UPN has rejected requests by congressmen and its affiliate stations to preview the controversial reality show "Amish in the City" ahead of its July 28 premiere.
"Amish" -- a reality series that chronicles a group of young Amish men and women ages 18-24 as they first encounter the modern world -- was shot secretly in a Hollywood Hills hideaway after initial news of its development provoked some outcries.
"We just felt it was a better way for us to get the show made," UPN entertainment president Dawn Ostroff told reporters Tuesday during the network's portion of the Television Critics Assn. press tour at the Century Plaza Hotel. "I think it's a unique reality show in that it really is a journey of discovery for these young adults."
Given the subject's sensitivity, congressmen and affiliate stations had asked to view the series before its premiere, worried that the show might expose the conservative religious sect to ridicule.
"I don't want to be judged by a member of Congress before the show goes on the air," said Leslie Moonves, the Viacom co-president and co-chief operating officer who oversees both UPN and CBS. "And it's not our practice to screen things and get affiliates to approve or disapprove what we're putting on the air."
"Amish in the City" will premiere with two one-hour episodes next Wednesday, beginning at 8 p.m. ET/PT.