If You Don’t Hit Your Kids, Just Say So.

 

Globe Magazine ran a story framing Rosie O’Donnell as an abusive mother.  The magazine showed pictures of O’Donald grabbing her son roughly by the arm with the headline, “Abusive Rosie Bullies Son, 12.”  News sources like Globe, if you want to call them that, make their money by publishing usually false stories, paying their lawyers to defend them and most often running retractions for these false stories.

O’Donnell was outraged by this story and rightfully so.  She claims she doesn’t abuse her children.  But, that’s not the point.  What is the point is how she handled this.

Because this story was posted in Globe, it was not necessary for O’Donnell to actually speak out against the story.  What was done, and done well, was having O’Donnell’s publicist speak for her.  Her publicist stated that the claims were absolutely false and questioned how serious of a news source Globe was.

O’Donnell has the support of the bloggers.  Perez Hilton wrote that there was no way this could be true because O’Donnell does so much work for children.  

Clearly the release from the publicist was enough in this case.  However, if these claims were made by a more reputable news source, it would become necessary for more to be said.  Giving examples of the good work that O’Donnell does with children can help to clear her name.  It would also be important that O’Donnell utilize her blog.  Right now there is a video of her son talking about catching a fish.  This is a good touch but it seems very contrived.  What might be more effective would be for O’Donnell to actually talk to the public.

 

The point here is: If you don’t hit your kids, just say so.

 

 

Late Night Host Jay Leno Not So Funny Afterall

from vodpod.com posted with vodpod

 

 

A line was most definitely crossed last Thursday night by Jay Leno.  Ryan Phillippe’s “Tonight Show” appearance was intended to promote his recently released movie “Stop-Loss.”  What Phillippe didn’t intend was having to dodge Leno’s requests that he “make [his] gayest look at the camera.”  Leno went on to say, “Pretend that camera is your gay lover.”  Phillippe refused and seemed completely uncomfortable.

 

Now, at no point is this behavior remotely acceptable.  But in this case, it’s completely reprehensible.  Leno is a seasoned talk show host and should know that what one says carries heavy consequences.  Jokes are great.  Jokes about sexual orientation, not so great.

 

The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation quickly responded condemning Leno and his remarks.  GLAAD applauded Phillippe for refusing to participate in Leno’s requests and condemned Leno for his derogatory remarks.

 

What’s done is done though.  Leno can’t use a just-kidding-defense.  The minute the words left his mouth, he offended a large section of his viewers and society as a whole.  After his homophobic remarks, Leno did the respectable thing and apologized.  An apology is great and necessary.  But sometimes it’s how you apologize, not the actual apology that matters.

 

Leno apologized through a released statement.  This is where he went wrong.  Offending a large section of society deserves more than a statement most likely written by a publicist.  Leno should have apologized on his show.  He offended people through his show, not a written statement.  So, apologize in the same manner.

 

Apologizing through the same medium that is used in making the offensive comment has the following advantages:

1. It shows you care.  If you’re willing to take time out of your show, people are more receptive to the apology and will tend to believe you more.

2. It shows you’re the one apologizing.  A written statement has no defined author.  While a verbal apology is less controlled, this type of apology is more memorable and believable.

3. It shows that the joke is over.

 

The lesson here is two-fold.  First, television personalities must be properly trained to control their jokes.  But, when jokes begin to offend anyone, which they inevitably will, the form of the apology is just as important as the words in the apology.

Grieving “Just Like A Star”

With the recent death of Corinne Bailey Rae’s husband, we are reminded of the proper way for celebrities to grieve.  They’re heightened level of fame doesn’t take away from the fact that they are still humans.  However,  they’re in the public light and the way they handle tragedies reflects who they are and will most likely follow them long after the grieving process ends.

 

To demonstrate how incredible Rae is handling this, it is necessary to look at someone who didn’t even come close.  Now this may be a blast from the past, but it’s still completely relevant.  Remember the death of Anna Nicole Smith’s son, Daniel?  During her mourning process, Smith decided to make a quick business deal with the media.  She sold pictures of her son taken after her baby was born, right before he died.  Not quite the grieving process that leaves a good impression on the public. 

 

Back to Corinne Bailey Rae.  Immediately after the death of her husband, her record company released a statement that Rae was too distraught to talk to the public and needed time to grieve.  Why is this so important?  The media reported the death happened and it’s necessary not to deny it if it’s true.  Also, the statement reminds us that Rae is only human and needs time to grieve on her own.  I like to think the majority of media professionals are decent human beings and can respect a woman’s need to grieve after the death of her husband.  For the most part, Rae was left alone to grieve. 

