ALGERIAN TV BANS REALITY SHOW

Algerian national TV has banned reality talent show STAR ACADEMY because it has become too popular.

The Arab-language programme - which is based on British show FAME ACADEMY and offers contestants the chance to win a recording contract - draws such a huge audience in North Africa and the Middle East, the streets are empty whenever it's broadcast.

Social commentators believe viewers are so taken with Star Academy's voting system, which allows them to keep their favourite competitor in the programme, because it is the closest Algerians have come to a experiencing democracy.

Islamic exponents have branded the programme "un-Islamic" and "a toxic import from the West".

Movement for a Society of Peace leader ABOUDJERRA SOLTANI believes Star Academy is a "provocation against society and attacked its moral values".

Algerians will still be able to enjoy every minute of the show on satellite television.