Israel's 'Beauty and the Geek' Accused of Cruel Conduct by Animal Rights Group

The Let the Animals Live association filed a complaint on Wednesday against the reality TV show "Beauty and the Geek" because it said the most recent episode included a challenge that involved the cruel exploitation of animals.

The task required participants to go into a compartment containing snakes, rodents, lizards and stick insects, pick them up with their hands, put them in a clear container and pass them to their partners, who had to do the same.

One contestant refused to cooperate, claiming it was gratuitous abuse of animals. The group cited several aspects of the assignment that allegedly violated the law.

"We're fed up with the repeated abuse of animals in reality shows," said spokeswoman Eti Altman. "The producers of the show have to learn a lesson, apparently the hard way. We hope the authorities will crack down on them."

The complaint was filed with the Agriculture Ministry official who is responsible for implementing the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Law.

The Agriculture Ministry said the complaint will be investigated. Channel 10, which broadcasts the show, said the assignment "did not involve any animal abuse."