapr) August 18, 2026
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