Why I Stopped Watching Certain Award Shows
As someone who is not particularly into country music, I have never attended or watched a country awards show. However, I have stopped watching several other award shows such as the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, Golden Globes, Emmys, and Oscars. My decision to stop watching these shows is primarily due to a growing fatigue with celebrities using their acceptance speeches to advertise their political views.
The Entertainment Industry’s Role
The entertainment industry, including the actors and actresses who perform at awards shows, is a sector that is fundamentally focused on providing enjoyment and entertainment to the masses. It spans genres ranging from comedies, dramas, and musicals, catering to a wide audience across various demographics. The industry's core mission is to inspire, entertain, and sometimes even provoke thought, but ultimately, it should remain detached from the day-to-day political discourse of the general public.
The Evolution of Award Show Dynamics
Traditionally, award shows were primarily about celebrating the achievements of actors, directors, and other talents involved in film, television, and other mediums of entertainment. The speeches given during these events were often brief, filled with heartfelt gratitude to colleagues, the audience, and sometimes even family members. These speeches were meant to be awe-inspiring and humbling, reflecting on the journey and hard work that led to their success.
However, in recent years, the dynamics of these award shows have changed, with increasing frequency and intensity in the use of acceptance speeches to express political views. Celebrities, who might initially have been praised for their dedication to causes such as human rights, social justice, or environmental issues, have become platforms for political activism that often alienate segments of their fanbase and the general public.
Why It Matters
While it is understandable and commendable for celebrities to use their positions to advocate for causes they believe in, doing so during acceptance speeches can alienate a significant portion of their fanbase and audience. Many critics argue that these speeches often come off as preachy and appear out of place in the context of celebrating artistic and creative achievements.
The line between entertainment and political activism is often blurry, especially when it is done during a supposed celebration of artistic accomplishment. It can detract from the genuine joy and appreciation experienced when people come together to acknowledge the genius and passion of their favorite actors, directors, and creators.
Reclaiming the Space
Ultimately, the decision to cease watching certain award shows is not about disapproving of political activism or the right to free speech. Rather, it is about reclaiming the space and the spirit of celebration that these events were intended to provide. Award shows should be a place where people can come together to honor and appreciate the hard work and talent of those in the entertainment industry, free from political rhetoric that might not resonate with everyone.
By choosing to focus on entertainment that does not intertwine personal political views, viewers and audiences can engage with the content in a more meaningful and enjoyable way, appreciating the art and talent without the added burden of political disagreement.
In conclusion, while the world is full of political change and activism, it is important to reserve spaces like award shows for what they are meant to be: a celebration of creativity and talent. Celebrations of this nature should not become platforms for political discussions, especially when they overshadow the primary purpose of acknowledging and praising the best of what our industry has to offer.