Final Word from Friday, October 7, 2005
When Janet Jackson flashed her breast during the Super Bowl, many Americans were upset because their family fun had been spoiled. Europeans might consider this prudish, but there was some logic to it. Breasts normally aren't part of the Super Bowl. The fines this week for nudity and obscene language during "Big Brother" and "VyVolení" are similar, but only to a point. The reality shows contain scenes and language that young children shouldn't be exposed to, but anyone who follows the media knows what to expect from them. There are no Janet-like surprises. The record fines are justifiable under existing law but serve as an alibi for parents. CEO Martin Dvořák of Prima lost a bet and now has to spend 24 hours on the set of "VyVolení." The penalty should perhaps be the same for parents who allow their young children to watch such mind-numbing madness. [Czech Republic]