‘CSI’ scored as unfriendly to families

Television’s most popular program, “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” is also its least family-friendly, a TV watchdog group said Thursday.

The Parents Television Council criticized the CBS drama for stories about cannibalism, S&M; sex clubs and “snuff” films.

What’s worse is that CBS occasionally reruns the show at the 8 p.m. hour when more children are likely to be watching, said Melissa Caldwell, research director for the 800,000-member organization that monitors sex and violence on TV. The group released its annual list of the best and worst prime-time shows.

The organization saluted CBS’ “Touched by an Angel,” which ended its nine-year run last spring, as television’s best show. It starred Roma Downey and Della Reese as angels.

“Every episode emphasized the power of goodness over evil, the need to strengthen familial relationships, the importance of individual responsibility and an encouragement to maintain faith in God,” the PTC said.

The organization’s 10 best shows: “Touched by an Angel,” CBS; “Doc,” Pax; “Sue Thomas F.B. Eye,” Pax; “7th Heaven,” WB; “Life With Bonnie,” ABC; “Smallville,” WB; “Reba,” WB; “Star Search,” CBS; “George Lopez,” ABC; and “8 Simple Rules ... for Dating My Teenage Daughter,” ABC.