Asim says decision to remove Barzakh from YouTube was made for “artists' safety”

Writer and director Asim Abbasi has stated that the decision to remove the popular fantasy drama Barzakh from YouTube was made to protect the series' team and cast following intense online backlash.

Indian entertainment channel Zindagi announced on Tuesday that Barzakh will be removed from YouTube Pakistan on August 9 after the streaming of its final episode tonight (August 6) at 8pm.

Taking to micro-blogging platform X, director Asim Abbasi said, “No story of mine is worth more than the safety of all the beautiful, talented artists who came together to craft it.”

“So this decision really is for the best. For all those who have showered us with love, I hope you enjoy the finale! And remember - stories never die,” he added. 

Zindagi expressed gratitude to viewers for their positive response to the series “but in light of the current public sentiment in Pakistan,” the channel decided to “voluntarily withdraw Barzakh from YouTube Pakistan."

No story of mine is worth more than the safety of all the beautiful, talented artists who came together to craft it. So this decision really is for the best. For all those who have showered us with love, I hope you enjoy the finale! And remember - stories never die. #Barzakh https://t.co/sSdZAqFtYI

— Asim Abbasi (@IllicitusProduc) August 6, 2024

Barzakh, starring Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed, was highly anticipated before its release due to the reunion of the on-screen couple and its unconventional fantasy storyline.

However, the third episode of Barzakh featured romantic scenes between two male characters.

The portrayal of two male characters with unconventional sexual orientations prompted fans to accuse the series director of promoting a "Western agenda".

Netizens called for a boycott of the series, with many stating that it indoctrinates people to accept same-sex relationships, which goes against their religious and cultural values.