SNL Not in Trouble for Lady Gaga's Swearing

Lady GaGa has escaped punishment after swearing on live U.S. TV on Saturday - because the cuss was heard during a "safe harbour" period.

The controversial singer came under fire for singing the word "s**t" while performing her hit Paparazzi on comedy sketch show Saturday Night Live, which was heard without censoring on the East Coast.

But TV bosses at the programme and network NBC will not be fined for Gaga's indiscretion - because she belted out the four-letter word during a time in scheduling when mature content is permissible.

According to U.S. TV watchdogs at the Federal Communications Commission, action cannot be taken on indecent or profane speech broadcast between the hours of 10pm and 6am.

Last week, Saturday Night Live producers were criticised after actress Jenny Slate said "f**k" in a skit.