Time and time again, we hear about the latest scandals regarding the Kardashians, Addison Rae, Justin Bieber, and so on. But when these celebrities slip up or say the wrong thing, society has a lot to say about their actions. “Why is she famous?” or “Who gave them a platform?” are common phrases that often get thrown around throughout the media. Isn’t it the same society that gave these influencers a platform to speak out?
Cancel Culture
I’ve written and discussed cancel culture the most throughout 2021 because it is such a prominent force in media. Everything you do matters, especially if you are of high status. Like the Kardashians, for example, if they were to do something as simple as buying a new bikini or hanging out with a new celebrity friend, the media is quick to misconstrued or come up with conspiracy theories and rumors that seem only to bring them down. They often get “canceled” but still seem to make headlines every day. The bottom line is someone always has something to say about their actions, even if it is the bare minimum or the least of our concern.
Influencers speaking on major issues
Influencers such as Tana Mongeau, James Charles, The D’Amelios, and many more have been under fire for not speaking on social issues, especially those regarding race. Not to mention taking trips and having parties despite being in a global pandemic. Dixie D’Amelio, sister of Charli D’Amelio, broke headlines after being accused of weaponizing racism when she recreated a TikTok in response to Trisha Paytas bullying her. The problem with the video is that not only did it offend people of color, but it was extremely toned deaf. She went on to apologize by saying, “I agree, and I will never act like this didn’t happen. Anger in a moment controlled my feelings,” she said. “I completely regret posting it, to begin with, and I can’t take that back. But I can show how I learn and grow from the situation By [sic] being smarter and also holding others accountable, not just those who I am upset with.” Many people took to social media and were vocal about not accepting Dixie’s apology as people believe she’s only sorry she got caught.
James Charles is another example of someone who has constantly been in the news for messaging and engaging in sexual activities with minors. These have just been rumors throughout the years until people began to speak up and expose the true nature of the situation. The Lopez brother, Tony, and Ondreaz were facing a similar situation earlier this year but with a 13-year-old girl. Charles and Mongeau have also been under fire for partying during the pandemic, especially Mongeau. She had little to say on the matter and proceeded to party. Many asked for a statement, but she didn’t seem to apologize to her fans for letting them down or speak on it any further.
Should influencers face repercussions when they do something wrong?
Absolutely. Anyone who does something wrong should receive the proper repercussion, but hey, we’re all human and bound to make mistakes. But there is a difference between making mistakes and repeating a pattern. All the influencers I listed above seem to be doing just that. Influencers should be held accountable for their actions, especially if it becomes a legal matter. We’ve seen this too many times where celebrities and influencers think they are above the law and rules because they have money and status. I believe a big part of it has to do with wanting to make headlines and standing out. This is what celebrities will continue to do because their name is still being mentioned, and their content is still being viewed at the end of the day. It’s all a marketing tactic. Is that to say we give the wrong influencers platforms?
I’ll leave that up for the reader to decide.
Source (s): Greenspan, R. E. (2020, November 24). Fans are accusing Dixie D’Amelio of “weaponizing” racism after she danced to audio of Trisha Paytas using the N-word. Insider. https://www.insider.com/dixie-damelio-renegade-dance-trisha-paytas-backlash-tiktok-2020-11