 

Rae’s representatives issued another statement a week after her husband’s death.  This time, Rae thanked everyone for their support and respect while she grieved.  This is another important step in the celebrity grieving process.  Thanking the public for honoring your requests to privacy and for their support is a necessity.  It shows  that you aren’t avoiding the situation and are appreciative of everything.  It’s important to keep the public updated.  Granted, it’s none of our business that your husband died.  But, if we’re your fans, we want to make sure you’re okay. 

 

Once Rae decides to return to work, I have no doubt that she will have the support of not only the public, but the media as well.

 

How a Celebrity Should Grieve Courtesy of Corinne Bailey Rae

 

1.  Address the media and acknowledge that a tragedy happened.  You can have your representatives do this for you.

2.  Grieve.

3.  Keep us updated.

4.  Take as much time as you need.  We’ll be waiting for your return.

 

 

Image: Getty 

 

 

Crisis Communication: Jessica Sierra Arrested Twice

 

 

It seems that being booted off “American Idol” was only the beginning of Jessica Sierra’s problems.  People reported that former “American Idol” contestant,  Sierra was arrested and charged with aggravated battery in December 2007.  The fallen “Idol” was taken to Hillsborough County Jail in Tampa, Florida where her trespasses continued.  While being booked at the jail, the police found a small amount of cocaine in Sierra’s possession.  To add to her aggravated battery charge, Sierra was also charged with possession and introduction of contraband into an correctional facility.  She was released on $11,500 bail.  Fast forward eight months.  E!Online reports that Sierra was arrested again.  This time she was charged with disorderly intoxication, resisting arrest and violating conditions of her parole.   Before this arrest, Sierra  became a part of the Vh1 show, “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew.”  As a result of the altercation, a judge sentenced Sierra to 12 months probation and random drug screenings.

 

The mainstream media was neither favorable nor unfavorable about Sierra’s legal issues.  They reported the issue neutrally, which is any celebrity’s dream in a situation like this.  Most of the focus is on Sierra’s charges.  In her first run in with the law, the media focused on why she was arrested and once she was in police custody, the additional charges she received.  In her second run in, they simply focused on the charges then reminded the public of her previous charges.

 

The headlines were very much hard news headlines and again, very neutral.  US Magazine  used the headline, “‘American Idol’ finalist Jessica Sierra arrested again” and MSNBC used, “Former ‘Idol’ finalist arrested for battery.”  The headlines were based strictly on fact.  Jessica Sierra was arrested.  There isn’t much debate on that.  A little less neutral are the photos accompanying these stories.  Of the six news stories, each used Sierra’s mug shot.  Also, the only quotes are from the police and police spokespeople.  

 

Jessica Sierra is being portrayed as another troubled star.  The media reports the story strictly on facts.  Jessica was arrested for a certain behavior and received certain charges because of that behavior.

 

The bloggers were a little less kind towards Sierra’s arrests.  They are almost completely unfavorable with emphasis on the actual actions.  They received more information from police reports and affidavits allowing for more detailed information on Sierra’s actions.  Perez Hilton used the headline, “Headline of the Week Weak” while others had strictly fact based headlines.  The photos used for each blog entry were mug shots showing a drunk Sierra.  All of this coverage, portrayed Sierra as a tattooed coke-head. 

 

The coverage is very similar between mainstream media and blogs.  Both report the facts of the crisis.  However, the blogs added more opinion in their posts.  Most of these opinions were given in the form of mini-jabs at the Sierra.  For instance, Perez Hilton  reported the facts and then attacked her appearance.

 

Here’s the problem.  I don’t think Jessica Sierra has a publicist and if she does, she seems to have checked out indefinitely.  Usually in a time of celebrity crisis, there is a quote from the celebrity’s publicist or the media states that the publicist had no comment.  None of the stories have this.  If I were Jessica Sierra’s publicist, a position I don’t wish on my worst enemy, I would do everything differently.  After Sierra’s first arrest, I would have had her speak out about what she had done and apologize immensely.  Society is willing to forgive, maybe even forget, if there is a sincere apology after the fact.  The problem is that Sierra was arrested twice.  After the second arrest, I would speak for her and let the public know that she is entering rehab to fix her known problem with drugs and alcohol.  Sierra is somewhat of a train wreck.  However, she is showing responsibility for her actions by participating in her court ordered rehabilitation.

