PTC urges Red Bull, Zeno Hot Spot to avoid "Skins"

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It’s a relentless organization when it sets its sights on a program it deems unacceptable for kids: The Parents Television Council thanked Foot Locker, L’Oreal, Schick, and Subway for halting their sponsorship of the extreme content on “Skins” after they did not appear on the second episode (1/24). None of the eight sponsors PTC called out for advertising during the premiere of “Skins” appeared in the second airing of the program. They also include General Motors, Taco Bell, Wrigley and H&R Block.


PTC President Tim Winter said the advertiser line-up for the second episode mostly contained tune-in for other MTV and Viacom programming along with movies that carried either R or PG-13 ratings: “However, our members and other concerned parents will not stop contacting companies that endorse underage alcohol and drug abuse. Red Bull and Zeno Hot Spot are the next two that will be asked to defend their sponsorship of the graphic content on ‘Skins.’”

He added, “Our sincere hope is that no advertiser would willingly sponsor a program that glorifies teen drug and alcohol abuse, in addition to sexual content involving minors that could actually be illegal.”

RBR-TVBR observation: Red Bull’s target demo is pretty wide, so it may fall as well. However, Zeno Hot Spot is a device that helps reduce and remove blemishes and pimples—directed smack dab at the demo that is watching this show most. It’s not going to be as affected by PTC pressure as the big name advertisers like Taco Bell and GM. Also, the few remaining advertisers on the show are getting a big bang for their buck, almost roadblocking the show’s sponsorship. It should be interesting to see what happens from here.