Prank Encounters: Netflix defends new show with Stranger Things star Gaten Matarazzo

Critics claimed show was about ‘screwing with people trying to find work’

Netflix has defended its new show Prank Encounters after its premise was branded “disgusting” before the first episode aired.

The hidden-camera show, which is hosted and executive produced by Stranger Things star Gaten Matarazzo, follows job seekers on what they think is their first day of a new position.

A Netflix press release describes the show as follows: “Each episode of this terrifying and hilarious prank show takes two complete strangers who each think they’re starting their first day at a new job.

“It’s business as usual until their paths collide and these part-time jobs turn into full-time nightmares.”

Following the show’s announcement last week, many criticised the series for potentially having a harmful effect on those looking for work.

The main cause of concern seemed to be that the show would mock people who were unemployed.

AV Club claimed it was “screwing with people trying to find work”.

“Props to Matarazzo,” writer William Hughes commented. “This is a far scarier premise than any monster that’s ever crawled out of the Upside Down”.

However, in a statement issued to Metro.co.uk following the backlash, a Netflix spokesperson said: ‘The pranks in Prank Encounters are spooky, supernatural, and over the top, and everyone had a great time.

“All participants came in with the expectation this was a one-day, hourly gig and everyone got paid for their time.”