– Global entertainment giant Disney (DIS.N) has abruptly canceled the release of its highly anticipated TV crime series, Avetrana – This is not Hollywood, which was set to premiere on October 25 on Disney+. The decision follows a successful legal challenge by the mayor of Avetrana, a small Italian town, who argued that the show unfairly tarnished the town’s reputation.
The series, based on the real-life 2010 murder of 15-year-old Sarah Scazzi by her family members, dramatizes the tragic case and the intense media scrutiny that ensued. The crime captivated Italy, with around-the-clock media coverage depicting disturbing details about family betrayal and the sensationalism that followed. Although the series is fictionalized, it closely mirrors the events surrounding the crime, sparking concerns about its impact on Avetrana’s image.
Mayor Antonio Minò initiated the legal proceedings, asserting that the show’s portrayal of Avetrana perpetuates negative stereotypes and unjustly vilifies the community. The court upheld Minò’s complaint, leading Disney to halt the series’ release.
“The events that took place in Avetrana were tragic, and we all remember them with sadness. But continuously linking our town to this horror serves no purpose other than to damage our reputation,” Minò stated. “Avetrana is a community of people who have moved on and who want to be known for more than a tragedy that happened over a decade ago.”
The series’ cancellation has sparked debate in Italy, with some supporting the decision to protect the town’s image, while others argue that creative works should retain the freedom to explore real-life events. Disney has yet to comment on whether it plans to rework the series or seek an alternative release.
As one of the latest cases involving real-life crime portrayals, Avetrana – This is not Hollywood highlights the delicate balance between creative freedom and community sensitivity. Disney is expected to evaluate its approach to future productions involving sensitive real-world subjects, especially those based in small towns and close-knit communities.
