There was public outrage when a magazine published semi-nude pictures of Twins singer Gillian Chung Yan-tung at a concert in Malaysia. Chung was very upset and called on publishers to respect her right to privacy. Other showbiz personalities joined the debate and staged a protest in support of the singer.
Although celebrities are public figures, they, too, have feelings, and need privacy.
With the press as it is now, celebrities answering the call of nature could find themselves on the cover of a tabloid.
Being a celebrity does not mean their every act has to be scrutinised.
Not all people seek to become famous through publicity. For example, the man who was verbally abused by Bus Uncle was, for a short time, a celebrity. He was surrounded by the media who bombarded him with questions, scaring away the clients in his real estate agency.
Those who have been unwillingly brought into the limelight need the opportunity to step back and lead a normal life.
Depriving people of their privacy is a cruel and immoral act, which could destroy their lives. The sole objective of tabloids is to make money. So they'll go to any extreme to satisfy their readers and increase circulation figures.
Celebrities, like everyone else, deserve a certain degree of privacy.
Jocelyn Heng, 15
Maryknoll Convent School
Not unless they earn it. In the light of recent events, the public has criticised the mass media for exposing the private lives of celebrities.
Celebrities know exactly what they're in for when they sign their contracts. They should accept public scrutiny because some entertainers rely on media exposure to advance their careers.
There is no free lunch out there; all that glamour and publicity come with a price. Where is the justice in allowing celebrities to enjoy the privileges of fame without shouldering their fair share of responsibility?
Public figures should be responsible for their actions, although some paparazzi will do anything to get their story. Like politicians, pop stars should live up to the expectations of the people who are buying their albums and watching their films. People have a right to know whether celebrities are fulfilling their duties, just like a shareholder has the right to enquire about the company he has invested in.
The entertainment industry has been tarnished by many scandals. Some celebrities have been caught driving drunk and taking drugs; it is the duty of the media to expose such bad behaviour.
Many young people copy their idols, so stars should act as role models and promote positive values.
With the mass media acting as a watchdog, celebrities will be able to live up to everyone's expectations.
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