Do you think self-destructive stars shine brighter?

In a less media-intensive culture, the way we view the famous might not matter so much. But with our 24/7 news cycle, the public’s fascination with falling (or fallen) stars has become all the more obvious. And let’s admit it: networks are all about ratings, so if we didn’t watch it, they wouldn’t show it. Over the past few decades, a star system has gradually evolved that’s the opposite of a meritocracy. Call it a “trashocracy.” We offer stars polite applause when they make a great CD or film, but if they want our undivided attention, they’d better do something really crazy - like wear a surgical mask in public or buy up the remains of the Elephant Man...