FCC probing 'Our Little Genius' show allegations

[February 24, 2010]  LOS ANGELES (AP) -- The kiddie game show "Our Little Genius" has caught the attention of federal regulators because of allegations it might have been rigged.

The Federal Communications Commission probe was prompted by a complaint received in December from the father of a young whiz slated to compete on the Fox show, which has been shelved.

It features children between the ages of 6 to 12 answering questions to win cash.

The father's name was redacted from the compliant that was obtained by The Associated Press under the Freedom of Information Act. He alleged his child was coached by Mark Burnett Productions employees.

The show was yanked last month by producer Mark Burnett, who said he discovered "an issue" with how some information was relayed to the contestants.

[Associated Press; By DERRIK J. LANG]

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