In the age of the media, it has become intriguing for celebrities to keep themselves away from the spotlight. Whether public figures should give or not first-hand information to the media, has become a widely celebrated debate among media outlets. Some people opine that the idea of freedom of expression; freedom of the press, should not be exploited, especially when it comes to private lives. Others hold that when one has decided to be a celebrity, then one should be an open book. However, I would support the former. Privacy infringement should also have limits. There is a dire need to understand human nature, obtain consent, and media ethics, before broadcasting a piece of news.
The privacy of a person becomes a subject matter as soon as he starts influencing the public. The mass media keeps his fans updated about him. A public icon becomes an inspiration for hundreds if not thousands and people who idealise him aspire to appreciate their hero. Fortunately, the media delivers them the purpose. It is media that plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion. So, when a public figure is accused of some wrongdoing, the press holds them accountable.
On the other hand, a public figure should not be taken as a superhuman who is not prone to commit mistakes and blunders. So, considering human nature, the media should react sensibly. A mad race to break a piece of news among media channels has become a part of journalism. Sometimes the family; which everyone is sensitive about, of an imminent person comes under the clutches of media propaganda. It may unleash public backlash. In such a situation expecting a plain reaction from the head of the family is unreal.
Therefore, before breaking any family news, the media should master a few basic ethics. Showing constraint and patience should be emphasized by media handles. Media platforms should learn to differentiate between responding and reacting because they play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion. Every piece of news is not meant to be public without consent and proper authentication.
Let’s boil down the discussion. Living as a public icon is not easy. Most of the time they remain under the media coverage. The public is curious to interact with their idols and the media mediate the process. However, it becomes a burden when it comes to personal life at some points. So, there should be some limitations to freedom of the press or at least censorship regulations to keep human dignity intact.