 

 

Mainstream Sources

http://www.people.com/people/package/americanidol2007/article/0,,20007868_20037238,00.html

http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2007-12-02-sierra_N.htm

http://www.eonline.com/news/article/index.jsp?uuid=2661458e-01e7-4e7f-8c9c-f919feea1ad4

http://www.usmagazine.com/node/13678

http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1575599/20071203/id_0.jhtml

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18385503/

 

Blog Sources

http://www.hollywoodgrind.com/jessica-sierra-faces-11-years-in-jail/

http://www.showbuzz.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/04/29/people_hot_water/main2739264.shtml

http://perezhilton.com/?p=9776

http://www.tmz.com/2007/12/01/idol-castoff-busted-yet-again/ 

The Worst sTori Ever Told

 

 

Actress (and I use that term very loosely), mother, cheater, jewelry designer and now, an author?  Is there anything Tori Spelling can’t do?  This week’s People cover story on Tori Spelling and “all [her] secrets” provides all the juice that nobody asked for.  It’s one thing to write a memoir detailing your life and it’s a completely different thing to become the 90210 rat, gossiping about the hook-ups, scandals and distaste for certain cast members.  Also, it’s completely acceptable to go to the media to clear up any misconceptions or downright falsities.  But, no offense, Tori.  Nobody feels bad that you didn’t inherit the millions you expected or that your life wasn’t perfect or better yet, no one is impressed that you cheated on your husband or alienated your mother.

 

When you’re known for doing anything for publicity, I hope your publicist would advise you that a. writing a book full of gossip and b. getting People to publish an “exclusive excerpt” aren’t exactly positive moves for your “career.”  The seven page story begins with Spelling’s terribly tragic childhood.  She wanted a white Christmas, so her dad had snow transported to the their home for her sledding and snowman building pleasure.  Rough life, really.  Spelling then moves into her “Beverly Hills, 90210″ days where she speaks badly of a former cast member, talks of cheating on her first boyfriend and other unnecessary gossip.  Strike one, Tori.  

 

Now to the men in her life.  She married in 2004, and in 2005, she cheated on her husband with Dean McDermott. Spelling says in the article, “The following day when I woke up next to Dean, I had no regrets.”  Disgusting, really.  I’m not sure the point of all this.  She’s not clearing her name.  In fact, she’s confirming that she is a cheater and almost proud of it.  Strike two, Tori.

 

To continue with the men in her life, her father, Aaron Spelling is up next.  ”Come on, if your father had $500 million, wouldn’t you hope for, oh, just a paltry $10 million?” said Tori.  Seriously?  Your dad died and you’re upset about the $800,000 you got?  It would be one thing if you were under 18 and your dad left you nothing.  But, you’re a grown woman and should be able to support yourself.  Strike three, Tori.

 

You’re out.

 

Tori Spelling: A Case Study of What Not To Say In A Magazine Article

 

1.  Don’t speak ill of your deceased father.  It’s tacky.  You look horrible doing it.

2.  If you did cheat on your husband, don’t brag about it.  The public isn’t as forgiving when you don’t show remorse.  Also, you’re on baby #2.  Good luck explaining this to them.

3.  Don’t bash former castmates.  Chances are they have some dirt on you that may find its way to the media.

 

A Quick Note to Tori:

 

Dear Tori, 

You’re pregnant.  I understand that you’re trying to separate yourself from all the other pregnant mothers who grace the cover of People.  But, this is horrible publicity.  Pitch ideas to People that don’t involve you gossiping and flaunting your infidelities.

 

Never a fan,

Sarah 

 

 

 

Photo Credits: People Magazine 

Pink Puts Her Man-Hating On Hold

Now what, whatcha think bout that, bout that?

And when I say I’m through, I’m through

Basically I’m through with you

Whatcha’ wanna say?

Had to have it your way, had to play games

Now you’re begging me to stay

Pink’s “There You Go” 

 

The fierce lyrics above from Pink’s 2000 album “Can’t Take Me Home” remind me of the good ol’ days when I truly believed that if Pink got into a fight with Mike Tyson, not only would she win, but part of her ear would not be lying on the mat.  Since when does Pink acknowledge men as human beings?  Don’t get me wrong.  I think they are.  But, scorned women have long been able to count on Pink to write a man-hating-lyric or two.

