Producers told to tone down 'Skins'

NEW YORK, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- MTV executives have ordered producers to tone down some sexually explicit scenes featuring underage actors in the drama "Skins," The New York Times said.

The edgy new show is in large part about teen sex and drug use. Rated TV-MA, meaning the content may be unsuitable for viewers younger than 17, "Skins" is an adaptation of the equally racy British series of the same name.

Concerned the American version, which has a cast of unknowns mainly in the 15-19 age range, may violate child-pornography laws, MTV executives have ordered the show's producers to soften some of its more sexually explicit content featuring younger members of the ensemble, the Times said.

However, MTV spokeswoman Jeannie Kedas told the newspaper future episodes of "Skins" are works in progress and subject to changes.

"'Skins' is a show that addresses real-world issues confronting teens in a frank way," Kedas said in a statement. "We review all of our shows and work with all of our producers on an ongoing basis to ensure our shows comply with laws and community standards. We are confident that the episodes of 'Skins' will not only comply with all applicable legal requirements, but also with our responsibilities to our viewers."