What an interesting thought. It brings to mind an intriguing question: Why is it that people who gain recognition for the content and quality of the work that they do become publicly scrutinized for aspects of their lives that have nothing to do with the things for which they are recognized? Does their private life give some credence, or lack thereof, to their work? Does the fact that Michael Jackson is an oddly colored pervert make his music less enjoyable? Does the fact that Hemingway was a drunk make his writings less palatable? In my opinion, the only time a person's personal life should come into play is when that person is being placed in a position where he or she will be expected to make moral or ethical decisions which should reflect the outlook of the majority of those people he or she represents or serves. There are many people who's personal lives I would most likely detest. However, if they present their work to the public in a way that is professional and acceptable then I see no reason for further investigation. Why does the world need to know what the favorite color is of each member of N'sync? Why do I need to know what O.J. is doing now(unless he's moving in next-door to me)? What business is it of mine to probe into the personal lives of someone I wouldn't even know if they weren't on television or in a movie or if they hadn't written a book or played the guitar or whatever it is they do which brings them into the public eye? I think it's stupid to be chasing people away from such professions because of the lack of privacy that follows fame. Possibly some of the greatest entertainers will never be seen because they refuse to deal with the smut-press. Some of the greatest athletes, writers, thinkers, etc. will never be recognized because they choose to remain anonymous, or because some executive doesn't think that their personal life is "marketable". I, for one, don't care about gossip. If I am looking for "Friends" then I'll turn on my T.V., but if I'm looking for friends I'll find someone who can respond to me, someone who will share their thoughts with me, someone whose personal life matters to me because we have a mutual respect and love for each other. Sure, the National Inquirer is good for a laugh when "Bat-boy" is trapped on a roof during the Mississippi river flood, but I don't care who's divorcing who unless it's a friend of mine.


>Perhaps people will read this for the content and the message, rather than the author.
>
> Ellmyruh

Gotta be honest. I read this for the author, but it was because I expected good content.

Shan-I wasn't disappointed-dar