A complaint that derogatory opinions were broadcast about mental institutions was not upheld. In so far as some observations tended to be in lighter vein, it was pointed out that the limits set by the Code for the protection of dignity were not overstepped. The Complaint was not upheld. [2014] JOL 32113 (BCCSA) CLICK TO [...]
The complaint concerning unsuitable language for children was received from a parent who raises his children on religious values and principles. [2014] JOL 32620 (BCCSA) CLICK TO VIEW FULL ADJUDICATION
Complaints were received about the airing of a programme at 17:30. The programme amounted to what appears to have been a mock trial of two estranged lovers. The Complaint by the female partner was that the respondent had made an intimate video of her bathing, without her having been aware of it. The complaints in [...]
Reference to conduct which would be understood as bestiality not acceptable in terms of the Broadcasting Code. No circumstances excusing such reference. Alternatively, harmful to children. Complaint upheld. Fine of R5000 imposed. [2014] JOL 31772 (BCCSA) CLICK TO VIEW FULL JUDGMENT
The Complaint was that MNET, in a Carte Blanche programme on the evening of 23 February, failed to provide the Complainants, Mr Diamond in particular, with a right of reply on some of the crucial matters, thereby allowing the formation of opinion based upon incorrect facts. The Broadcaster responded that the Complainants had followed a [...]
Film with initially published age restriction of 18 broadcast from 19:30 onwards, before the watershed of 20:00 that applies to subscription broadcasters, and without an 18 electronic parental guidance notice or any classification. Contravention of Code conceded by broadcaster. Fine of R25 000 imposed. [2014] JOL 31773 (BCCSA) CLICK TO VIEW FULL JUDGMENT [...]
Complaints were received concerning a programme broadcast by the respondent broadcaster, which is currently running on a weekly basis. The programme, which is recorded with a live audience, amounts to a play in which a few characters, who are without a script, respond to instructions from a behind-the-scenes director. The television audience is privy to [...]
The issue before the Tribunal was whether the publication of the face of a woman who had been raped, was permissible. Her face, and therefore her identity, was only divulged in one instance, while in other instances her face had been blocked out. At the hearing of the matter a letter, signed by the woman, [...]
The Respondent, a subscription television broadcaster, broadcast a news commentary which included visuals of a semi-intimate nature pertaining to a surgical operation. The issue was whether it should not have included an age restriction and classification. The Tribunal held that, since the News and Comment clause in the Subscription Broadcasting Code does not require classification [...]
This complaint is against the promotion (promo) of an episode in a series called "Woolfblood", described by the Respondent as a youth fantasy drama. Although short in duration, the promo contained scenes of growing human teeth and finger nails, suggesting an episode of a horror movie and requiring an age restriction of 13. The Tribunal [...]