Springer Opera Dodges Blasphemy Bullet

Christian group can't sue BBC director: court

By Sam Gale Rosen, Newser Staff

Posted Dec 5, 2007 9:33 PM CST

(Newser) – A British court has ruled that the BBC can't be prosecuted for blasphemy for airing Jerry Springer—The Opera, which features scenes set in Hell with Jesus and Satan. The High Court ruled that not only is the opera not blasphemous—because it satirizes a TV show rather than attacking religion—but also found that live stage shows shouldn't be prosecuted for blasphemy.

The Christian group that pushed for the prosecution describes the ruling as "carte blanche to blaspheme." Meanwhile, the BBC praised the decision, and free-speech groups say they hope to press ahead with get blasphemy laws off the books altogether. "The obvious next step is to repeal this outdated offense," says a spokeswoman for the group Liberty.

The musical "Jerry Springer, the Opera" is not for everyone. (Photo by Steve Finn/Getty Images) (Getty Images)

Television personality Jerry Springer arrives at the 34th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, on Friday, June 15, 2007. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) (Associated Press)

Wills Morgan as Diaper Man in "Jerry Springer, the Opera," performing at the National Theatre in London. (KRT Photos)

"Jerry Springer, the Opera" has appealed to British stereotyping of Americans, but may not be as savory to Americans with its vulgarity and mockery of overweight, uncouth Americans. (KRT Photos)

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Springer Opera Dodges Blasphemy Bullet

Christian group can't sue BBC director: court

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Anna Nicole Opera Will Premiere in 2011

Libretto is by 'Jerry Springer: The Opera' writer

Afghan Writer's Death Sentence Reduced

Student gets 20 years for 'blasphemy' about women's rights

Arizona Bill Would Restrict Teachers' Speech

Proposed legislation would punish those who violate FCC standards

Twitter Caves, Will Restrict Tweets in Certain Countries

Move represents major policy switch

Man Arrested for Declaring Atheism on Facebook

Indonesian civil servant faces up to 5 years for 'blasphemy'

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