 

It looks like her man-hating-days are over though.  The weird part about it is that this comes in light of the recent news of her and Carey Hart’s divorce.  It was Pink’s publicist, not Pink, who broke the news to People. There is nothing more pathetic than a woman with verbal diarrhea airing her dirty laundry to the world.  Take the Pam Anderson and Kid Rock divorce.  Anderson began ranting to the media about how awful Kid Rock was, only to make herself look worse.  While a celebrity’s publicist should be the one to briefly share the news, it is still acceptable for the celebrity to do it, as long as it’s done tastefully.

 

A day after releasing the news, Pink wrote a message on her blog somewhat explaining the situation.  Not once did Pink insult her future ex-husband.  In fact, she praised the man, and even alluded to the possibility of reconciliation later.  This is how it should be done.  It’s understandable that not all relationships end with partners vowing to be best friends.  However, the next contestants on the never-ending game show of Celebrity Break Up ought to take a cue from Pink.  I cannot imagine anything negative coming from her publicist’s release or Pink’s subsequent blogging.  Of the current 79 comments to Pink’s message, I have yet to find a negative one.  Even Perez Hilton had positive things to say.

 

Think Pink: A Celebrity’s Step-by-Step Guide to Breaking Up

1.  Address the media.  It doesn’t need to be you who does it.  In fact, your publicist is the preferred spokesperson.

 

2.  In your first statement, be brief.  Spare the world the juicy details.  We may act as if we want to hear it all.  But, trust me, you end up looking like an idiot.

 

3.  Now we know you broke up.  Give us a little bit.  Complimenting and defending your ex is a good touch.  It shows a mutual respect, which, in turn, translates into our respect for you.  Make sure it’s sincere though.  Society and the media will call your bluff.

 

4.  Take some time off, get back to work or completely disappear off the celebrity radar.  Whatever you need to do to deal with this, do it.  Granted, most of us weren’t married to a motocross racer, we still know what it’s like to break up.

 

 

So, here’s to you, Pink.  You passed your public relations test with flying colors.

 

 

Photo by: Dave Meyers 

I Didn’t Get A lot in Class. But, I Know It Don’t Come In A Shot Glass.

All aboard the rehab train.  People is reporting that Kirsten Dunst is entering rehab.  This comes with the partially recent news of Heath Ledger’s accidental overdose.  Like Ledger, Dunst indulges her need for substances.  You can’t rag on someone who is trying to make a change in their life.  However, it is still to be determined if this change is one that she really wants or if this is a publicity stunt meant to earn her some serious coverage.

 

The main problem is where she chose to pursue her rehabilitation, at the very place that Lindsey Lohan got clean and more recently, where Eva Mendes checked in.  It is pretty clear that Cirque Lodge Treatment Center in Utah has a history of success.  One look at Lohan’s recent escapades and it becomes clear how horrible of a decision this was for Dunst. 

 

If, and I cannot emphasize if enough, Dunst does get clean, there will be more work to be done.  She should speak out about her experience.  Taking a cue from Lohan on what not to do, Dunst needs to avoid the party scene.  Also, she needs to get back to work.  Last I checked, she was an actress and they act.  If she could star in a movie that is actually worth something, people might forget about her substance problem.

 

So, while this could be considered a public relations nightmare, I see it as more of an opportunity.  

Here is the game plan:

1.  Go to rehab.

2.  Get clean, for real.

3.  Tell us your clean.

4.  Actually be clean.

5.  Make a movie that people will pay to watch, not wait until it plays on TBS every two hours.

6.  I’m serious about the clean part. 

The Beginning of the End?

 

CNBC reported yesterday that the American Writer’s Guild and the major media companies reached a deal.  A deal that is supposed to become final on Saturday.  If this is true, the Oscars will be held without protesters and without the need for any waivers.  The Oscars, as with most award shows, mean publicity, publicity, publicity.  If a deal is not met, the Oscars will be forced to get a waiver so that they are not picketed and will be reduced to nothing more than a high school talent show.  Entertainment award shows are about more than just the awards given.  Let’s be serious.  It’s about the celebrities who show up.  If no one crosses the picket line, the public relations possibilities are squashed.  If the deal is finalized, this means celebrities will receive the publicity they need for current and future projects (if applicable).  Also, the pitch ideas are endless.  Imagine the pitching that goes on the day after the Oscars.  Every publicist wants the positive to be written about their client.  Winners and losers alike will receive more press than they would if the show were picketed.  Take a look at the 2008 Golden Globes.  It was not quite the event that we have seen in  the past.  Something tells me that if this strike ends and the Oscars do go on as scheduled, we are going to hear more poignant questions than just “Who are you wearing?”