Famous people not leading by example
Obnoxious. Childish. Unthoughtful. These are just some of the words that precisely describe the behavior of some celebrities over the past few weeks. From Kanye West’s rude and unnecessary commentary at the Emmy’s, to Senator Wilson act of shattering civil discourse by exclaiming, “you lie,’’ in the middle of President Obama’s speech, a troubling trend is definitely apparent. Even in tennis, two of the world’s most celebrated players for men and women, Roger Federer and Serena Williams, have openly argued by shouting against calls made by the line judge. So what is causing these celebrities to speak out of turn? To lose self-control? Why are they making fools out of themselves on national television?
When put in such a high status, like artist, senator, or top-notch athlete, some celebrities believe that they can get away with being rude like ‘’normal’’ people can’t. Freedom of speech may be mentioned in our Bill of Rights, but what these celebrities are doing could be considered breaking the morality of civil discourse, something that cannot be compromised under any cost no matter what the situation is. I mean think about it, Kanye just snatched the microphone from Taylor Swift as she was receiving an award that must have been very dear to her. And not only that, but blatantly said, “ Beyonce had one of the best videos of the year, I’m just saying.’’ That must have been demoralizing and embarrassing for Taylor Swift. Or Senator Wilson screaming at Obama,‘’You lied,’’ right in the middle of the president’s speech for everyone to hear was just plain disrespectful and inexcusable.
No matter what status one is put in, we are all equal in the eyes of the constitution. Instead of leading by example, important and famous figures in our society at times have taken the mantle they’ve received and abused it. Serena Williams and Roger Federer both had no right to argue their calls with shouting and complaining with disrespect, especially on national television, no matter how much they disagreed with the judge. It is the responsibility of people with such high a status to avoid tirades like these, especially as professionals. You have to carry yourself as a professional, and that is supposed to be in a manner where you are composed and don’t falter under pressure, especially when the whole world is looking at you. Celebrities have to start believing that speaking out of turn is completely unacceptable behavior no matter who you are, especially since so many people watch and emulate these famous figures in our society. So Kanye, Serena, Roger, and Senator Wilson, please remember the teenager who aspires to be just like you when you abuse your rights and speak out of turn again.
