In this week’s Everything King, Wendy questions the need for political speeches at the Oscars, or was the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll right to stay silent?
Elvis had the right answer. Maybe today’s entertainers should take a page from the King.
I’m referring to stars using their public platforms for political commentary. How do you feel about that?
I was thinking about it on the heels of the Oscars where there were quite a few statements, comments and jokes about America’s current political scene.
We fully expect it from comedians, in this case host Conan O’Brien and presenter Jimmy Kimmel. I thought their jabs about freedom of the press and Melania’s documentary were funny and timely.
I’d actually find it tone deaf had they ignored current affairs — especially in the middle of a war with Iran.
So, comics aside, what do we want or expect from actors and actresses?
Mostly, I just want a good movie or song.
In 1970, in the shadow of the Vietnam War, Elvis Presley was asked in a news conference if he would now (1970 vs. 1958) refuse to be drafted.
His response then and now was pretty savvy. He replied, “I’d just as soon keep my own personal views about that to myself, because I’m just an entertainer so I’d rather not say.”
The reporter countered, “Do you think other entertainers should keep their views to themselves?”
Elvis: “No. I really can’t even say that.”
His quote came back to me this week as so many entertainers were at The Academy Awards wearing “No ICE” buttons on their lapels or using their acceptance speeches to speak out about war or immigration, or freedom of the press or the U.S president in general.
I guess I’d have to say I like them to speak out when I agree with their stance and less so when I don’t. That’s human nature.
I absolutely will admit I have stopped purchasing products pitched or music made by stars I know for sure are Trumpers or MAGA supporters. That’s just my personal choice.
There are so many artists who I really wish had kept their mouths shut, so I didn’t know what political party they’re attached to.
Despite having appreciated their talents at one time, I got rid of their books. videos and CDs from my library.
Goodbye Dr. Phil McGraw, Dr. Mehmet Oz and Lee Greenwood, to name just three.
Of course, they all have a right to align with whom they choose, but I also have the right to not give them any more of my money or attention.
Celebrities have the freedom to share their opinions, but I’m not sure the Oscars stage, which should be about their work, is the place. On that night of over-the-top glamour, I’d prefer fantasy over reality.
Maybe, my beef is more about picking their moments. Whether it’s right or wrong, I fully admit that knowing a person supports Donald Trump completely skews my opinion of them. That goes for regular people and even friends.
In my opinion, it’s no longer about political party, it’s now about morality, humanity and decency.
Maybe it’s harder to keep quiet now with the myriad of social platforms on which we can all speak.
Still, if I were a celebrity who needed a wide fanbase, I would hearken back to what Elvis said … or in this case did not say.