Well Rated or Well Researched?

Lauren Alexander
la310405@ohio.edu

While many citizens are aware of the general differences between celebrity journalists and real credentialed journalists, the lines today are being constantly blurred which makes it difficult for the public to discern what information is pure sensationalism and what is valuable and well reported news.

Although many people may claim that watching the O’Reilly Factor, The Daily Show or the Colbert Report has no real influence on the way they perceive left and right wing politics, I think there is an increasing suspension of disbelief. It’s not to say that these celebrity journalists aren’t discussing real and imperative issues because they are, but it’s the approach to these issues that has created a problem for credible journalists.

For the sake of ratings, celebrity journalists approach topics in an exaggerated or outlandish fashion, which is meant to entertain instead of inform viewers. When people aren’t supplementing their daily dose of Bill O’Reilly and Jon Stewart they are getting a skewed perspective of not only politics, but of journalism as a whole. By only consuming this type of 'journalism', the public runs the risk of becoming desensitized and even bored with credible journalism that presents all sides in a fair and balanced manner.

Celebrity journalism is not only on late night TV, but has made its way to the sphere of online journalism as well. Take for example Perez Hilton. Hilton has absolutely no credentials as a real journalist, but his celebrity gossip site has become one of the most trafficked on the net. Instead of focusing on getting his facts straight, Hilton’s main priority is to provide his viewers with juicy, entertaining and exaggerated stories (and to out celebrities).

Like I said before, while we assume that most people would be able to draw a clear distinction between Hilton’s website and real quality journalism, it’s becoming apparent that Hilton’s persona and his material are leaking into the realm of credible journalism. Take for example his appearance on the Larry King Show with conservative radio host Dennis Prager:

Although Perez does present some solid, well researched points his credibility should come into play. Where do we draw the line?