HBO apologizes for, defends controversial ‘Big Love’ episode

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HBO apologized in advance for Sunday’s controversial ‘Big Love’ episode, which has received fire from the Mormon church for featuring a sacred endowment ceremony. “It was not our intention to do anything disrespectful to the church but to whose who may be offended, we offer our sincere apology,” the HBO statement read. The very private rite occurs in an episode titled “Outer Darkness,” in which Barb (Jeanne Tripplehorn) is threatened with losing membership within the church.

“Big Love” creators Mark V. Olsen and Will Scheffer said in a statement that they consulted an adviser “familiar with temple practices and rituals” and “took great pains to depict the ceremony with the dignity and reverence it is due. This approach is entirely evident in the scene portrayed in this episode and certainly reflected in Jeanne Tripplehorn’s beautiful and moving performance as she faces losing the Church she loved so much.”

I’ve yet to see the episode, but check back Monday morning for a full recap.

-- Allyssa Lee

Photo of, clockwise from top left, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Bill Paxton, Chloe Sevigny and Ginnifer Goodwin: Lacey Terrell / HBO