FCC rules risqué Victoria's Secret broadcast wasn't indecent
By The Associated Press
03.30.02
Printer-friendly page
WASHINGTON — Federal regulators have ruled that a racy Victoria's Secret fashion special aired last fall did not violate indecency regulations.
ABC, which aired the prime-time show during November sweeps, had defended the program. The network has said its standards division carefully went over the show, that camera shots showing more skin were edited out, and that the hour was clearly identified as being intended only for mature viewers.
The show featuring supermodels strutting in underwear attracted more than 12 million viewers, finishing third in its time slot.
The Federal Communications Commission informed about 20 concerned viewers in e-mails sent March 21 that the program did not meet the strict criteria in the agency's indecency rule.
"It is important to note that any consideration of government action against allegedly indecent programming must take account of the fact that such material is protected under the First Amendment," wrote Charles W. Kelley, head of the FCC's investigations and hearings division. "Based on the information you and other complainants have provided to us, you have not demonstrated that the sexual aspects of the material was, in context, so graphic or explicit as to be patently offensive."
The FCC suggested that another way to change programming would be to contact local station managers.
Though perhaps as many as several hundred people expressed their concerns about the show, only the 20 were counted as formal complaints that needed a response, FCC spokesman David Fiske said. Groups such as the National Organization for Women and the Parents Television Council were among those that publicly criticized ABC for airing the special.
Related
FCC offers broadcasters guidelines to avoid on-air indecency
One commissioner says the effort to clarify rules sets stage for renewed challenge to agency’s authority to regulate radio programming.
04.10.01
Songwriter sues FCC over indecency fine
Poet says agency violated her free-speech rights by penalizing Oregon radio station for playing her song.
01.30.02
FCC commissioner calls for change in 'indecency' definition
'Too many indecency complaints from consumers and too many truly indecent broadcasts are falling through the cracks,' says Michael J. Copps.
11.22.02
