Modern media sites have made it possible that everyone is a celebrity in some respect. Now, it is easier than ever before to follow someone’s every move without their knowledge. Few are truthfully able to say they are innocent of spending a little too much time on someone else’s profile. It also isn’t uncommon for people to post their whereabouts periodically on social media. Features on apps like Snapchat and Instagram make one’s location accessible to followers and friends.
But the dangers of this social media tracking go further than looking at a classmate’s post from a few years ago. Oftentimes, the overstepping of personal boundaries is overlooked when applied to people with a large public following.
It is popular belief that because someone puts their life in the public eye, they should be subject to constant ridicule and attention. When in fact, they should be able to keep certain things private, if that is their wish. There is a fine line between keeping up with an idol’s events and obsessively stalking them, a territory typically invaded by fangirls and fanboys.
Celebrities didn’t lose their right to privacy when they gained their A-list status.
Fangirls and fanboys are individuals who obsess over an actor, artist or fictional character. It isn’t difficult to believe that one has formed a connection with their idol of choice, especially with the current state of mass media as well as the popular opinion that the public is entitled to know everything about a person prevalent on television or online.
This perceived connection, however, can become warped and toxic. What started as an innocent attraction to their idol can turn into an obsession in which the true reason for liking that person or thing in the first place is lost.
One of the many examples of this includes interactions with vlogger Scotty Sire. As a part of the “Vlog Squad,” which is a group of friends who record themselves and their daily interactions and post them to YouTube, Sire has gained a following which has led to the unfortunate invasion of his privacy.
open for a surprise pic.twitter.com/FeYE8pnEMy
— scottysire (@ImNotScottySire) January 3, 2018
Unless someone explicitly states that it is acceptable for one to visit them at their home or place or work, one should not do so. To go against that is not reinforcing the “appreciation” for that person but instead is violating their requests. Coincidentally running into them in public and acknowledging them is fine, but actively seeking them out when they did not grant permission to is not.
If an individual feels uncomfortable sharing something, like their feelings or place of residence, with people outside of their inner circle, why should it be expected that celebrities do the same? Celebrities didn’t lose their right to privacy when they gained their A-list status.
Knowing an artist’s birthday, blood type or childhood story doesn’t make someone a true fan. But respecting their wishes and caring enough to maintain a healthy distance does.
It should be acknowledged that it is okay to foster an emotional connection with someone that is in the eye of the media. Forming a connection with the work of an artist or celebrity is a natural experience that comes with things like books. But it is still important to maintain boundaries and refrain from crossing the line from fan to stalker.
Knowing an artist’s birthday, blood type or childhood story doesn’t make someone a true fan. But respecting their wishes and caring enough to maintain a healthy distance does.
Photo courtesy of Pexels
