12/13/2009

in

MTV has decided to delete the scene of a cast member on "Jersey Shore" being physically assaulted.

Blakely Slater

It seems like MTV has decided that its show "Jersey Shore" has caused enough controversy.  
  
The network has decided to not air the footage of Nicole "Snooki" Polizza being punched in the face, reports [EW](http://www.accesshollywood.com/mtv-pulls-punch-footage-from-jersey-shore-episode_article_26645). The scene, which was shown in promotions, was set to be in next week's episode.  
  
A spokesperson for MTV explained the deletion in a statement.  
  
"What happened to Snooki was a crime and obviously extremely disturbing," the spokesperson said. "After hearing from our viewers, further consulting from experts on the issue of violence, and seeing how the video footage has been taken out of context to not show the severity of this act or the resulting consequences, MTV has decided to not air Snooki being physically punched in next week's episode. The show will still make it clear what events transpired, including the full aftermath."  
  
Brad Ferro is the man who punched the saucy cast member in the face on August 19, according to [Access Hollywood](http://www.accesshollywood.com/mtv-pulls-punch-footage-from-jersey-shore-episode_article_26645). After the incident, he was found guilty of assault, fined $500 and given a six month suspended jail sentence.  
  
This very serious matter did lead to some good, however. A MTV spokesperson told EW that the cast bonded after the incident.  
  
"Viewers will see how the entire 'Jersey Shore' cast starts building a closer bond with each other," the spokesperson said of the episode, "and especially with Snooki who up until that point, felt that she was somewhat of an outsider."  
  
During this episode, airing at 10 p.m. on Thursday next week, MTV will run a public service announcement about violence.