The Afghan reality TV series "Koran-Star" has enjoyed great success since debuting, earning an 80 percent audience share, TV officials say.

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Moby Media head Jahid Mohseni said the program on his Tolo TV network initially sprung from controversy regarding "Afghan Idol," but its focus on Koran religious passages made it an immediate hit in Afghanistan, The Sunday Times of London reported.

Mohseni said the sudden growth of television offerings in Afghanistan is due, in part, to a young population and the fact most Afghan families have little to do on an average night.

"TV in Afghanistan is a massive opportunity," he said. "It's a very young population, with 47 percent under 14, and there is no alternative entertainment.

"People can't go out because of security and have nothing to do. Whole families or villages will be watching one set, so shows have to appeal to the entire spectrum."

The Times said the popularity of "Koran-Star" comes as the Afghan Parliament has banned all dancing on television due to a controversial episode of "Idol."