Producers Scared of Legal Trouble?

MTV is reportedly nervous that upcoming episodes of its remake of the U.K. hit series Skins run the risk of violating federal child pornography statutes, according to The New York Times.

The show, which ditched its gay male character for the U.S. version but has a lesbian character, depicts the sex- and drug-fueled lives of teenagers. Producers are reportedly concerned with a scene in the series' third episode, in which a naked 17-year-old actor is shown from behind as he runs down a street.

MTV spokeswoman Jeannie Kedas wouldn't confirm if the network is concerned about the episode, but told The New York Times that all future episodes of the series are still works in progress.

The episode in question is scheduled to air in 11 days.

"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."

According to the Times article, child pornography is definedin the United States as any visual depiction of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. In some cases, "a picture of a naked child may constitute illegal child pornography if it is sufficiently sexually suggestive," according to the Justice Department's legal guidance. Anyone younger than 18 is considered a minor.