UE 1991 #4 [8+]

Teenagers like to listen to pop songs and see movies for entertainment. They often take the singers or movie stars as their idols. Teenagers will then pay attention to what their idols do and say, and imitate them. It was said that pop and movie stars are bad models to the teenagers as they often do something bad in their spare time. Is it really the responsibility of the celebrities themselves?

Artistes are people in nature. They have the right to do whatever they want when they are not in working hour. Why do they have to explain those to the public? Yes, they are celebrities, and they have to bear the responsibility of what they have done in front of the camera. However, they can have their own lifestyle because every one should have his own privacy. It is not their fault to have their own private life.

In my opinion, the first thing that we should concern is the code of ethic of the media, especially the reports of the tabloids. In order to have more readers and make more money, the reports often send paparazzi to take the photos of the idols in their spare time. The reports will print the photos on the cover with confusing headings in a large size. If we don’t take a look in the report, we will simply misunderstand it. Some of the reports will also distort the truth to report something that is totally unreal. They simply create some stories. It does not only affect the image of the idol, but also reinforce the public’s prejudices.

It is not just the responsibility of the media, but the teenagers themselves. As we all know, the reporters are always reporting something that are made-up stories, we should distinguish what to be believed. Some idols will create some rumour so as to increase their public appeal. When more and more people are talking on that topic, the product (probably a movie or an album) will probably become the best seller. It may be just a gimmick. The producer will reap the benefits and the cachet of the idol will increase for sure. The parents also have to tell the children that we should not be illustrated.

Can there be any responsibility of the celebrities themselves at all? Yes, of course. Although they have their own life and privacy, they have to be careful when they are in their spare time. Try not to do anything that may affect their public image. Teenagers are impressionable. History has shown us that the influence of the idols’ behaviour towards teenagers can bring both positive and negative changes. Many fans started to swear and spit because their idols did it and they think that it is trendy. On the other hand, when Bruce Lee was popular, all his fans went to train themselves and they all became fitter. Therefore, if the idols do something positive, they are contributing to society in certain extend.

To conclude, it is not just the responsibility of the celebrities themselves. Everyone in society should bear part of the responsibility to tell the teenagers what is true and what is false. Teenagers should also strike a balance between frenzied devote to the idols and the reality.

Comment: Your essay demonstrates objectivity and valuable insights into the matter. Besides, your points are smoothly and effectively developed.