Once again we ask ourselves, is the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show too indecent to be shown on broadcast television, and should the FCC prevent the show from airing again in the future? Each year post-show, thousands of complaints flood the FCC, White House, and network that aired the show (most recently CBS).

Concerned Women for America’s Chief Counsel Jan LaRue once described the show as a “high-tech striptease”, and a writer for the organization called it a “parading, thong-clad harem”. A few years back, LaRue also added:

“It’s no secret - Americans are fed up with trash TV,” LaRue said. “Mr. Copps [FCC Commissioner at the time] understands it. Maybe even FCC Chairman Michael Powell will get it - broadcasting strip shows in prime time isn’t in the ‘public interest.’ And coming in third, maybe even CBS will get the message; we’re sick of mindless TV for brain-donors who’ve already given.”

First off, the fashion show is no strip-tease - the models walk the runway without removing garments. And Victoria’s Secret want to display their lingerie, not remove it. They want profits, and can’t sell lingerie by showing naked breasts. Additionally, I can’t recall seeing many thongs out there. The show is meant to be classy for mainstream lingerie, and the elaborate get-ups (ie. wings) often distract from all the skin that is visible.

Other critics feel that children are watching television at the time of the show. In my opinion, children should not be watching TV at 9pm on a schoolnight, unless its a major live news event. The parents should be responsible for their children, and not the FCC.

A fashion show is a display of beauty and aesthetics by visual and aural means. If the parading of attractive women in lingerie makes you sick, then I feel sorry for you in the bedroom.