NBC nixes Madonna's contentious cross scene

U.S. network NBC has backed away from a controversial segment of Madonna's upcoming concert special, announcing on Thursday that it would not broadcast the infamous crucifixion scene.

NBC did not give a reason for its decision.

However, the segment in question has angered religious groups worldwide ever since the pop icon's Confessions world tour began in May. Christian and Catholic groups have led the wave of criticism against the concert portion.

During the segment, Madonna performs her song Live to Tell while wearing a crown of thorns and strapped to a massive mirrored cross.

The 48-year-old singer, who has long maintained a reputation for provocation and courting controversy, has defended her routine. She says the segment deals with the theme of confession and that it is not meant to be disrespectful.

Religious groups had been planning a major boycott of NBC and the TV concert's sponsors if the segment aired.

The network plans to use different camera footage of the concert, set to air Nov. 22,and will not show Madonna until she steps down from the cross.