Celebrities hold powerful positions in society, but some use it at inappropriate times to push their political agenda.
Freedom of speech remains the mighty protector of all forms of political expression, but celebrities shouldn’t use their prominence to spread political biases.
In addition to Beyoncé’s recent Super Bowl performance, I found other celebrities deliberately push their beliefs to the forefront of the public discussion.
Monday morning, actor Danny DeVito endorsed Sen. Bernie Sanders, D-Vermont, at a rally, leaving many of DeVito’s supporters with a choice to make. They can either follow one of their favorite actors and support his preferred candidate, or they can stick to their own principles and vote their heart.
Celebrities need to be careful with their role-model statuses. They can influence people who might not know the complex nature of politics.
Take the Oscars for example. Before the Academy Awards announced nominees, everyone seemed content with the award show. After the announcement and analysis of the nominees, outrage toward the lack of diversity began.
The Oscars, like many other award shows, rewards actors and actresses for their talent regardless of skin color. But rather than support their fellow members of Hollywood, some decided to boycott the show. The best way for Hollywood to present a message of acceptance and unity is through setting a positive example.
Nothing is more annoying than finding out that your new favorite song is actually meant to spread a political message with which you disagree. When people go to a concert or show, they expect their favorite stars to perform and entertain. They’re trying to relax and not think about serious issues. They’re not paying big bucks to hear a political message.
I’ll return to the infamous Super Bowl performance. I don’t care if you agree with Beyoncé’s message or not. The Super Bowl is neither the time nor the place to spread controversy, violence or disagreement. The Super Bowl should be a family-friendly environment where all nationalities and backgrounds come together to watch football.
Beyoncé’s performance wouldn’t have caused disruption if her half-time show hadn’t focused on a movement that supports anti-police activities. Our police officers deserve support from the public they serve, and they shouldn’t be judged by a few rogue officers.
Politics should stay in the political realm, and entertainers should not use their personal biases to impact their jobs as role models for millions.
Becoming a celebrity means accepting your life under a microscope. Giving up privacy isn’t always fair, but the life of a celebrity calls for more responsibility for the possible repercussions of one’s actions.
Be an entertainer. Be a role model. But if you want to promote a political position, then be a politician.
Charlie Bonacquisti is a 20-year-old mass communication sophomore from Dallas, Texas.