Take Three usually contains my commentary on entertainment stories and headlines. However, the media has been consumed by predator-style coverage of Tiger Woods and his adulterous behavior. Woods never questioned being photographed wearing his Nike hats or carrying any of his endorsed products. However, he’s asking the media to give him privacy during this difficult period in his life. Media attention and being in the media attention can be glaring … and, oftentimes, the media magnifies minute problems, but is magnification occurring now?
My opinion is that adultery is usually a result of a greater problem … a symptom, not a cause. Tiger’s celebrity status does not shield him from making mistakes or being human. It does not provide a “cover” for errors in judgment. People don’t question whether or not Woods is human. They should accept that he is going to make mistakes – both large and small. Stars should receive the same rights to privacy that non-celebrities receive.
Woods’ apology, posted on his Web site, makes clear that he believes his personal difficulties should be kept private. The public does not have a right to interfere. They may be judgmental and have their own opinions, but their thoughts won’t influence or impact Woods. For we are bystander, watching from a distance. My hope is that Woods and his family are able to work through their issues, but the media spotlight and coverage will make the healing process more difficult.
Celebrity status – and all of the benefits that come with it – is not something that can be turned on and off. For most, no matter how great the ride, there are always cracks that appear in their image of perfection. I, for one, do not believe the media should pry and expose the foibles of celebrities, but I also believe that you reap what you sow.
