FOX’s hit crime show, Bones, has collaborated with RAINN for its episode airing Monday, February 18. The show’s storyline involves drug-facilitated sexual assault. Fox will also air a PSA encouraging viewers to contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
In the episode, “The Friend in Need,” the death of teenager leads the Bones team to investigate a high-school party involving drugs and alcohol. In their quest to catch the killer, the FBI learns that murder was not the only crime committed that night.
The writer of this Bones episode, Dean Lopata, conducted extensive research for the development of the episode. He worked closely with RAINN to develop an understanding of the aftermath of a sexual assault in order to create an accurate portrayal of the crime.
Discussing his work with RAINN, Lopata stated, “The support and encouragement from RAINN was vital to the writing of this episode. Considering a major segment of the Bones audience fits squarely in the most at-risk group — girls fifteen to nineteen years old — we all felt compelled to tell this story. If one girl who has been sexually assaulted sees the episode and gets help, the episode was worth it.“
Tune to Fox on Monday, February 18, to catch the episode and PSA for the National Sexual Assault Hotline by Bones star Emily Deschanel. The show airs at 8pm (7pm CT).
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, it’s never too late to get help. Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE or visit online.rainn.org to chat with a RAINN staff member, 24/7.
Learn how to help a loved one affected by sexual assault here.
About RAINN
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization and was named one of "America's 100 Best Charities" by Worth magazine. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE and online.rainn.org) in partnership with more than 1,000 local rape crisis centers across the country and operates the DoD Safe Helpline for the Department of Defense. The hotlines have helped more than 1.8 million people since 1994. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help victims and ensure that rapists are brought to justice. For more information about RAINN, please visit rainn.org.