BBC rapped over George Michael video

George Michael's videos often draw attention

By Torin Douglas Media correspondent

The Broadcasting Standards Commission (BSC) has upheld 68 complaints about a George Michael video shown on BBC1's Top of the Pops.

It said the controversial "Freeek" video contained sexual images that should not have been shown before the 9pm watershed without a warning.

The video contains erotic images, suggestive movements and scenes of bondage.

The BBC said it understood how some viewers could feel it was inappropriate for showing at 7.30pm on Top of the Pops.

Robbie Williams: Bared his bottom

It said the programme-makers recognised the video was pushing at the boundaries, but believed the artist's reputation as one of Britain's most original song-writers was a strong argument for showing it.

They decided to show a carefully edited version, which they thought brought it within the bounds of acceptability, but the commission disagreed.

It also upheld two complaints about Robbie Williams baring his bottom during ITV's Saturday morning show, SM;TV Live.

The presenters, the Geordie duo Ant and Dec, partially obscured the audience's view and were not aware of the incident.

Complaints rejected

But the BSC said producers should have exercised stricter control.

And Capital Radio DJ Neil Fox was rapped for calling fellow judge Simon Cowell a "retard" on the ITV2 show Pop Idol Extra

A controversial repeat of Brass Eye which satirised paedophilia attracted another 28 complaints, which were rejected.

The BSC was satisfied the Channel 4 programme-makers had preceded the show with a detailed warning of what it contained.