Group Puts 'daniel' In Lions' Den

A conservative watchdog group is taking issue with NBC about its up-coming midseason series "The Book of Daniel" for its risque depiction of a fictional Christian community.

The American Family Assn., a longtime critic of irreverent broadcast television shows dating back to 1970s fare like "Charlie's Angels," began urging people on its Web site last week to send e-mails complaining about "Daniel" to NBC Universal chairman Bob Wright.

The Rev. Donald Wildmon, chairman of the AFA, assailed NBC for the protagonist in the series, which he describes as a "drug-addicted Episcopal priest whose wife depends heavily on her midday martinis." Wildmon also criticizes portrayals of homosexual characters on the series as well as its "very unconventional" inclusion of Jesus himself, who is depicted in "Daniel" in conversations imagined by the priest.

Wildmon's letter calls on Wright to inform NBC affiliates that they aren't required to air "Daniel," which stars Aidan Quinn.

"It would be beneficial to all if NBC showed a little more respect for Christians who believe the Bible," the association's missive reads.

None of NBC's affiliates have announced plans to pull "Daniel," though sources indicate some stations have received e-mail complaints about promos for the series.

" 'The Book of Daniel' is a fictional drama about an Episcopalian priest's family and the contemporary issues with which they must grapple. We're confident once audiences view this quality drama themselves, they'll appreciate this thought-provoking examination of one American family," an NBC spokesman said.

"Daniel" begins airing Jan. 6 on NBC.