Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Talent shows like the X Factor have been warned about showing "sexualised clothing and dance routines" by communications watchdog Ofcom.
A new report cites the show's 2010 final which featured Christina Aguilera and her backing dancers in a racy routine Ofcom described as "at the very margin of acceptability" after thousands of viewers complained.
US singer Aguilera donned a short black dress while her female dancers, who were bent over chairs, wore suspenders, bra tops, fishnet stockings and basques in the raunchy routine which was estimated to have been watched by more than one million children.
The watchdog has held a series of meetings with broadcasters and issued new guidance on "protecting" under-18s and "observing" the 9pm watershed.
It asked broadcasters to pay particular attention to programmes shown before and soon after the watershed and music videos shown before 9pm.
The report states "particular caution" is needed for family shows that continue through the watershed "as the family audience is still likely to remain viewing the programme".
It goes on: "In the entertainment and talent genres, particular areas of concern include the sexualised clothing and dance routines of performers and/or guest artistes".
Speaking earlier this month, X Factor supremo Simon Cowell said the show will be toned "down a bit" after "the reaction" to last year's final.
The report also warns broadcasters "to ensure that children are protected by appropriate scheduling" of music videos.
It highlights the "Urban and R&B genres in particular" which it says are "well known for including mild sexual content and innuendo".
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments