LOS ANGELES: Steven Spielberg warned US television networks against promoting gruesome shows in prime-time slots because they could be watched by children.
Speaking to an audience at the International Emmys board of directors meeting in New York Monday, Spielberg urged television stations to be careful what they show, pointing out that he himself is a parent.
"Today we need to be as responsible as we can possibly be, not just thinking of our own children but our friends' and neighbours' children," Spielberg said.
Spielberg, whose own films Schindler's List and Saving Private Ryan were criticised for their bloody violence during television screenings, said he objected to graphic trailers for shows like 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation', singling out ads which showed "blood and people being dissected".
"I'm a parent who is very concerned," he said.
Spielberg added that he believed certain shows, such as hospital drama 'ER' -- which leaves little to the imagination in emergency room scenes -- would not have made it onto television 20 years ago.
The International Emmys are awards for top television programs produced outside of the United States.
