Obsession. Parasocial behavior. Prying.
Fans are often labelled with a derogatory term when they get invested a bit too much into a public figure’s life.
Their favorite celebrity may be getting divorced, experiencing a breakup, depressed, or has health issues, and the fans are suddenly concerned.
But social media is a platform for everyone to voice their actual thoughts. Who is going to judge you if you are behind an avatar or a made-up username? This “mask” allows a lot of people to not only harbor liberated thoughts but also to interfere in other people’s lives.
That’s when the fights begin; that is entertainment for some and inciting for others. The main concerns and issues are sidelined. The public figure, for now, is safe.
But often a lot of fans come together when they see their favorite celebrity in trouble. They comment regularly, showing love and concern for their star and hoping they take the necessary steps required to stay healthy.
The parasocial relationship is sustained by constant messages on all social platforms. The celebrity can post as many behind-the-scenes photos as they want, or vacation photos, or share updates about their life; they are told repeatedly by fans that they need to focus on their health.
The celebrity, troubled by seeing thoughtful comments and prayers sent their way, decides that this is not the reaction they were hoping for. They wanted likes, admiration, and cheers for every single post.
But the fans want them to heal.
That’s when the publicists step in and blame the fans for the celebrity taking a break from social media.
This happens after the celebrity takes great pains to connect with the audience and tries to get them to comment on their every post. Except that the comments must align with their intent to project themselves as the perfect idol.
So…what is the point of calling it scrutiny if it is concern?
We all grew up watching movies, listening to songs, following our favorite public speakers. Some motivated us, some got us through hard times. These celebrities have no idea how many lives they have touched and influenced through their art or communication.
As fans, we want them to continue to inspire us and bring their art and craft and influence into this world. If we see them sick or depressed or not able to concentrate on their work, it does affect those who look up to them.
For their publicists to call fans nosy, interfering people, rather than those who wish well and want the celebrity to heal, is that even fair?
It’s much easier for a publicist to blame the audience for looking too closely than it is to admit that the person in front of the camera needs help. You invited us into the room; you don't get to act offended just because we noticed the house is on fire.
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