UPN’s “Moesha” and the WB’s “Felicity” apparently know a thing or two about the birds and the bees.
The two teen-oriented series received top honors at Tuesday night’s inaugural Shine Awards for Sexual Health in Entertainment, sponsored by the Media Project, a North Hollywood-based advocacy group.
Reception, held at the Skirball Cultural Center, awarded TV programs based on outstanding portrayals of family planning, sexuality and reproductive health.
“Moesha” won best comedy episode for the installment “Birth Control,” which featured the title character receiving a lesson in contraception after she decides she’s ready to have sex.
“Birth Control” was produced by Mara Brock Akil. The Big Ticket series is executive produced by Vida Spears and Sara Finney.
“Felicity” won for best drama based on the episode “Gimme an O,” which featured the character seeking birth-control advice, including a demonstration on how to put on a condom.
“That standards let them air that is quite bold in these times,” said Media Project director Kate Langrall Folb. “We’re thrilled they did it.”
Jennifer Levin wrote “Gimme an O.” J.J. Abrams and Matt Reeves executive produce the Imagine/Touchstone drama.
Also at the Shine Awards, the WB entertainment prexy Susanne Daniels, who serves on the board of the National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, was handed the Special Achievement Award.
NBC’s “Sunset Beach” was named best daytime drama; ABC’s “Swing Vote” took best entertainment special; ABC News’ “20/20” segment “Safe Sex and Seniors” won best informational/documentary; Fox’s “Party of Five” won for best series storyline; MTV’s “Loveline” was best talkshow; and BET’s “Teen Summit: STDs … What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You” was top youth program. “This is an opportunity for us to say there are people in Hollywood doing great things,” Folb said. “We’d also like to show others who attend the awards how it’s done.”
