It’s no news that Gossip Girl has been drawing criticism for its racy content and depictions of teenage debauchery. But the recent ad campaign launched by the CW to promote its second season has reignited the flame beneath TV watchdog groups and snobby critics alike. It’s been grabbing the attention of the show’s targeted demographic as well as news sources such as CNN. But this time, the ads (all of which can be found on the CW’s YouTube page) are under fire not only for their salacious content, but also for twisting around the words of critics and using them to glorify the show’s risque themes.

The Parents Television Council is outraged (as usual) over the ads’ audacious use of the organization’s criticism – in advertising the very show these watchdog groups are crusading against. Tim Winter, president of the Parents Television Council, says that the ad campaign is indicative of the CW’s desperate attempts to gain more viewers this fall.

Read More »