Should celebrities be good role models?
With celebrities spending so much time in the public eye, some people believe that they should set a good example to their fans.
Celebrity culture is a massive part of modern life. We hear so much about what celebrities are doing that they are often admired just as much for their lifestyles as for their talent. People look up to celebrities as role models. Stars like Taylor Swift have millions of fans all over the world, but some people think that celebrities like her aren’t taking their responsibilities seriously. Swift has attracted criticism for her latest music video because she uses it as a chance to comment on a personal disagreement she has with another musician. In fact, a lot of her songs are about revenge, and some people don’t think this is a good example to set her young fans. As someone in the public eye, is it important that she is a good role model?
Yes – they owe it to their fans
Successful musicians and actors aren’t only influential because they’re famous; young people like and trust them, too. People may look to celebrities for guidance on how to behave. Stars like Emma Watson, who played Hermione in the Harry Potter films, has used her fame to spread positive messages. In a famous speech at the UN, Watson drew attention to the important issue of gender equality. In 2009, Michelle Obama, wife of former US president, Barack Obama, visited a girls’ school in west London. Pupils were inspired by her speech on the importance of education, and they went on to achieve top exam results, showing that stars can make a positive impacts as role models.
No – it’s not their job to set a good example
It’s almost impossible to be a successful actor or musician without also being famous. However, just because someone is talented enough for their work to be enjoyed by millions, it doesn’t mean that the way they live their life should be imitated – or even admired. Being famous doesn’t make someone nice, or good, and it’s certainly no reason for someone to become a role model. Stars like Justin Bieber are often in the news for misbehaving – he’s even been banned from China for his behaviour. It’s not a celebrity’s job to act as a role model for children – young people should be able to look up to their parents, carers or teachers for guidance on how to behave.