The show provoked an outcry from groups concerned about eating disorders. The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Eating Disorders and a British parliamentary group lodged formal complaints with the network. The show, they believe, promotes disordered eating and exercise to a vulnerable and impressionable audience.
The audition website (www.mtvmodelmaker.com), which is still available, makes no secret about its intention for show contestants, luring girls in with this shocking statement (emphasis added):
Have you always wanted to model but don't know where to start? Maybe you don't know the right people. Maybe you are not thin enough. Women come in all shapes and sizes, but models don't. The term model conjures an image of stick-thin, towering beauties oozing confidence, glamour, poise and sexuality from every pore. Skinny, no body fat, and size zero are the words and phrases associated with models. Chubby, well-fed, and big- boned are not&
Hopefully MTVs move to cancel the show is evidence of a positive shift in popular culture. According to various internet sources, the network received a significant number of letters from viewers who objected to the shows concept and message. (Source: USAToday.com)
Posted By: Vee