Should We Separate Artists From Their Art?

It’s the dawn of a new day, a changing of times if you will. We’ve seen these scenarios replay over and over again with different players however, seemingly the same game. Something about learning that our favorite athletes, politicians, entertainers and leaders are monsters in real life versus their professional personas triggers us, but why? It’s unfortunate that this has to be said, but the truth is, your perception has to be based on the truth of the individual and NOT how well they entertain or touch your hearts. 

What is it about the allure of power and celebrity that prevents people from having a rational understanding of “who” the actual person is versus the role they play or job they perform? The answer is simple really, we are obsessed with celebrity. We glorify anything and everything these people do from the way they walk, talk, the brand of water they drink and the clothes they wear. Somewhere along the way, the lines are blurred for some who simply cannot believe that their favorite “character” or beloved “leader” is capable of such atrocities. 

Isn’t it interesting though that when you think of most celebrities you are only recalling the characters they play and rarely the individual for themselves? Don’t we all still call Tisha Campbell “Gina” and do y’all even know the real name of the actor who played “Debo” from “Friday”? Yet, when presented with the hard truth of who Bill Cosby was versus his character, Heathcliff Huxtable it was difficult for people to break free of their imaginary love for the scripted characters he played to accept the truth behind the accusations. 

It’s noteworthy to point out that in a world where a vast majority of people seemingly don’t believe in a God, any form of structured religion or playing by the “rules”, still have an inherent desire for people to be of good character. The bottom line is trash is trash and you need to call it out every time regardless as to how important or talented the person may be.