China's broadcasting regulatory body has called for "severe punishment" for popular television host Bi Fujian, who called statesman Mao Zedong an "old son of a bitch" in a leaked viral video.

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56-year-old Bi has since been suspended from on-air duties by state-owned China Central Television (CCTV). His title as an ambassador of a national education project has also been revoked for negatively influencing students.

In the video uploaded online on April 6, Bi, who was dining with friends, is shown singing "Taking Tiger Mountain by Strategy" - an opera created during the Cultural Revolution (1966-76).

The host of "Star Boulevard" made a couple of satirical remarks about Chairman Mao, founder of the People's Republic of China. Mao led the country through the Cultural Revolution and remained at the helm of the state until his death in 1976.

During Mao's tenure, China experienced a transformation. However, the state was gripped by a famine, which saw millions die.

"Let's not talk about this son of a bitch any longer, he's caused us so much suffering!" Bi said in reference to Mao in the 76-second video. The video has been viewed more 300,000 times on Youtube. It attracted over 100,000 comments on Sina Weibo, just one hour after it was posted.

On Sunday, China Discipline Inspection Daily, a publication affiliated with state anti-corruption watchdog, reported that Bi had "used ridicule to harm the image of the older generation of the Communist Party and the (late) state leader."

The State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television (SAPPRFT) condemned Bi remarks. SAPPRFT has urged CCTV to impose more severe punishment on Bi because his actions went further than a mere violation of discipline.

SAPPRFT further demanded that CCTV deals with the issue more seriously and "educate it entire staff" in order to avert "serious violation of political disciplines."

CCTV initially announced that Bi would be suspended for four days while the matter was investigated. The state broadcaster said the case would be handled very seriously as Bi's comments has caused a "major social impact."

Bi, who has since been replaced by another host on the popular talent show "Star Boulevard," has apologized for his reckless comments.

"I feel guilty and sorry for my comments which left a negative impact on society," he wrote on Sina Weibo. "I hereby offer to the public my deepest regrets. As a public figure, I have learned my lesson and will observe self-discipline."

TagsBi Fujian, Bi Fujian Video, Bi Fujian YouTube, Bi Fujian Mao, Mao Zedong, Bi Fujian New York Times, Bi Fijuan CCTV, China Central Television (CCTV)