TLC Networks Respond to 'Virgin Diaries' Criticism
Following the strong reaction of viewers to TLC’s “Virgin Diaries” television show clip, the network is responding to the criticism.
Timothy Kuryak, TLC’s west coast vice president of production, released a statement to answer those believing the show mocked people’s choice to abstain.
“We’re not trying to make light of this or treat it in a sort of trivial way. We want to document these peoples’ stories and why they make this decision,” Kuryak said in the statement. “A lot of stories about later in life virgins talk about it like a problem. We want to show that this is something that can be celebrated.”
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The clip of the upcoming reality show featured a couple who share an awkward kiss at their wedding ceremony, after the groom revealed that he has abstained from engaging in sexual relations "entirely by choice."
On the Daily Mail website, some have called the kiss "embarrassing," "refreshing" and "revolting." However Dr. Jennifer Lander, of BodyLogic MD, told FOX that the show could be great for the image of celibacy.
““Celibacy is so rare these days, it could be refreshing,” she said. “This will give other women who may be considering celibacy role models to look up to.”
The doctor went on to explain the benefits of choosing to live a celibate lifestyle.
“Celibacy is an excellent way to prevent the myriad of STD’s that women are exposed to nowadays,” Lander said. “If done right it just could increase numbers of couples who wait which may just decrease STD risk in our young people which would be a positive influence."
TLC networks are known for tackling subjects that the media rarely addresses with shows like “Sister Wives” that documents the American polygamist lifestyle. Their newest reality series will make its debut on Dec. 4 at 9:00 p.m. ET.
