Sunday, August 16, 2015

Paparazzi

I recently read an article where Prince William's son George is being allegedly stalked by paparazzi eager to snap pictures of the two year old.

If this alleged behaviour is actually true I have a few things to say about this. Chiefly: have you people lost your minds? Did you learn nothing from Princess Diana's death?

Frankly, anyone who pursues a two year old boy, or anyone for that matter, in such a manner, deserves to have all their equipment confiscated and banned from ever using a camera again. This behaviour is morally reprehensible and completely unethical.

Put it this way: imagine him playing in a park, being watched by security and a nanny, or his mother and father even, for someone to leap out of the bushes, wave a camera in his face to try and get a candid shot. That would frighten anyone, let alone a little boy. There are far too many threats out there for anyone not growing up in one of the most famous families in the world.

George and his sister Charlotte deserve to have a life away from the spotlight. They deserve to grow up without fear that someone might jump out at them. Give them a chance to have a normal childhood, as their parents wish for them.

It's time we took a good look at ourselves, as consumers of the media. It was said at the time of Princess Diana's death and it's equally relevant here. If we didn't continue to provide a market for these things, then there would be no need for behaviour of this sort.

I don't actively pursue photos of the royal family. While I do occasionally see photos of them (sanctioned by the family) I don't stalk them over the internet. Nor do I do this for any other stars. I don't try to look up their addresses to stalk them or eagerly peruse news sites for any mention of them

Yes, I have twitter and Facebook and I follow some. But I'm rarely on the twitter and only usually read a post of theirs if it sounds interesting.

Just stop. Please. Before someone else gets hurt.

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