Reply to "Godfather of Domestc Violence"

(This is a repost of a comment left on a blog about celebrity power...)

Danielle, you write: "This is a strange country we live in isn't it? And for many many MANY reasons. One of the crazy aspects of our American culture is how we interpret the private lives, struggles, and criminal behavior of celebrities."

I agree with many of the things that you have to say. For example, I feel that we do sometimes look at celebrities like they are perfect; and most of the time we have never even met them in person! Like you mentioned, celebrities are almost always able to escape the law or get special treatment in many other ways as well. However, just because they are talented in certain aspects, such as in singing or acting, this does not mean that they are not flawed in many other aspects of their lives as well. Although, because all that we usually see is their talent and personalities on television and in the media, we are blinded by this and we tend to forget that just like us, they are also humans, and also make mistakes. However, they are often either not punished at all, or not punished as intensely as others who are not considered to have celebrity status when it comes to breaking the law.

You also write: "Despite [James] Brown's history of violence against women, we continue to reward the accomplishments he made to the music world. I could never doubt the power, soul, and downright badassness of James Brown, but at the same time I cannot doubt that he commited criminally violent acts against women."

You explain how James Brown treated women poorly, but is still looked to as an icon by many. You also go on to explain how this is demeaning and shows that our society does not completely value women. I feel that this makes perfect since and enforces the idea that women are still not where we should be in this society. This also continues to show how the talents of celebrities can often out shine their sometimes poor behavior and character flaws. Our society seems to forget a celebrity's criminal behavior once they come out with a successful new movie or record. And I am stunned at the guy you mentioned who went on to win an Oscar after he was charged with raping a 13-year old girl in 1977, and never even served his sentence after fleeing to France! I agree with your idea that abusing women should have consequences no matter what; no matter how talented you are. I also feel that many of these celebrities who get away with so much are setting a terrible example for the youth in this society. They are violent towards women, but are still admired and awarded, simply because they have talent.

Now don't get me wrong; I do not at all hate or dislike all celebrities. I feel that there are many out there who use their fame and fortune for good causes, which help better our society. However, I also feel that there are far too many celebrities out there who abuse their fame and power in order to escape the law or for other purposes as well.
draft
by Mervyn
4:28:00 PM
Delete
1 – 1 of 1