Pete Townshend: Kiddie Porn Charge Won't Keep Me From Super Bowl

Guitar god discusses parents groups' objections to his playing halftime show due to 2003 arrest

Pete Townshend wants parents to know the kids are alright.

At a press conference today, The Who's legendary guitarist addressed parents groups who believe his role in a 2003 child-pornography sting should automatically disqualify him from performing during this Sunday's Super Bowl halftime show.

"It's an issue that's difficult to deal with in sound bites," said the 64-year-old Townshend.

But with the growing politicization of the Big Game, some people insisted on making it a big deal.

Townshend and frontman Roger Daltrey, the two surviving original members of The Who, appeareed at the Fort Lauderdale Convention Center for an acoustic set and to answer questions in advance of Super Bowl XLIV.

After working through "Behind Blue Eyes" and "Pinball Wizard," Townshend was asked about his controversial 2003 arrest for accessing a child porn site. Although U.K. authorities determined he did not download any illegal images and he was only given a caution, child-welfare advocates in Florida pressed their objections with the NFL. But the league stood by its choice of entertainment.

Townshend, who has a history of campaigning on behalf of various children's charities, expressed solidarity with his critics.

 "I kind of feel like we are on the same side. For a family that has suffered the issue of childhood abuse, or anything of that sort, vigilance is the right start, not vigilantism," he said.

Speaking of sides, Daltrey revealed he'll be cheering for the New Orleans Saints, prompting Townshend to get behind the Colts. The duo then proceeded to close out the presser with "Won't Get Fooled Again."