ASK THE EXPERT
THE fourth series of Love Island started last week, with recordbreaking viewing figures.
The ITV2 show is a big hit with younger fans, but its sometimes explicit content might leave some parents worried about what their children are watching.
Here’s everything you need to know...
IS THERE AN AGE RATING FOR LOVE ISLAND VIEWERS?
UNLIKE in other countries, UK TV shows are not given an age rating – they come later, when a series has made its way to a box set, and is no longer airing on TV.
This means anyone, of any age, could watch the show. However, ITV2 shows an advisory warning at the beginning of each episode, as well as on its catch-up service.
It states that Love Island contains ‘strong language and adult content’.
SHOULD I TAKE NOTICE OF THE WATERSHED?
YES, Love Island starts after the 9pm watershed, before which material unsuitable for children should not, in general, be shown. Restrictions last until 5.30am.
Broadcasting watchdog, Ofcom describes it as a way of “protecting children from harmful material on TV and radio”.
The cut-off time doesn’t mean broadcasters can show whatever they want, just because it’s past 9pm.
Ofcom says: “The transition to more adult material must not be unduly abrupt and the strongest material should appear later in the evening.”
This should give parents an indication on whether the show is suitable viewing for their children.
It could be that you’re comfortable letting younger kids watch the first half but not the second.
WHAT IS DEFINED AS ‘UNSUITABLE MATERIAL’?
OFCOM says: “Unsuitable material can include everything from sexual content to violence, graphic or distressing imagery and swearing.
“For example, the most offensive language must not be broadcast before the watershed on TV or, on radio, when children are particularly likely to be listening.
“Frequent use of offensive language must be avoided before the watershed, and must always be justified by its context.”