These reports are case summaries of complaints which appeared to raise issues of substance in relation to the interpretation of the ITC Programme Code. Summary statistics of non-substantive complaints can be found in the full reports which are obtainable from the ITC.
Showing Complaints & Interventions Report for YOUR FACE OR MINE
Channel: Channel 4
Date & time: Tuesday 20 May: 6.00pm
Category: Other Taste & Decency
Complaint from: 1 viewer
Background
Your Face or Mine is a game show that challenges contestants to predict whether others judge them good-looking. The programme begins with two presenters interviewing the featured couple about their relationship.
Issue
In this edition, the opening interview was adult in tone: discussion of the couple's use of viagra; lightly veiled comments about penis size; more explicit comments about penis hygiene; and a discussion of the female contestant's breast implants.
The complainant objected to the content, believing that the programme was scheduled too early.
Assessment
Defending the show, Channel 4 argued that the sexual references were oblique and arose in the context of exploring self image, values and relationships; the innuendo about penis size and the direct discussion of viagra use would have little meaning to children or younger viewers. They also argued that the programme dealt with themes affecting teenagers, such as breast implants, that are seen at this time of day in 'soaps' like Hollyoaks. Channel 4 felt that consistency of audience share suggested that the show had regular viewers who would know what to expect in the programme.
The ITC did not accept that the arguments presented by the licensee were an adequate defence.
The interview had sex as a narrative strand throughout, which provided the context for younger viewers to understand or question the 'oblique' references and innuendo. While breast implants are not a taboo subject during family viewing time, the approach to discussing them was more humorous and entertaining than informative or educative for young girls who might be concerned about the issues it raises.
There is some similarity to themes raised in programmes like Hollyoaks, but the level of crudity in the approach taken in this programme pushed it into a more adult arena. It also lacked the context provided by teen soaps and other drama.
Conclusion
The ITC concluded that the programme was inappropriately scheduled before the watershed and contravened section 1.2 of the Programme Code.
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