Oh Pooh! Prez bans lookalike Winnie
NEW DISNEY MOVIE STUFFED BY CHINESE
CHINA has banned the latest Winnie-the-Pooh film because he looks like its tubby leader.
Censors barred the release of Christopher Robin, a live action reboot of the tale.
President Xi Jinping, 65, was photographed with former US President Barack Obama in 2013, sparking comparisons to AA Milne’s much-loved bear and his pal Tigger.
The running joke became a lighthearted way for the Chinese people to have a giggle at their boss.
But officials in Beijing have been working around the clock, erasing images and blocking foreign broadcasters accused of “insulting” their dear leader. The movie ban is a big blow for film-maker Disney, which will now miss out on millions of pounds worth of box office receipts.
One film fan tweeted: “It obviously means that the Chinese government admits the resemblance between President Xi and Winnie-the-Pooh.”
The tale will hit UK cinemas later this month.
It stars Scot Ewan McGregor, 47, as a grown-up Christopher who is reunited with his old stuffed toy.
Veteran Dream Works voice actor Jim Cummings, 65, provides the voice of the bear.
CHINA has banned Winnie-thePooh’s new film over comparisons to thin-skinned President Xi.
Relax, it’s only a movie, honey!