Elan Amienyi

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Some have described the 2023 Super Bowl Halftime show, featuring Rihanna, as one of the best halftime shows to date. In my opinion, the show left much to be desired and was far below the expectations of viewers. It is perhaps one of the worst halftime shows that I’ve witnessed.

The show was exceptionally low in entertainment value. Rihanna performed on a levitating platform that resembled a scene from a video game. She did not move very much due to her pregnancy, and her movements did not match the energy level of her backup dancers. While the movement of the backup dancers was high tempo, Rihanna was more or less static, merely swaying from side to side. This created a huge imbalance in the aesthetics of the overall spectacle.

To provide maximum entertainment, previous Super Bowl halftime show headliners have invited other stars to complement them. However, Rihanna chose to perform solo. Performing solo meant there was no wardrobe, or elaborate stage manipulation. The only “change” was when the levitating platforms rose or fell. Thus, the show was rather flat and lacked attention grabbing activities.

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To a wholesome and impressionable person, Rihanna’s show would be considered “not ready for prime time.” It is not surprising then that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) received over 100 complaints that some of the dance moves were “patently offensive and completely inappropriate for children.” Some even commented that her inappropriate movements were not suitable for broadcast!

In sum, it is necessary for future Super Bowl organizers to endeavor to recruit performers who will entertain and keep the attention of the entire audience, old and young. Performers, who will not only present a varied and diverse show, but who will respect the sensibilities of the game’s diverse audience. This will keep future shows from being lackluster.

Elan Amienyi is a sophomore member of The Quill.

Over the past decade, celebrity news has become more widespread. With the rise of TikTok, Instagram, and other social media, more little-known stars and some formerly unknown individuals have become overnight sensations and household names. News stations such as CNN, Fox News, and others are using a lot of their time and resources to update their viewers on the lives of these celebrities.

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While some may say that this is good for younger people looking to achieve their dreams of becoming “stars,” that celebrity news is overtaking traditional news in importance is concerning. A study done by the Pew Research Center shows that 40% of the public believes celebrity news is given too much attention. This is because while celebrity news can be entertaining, amusing, and even somewhat relevant, most of what is distributed is plain gossip.

There are quite a few differences between gossip and actual news. According to the Dictionary, “News is newly received and noteworthy information, especially about recent and important information.” Journalists, whose job is to provide news, use seven elements to determine newsworthiness: “impact, timeliness, proximity, human interest, conflict, bizarreness, and celebrity.” Thus, news events cover various topics and events meant to inform viewers of the ongoings of the world and help them live their daily lives.

Why is a celebrity considered newsworthy? It all began with gossip columns, which were first introduced when the printing press and mass printing came around. During the 18th century, the first actual spread of gossip was seen widely throughout Europe. As demonstrated in the series Bridgerton, gossip within newspapers, magazines, and pamphlets was a common way to update regular individuals on the lives of politicians and other “famous” individuals. Since then, gossip has evolved into what it is today: a way for ordinary people to update themselves on the lives of people they look up to or view as famous.

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Everyone has their own belief about what they think should be on the news. While some say that important political topics, global issues, and updates on America’s status are very newsworthy, others believe that more attention should be placed on information that helps them live their daily lives.

No matter what you think should be covered on the news, it can be universally agreed upon that the news should inform its viewers and educate them on current events. Even though an argument can be made that focusing on celebrities can bring new topics and information to light, it is safe to say that celebrity news should not be the primary focus of mainstream and more prominent news channels.