Last week, a momentous event filled headlines and sent much ofthe world into a shocked frenzy. The magnitude of such anunprecedented phenomenon is practically immeasurable.
Responding quickly, news reporters scrambled to acquire thelatest information while throngs of concerned citizens anxiouslyawaited the tale’s next twist.
It’s true: a Hollywood couple has split up. The posterchild of sturdy relationships, Jennifer Lopez, and gambling/alcoholaddict, Ben Affleck, have succumbed to the difficulties of arelationship based on indefinitely long vacations, tandemmovie-making and a $1.2 million engagement ring.
The first absurdity of this story is that it elicits anysurprise. Celebrity relationships are notorious for theirimmaturity, explosiveness and lack of longevity. Thesecharacteristics of high-profile romances are especiallydisheartening when considering the ever-rising divorce rate inAmerica. A truly newsworthy story would spotlight a Hollywoodcouple that lasts until the first anniversary.
Better yet, how about an article celebrating the 50thanniversary of an average suburban couple still passionate for eachother after a lifetime of triumphs and trials?
Alas, mainstream media clamors for the hottest buzz surroundingthe private lives of public individuals. Although we’ve nevermet him, Ben Affleck became our friend because we rented Good WillHunting, and now we demand to be kept abreast of his personal life,including cars, houses and lovers.
One explanation for America’s infatuation with movie starsis the glamour factor. In films, they look so perfect and alwaysfind the right words for a situation. On television, they traversethe red carpet in luxurious attire and behave impeccably. Weenviously desire to become these characters, as evidenced by thepopularity of such programs as MTV’s “Cribs.”Simultaneously, there is a satisfying fascination in hearing oftheir downfalls, which are published weekly by tabloids.
Another possibility is the gossip factor. For whatever reason,discussing the personal affairs of others is exciting. Whether thetarget is a professional basketball player or the girl in yourorganic chemistry section, gossip is a favorite pastime. Thus,athletes, musicians, actors and actresses provide entertainment inadditional forms by unwitting exposure to the public spotlight.
While Ed Board recognizes that individuals are free to adoptwhichever values they choose, we believe there are better rolemodels and more worthwhile uses for your attention than Hollywoodcelebrities.
