(LOS ANGELES, Cal.) The Parents Television Council called upon congress and the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the new MTV teen drama "Skins" for possible violations of child pornography and exploitation laws.
The PTC, which calls itself a non-partisan education organization advocating responsible entertainment, says it counted numerous sexual situations and at least 42 depictions and references to drugs and alcohol in the 41-minute premiere episode this week.
PTC President Tim Winter sent letters to the heads of the Senate and House Judiciary Committees as well as the U.S. Attorney general and the FCC, asking for an investigation. The episode of Skins featured "all manner of foul language, illegal drug use, illegal activity as well as thoroughly pervasive sexual content. Moreover, future episodes promise much more of the same," Winter wrote.
In a statement, MTV responded by saying "Skins is a show that addresses real-world issues confronting teens in a frank way. We review all of our shows and work with all of our producers on an ongoing basis to ensure our shows comply with laws and community standards."
The outcry has already led Taco Bell to pull its advertising from "Skins" and move it to other MTV programming, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Broadcasting and Cable reported the series premiere Monday drew an audience of 3.2 million and was the second most-viewed show on cable TV among teens aged 12 to 17.
