• by Wayne Friedman , August 2, 2005

FX, which stirs controversy because of many of its adult-themed, adult-language shows, has another storm brewing. A national organization on eating disorders says an upcoming FX show, "Starved," about eating disorders--anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating--could be "dangerous."

Lynn Grefe, CEO of the National Eating Disorders Association--the oldest and largest eating disorder association, with 8,000 members--said in a statement that the show could lead "some sufferers to identify with the characters, justify their own behavior, and resist treatment. Americans wouldn't find it acceptable to ridicule and mock people with physical disabilities or a disease like leukemia, and I don't believe they'll find it tolerable to satirize mental illness."

The seven-episode series "Starved" focuses on the lives of four 30-something friends--three men and one woman--who battle various eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating. The organization feels that the series not only misrepresents people with serious diseases--it also believes the show could give young girls tips on how to keep themselves thin. After the show debuts, the group plans to write TV advertisers, asking them to withdraw their advertising support.

FX executives met with Grefe back in May. "The meetings were cordial," said an FX spokesman. "She [Grefe] expressed concern." Grefe also met with one of the show's producers, said the spokesman. But since then the spokesman, to his knowledge, hasn't heard from the group until its press release yesterday.

Positive reviews from critics and the poignancy of the series' writing led FX executives to believe the show is in good taste. The FX spokesman says many of the on-air and off-air talent have battled their own eating disorders--including Eric Schaffer, the executive producer, director, and star of the series.

Because it is a situation comedy, the NEDA feels the show takes its subject with a flippant tone. The FX spokesman says: "It's subject matter that will offend some segment of the audience."

FX, which wouldn't disclose any of its advertisers, has been known for its edgy prime-time material--such as "The Shield," "Nip/Tuck," and "Rescue Me." Initially, many have a difficult time in signing up advertisers. But when these shows get ratings, FX has an easier time making advertising deals.