The Safe House - Expositions

It's common for broadcast and ad-supported cable networks to edit theatrical films for language and other content that audiences and advertisers find inappropriate.

But "Alias," which stars Jennifer Garner as a graduate student who works as a CIA agent, airs on an over-the-air network, where standards are typically more rigid than cable.

An "Alias" viewer will hear such words as "bitch" and "bastard" when the show airs Sunday nights on ABC, but not on ABC Family.

ABC Family spokeswoman Nicole Nichols said the unusual measure is taken out of respect for viewers who go to the channel as a safe haven from racy programs.

"ABC's standards are high and they work well for ABC Family," she said. "There are a few exceptions made for language in the case of 'Alias.'"

Ironically, while the language on "Alias," is altered, the bone- crunching violence and occasional torture are left intact.

The editing of language points out how the airing of "Alias" on ABC Family has more to do with the program's being owned by the Walt Disney Co. than appealing to viewers looking for family fare. ABC parent Disney acquired Fox Family from News Corp. last year and renamed it ABC Family with the plan to re-air programs that originally appear on the broadcast network.

Repeating shows on cable shortly after their initial airing is a measure being taken by most of the broadcast networks and TV production studios in order to offset the cost of programming.

Even with the editing of language, ABC programmers may be recognizing that "Alias" may not be the best family viewing option. Starting in June, the show will move from 9 o'clock to 10 o'clock on Friday night.

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