Picture this

Is a celebrity’s love life any of our business?

April 16, 2009

Nu Magazine - April 16, 2009

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are Idol time.

Families gather round the TV with phones in their hands, ready to call in a vote for their favorite American Idol contestants. It’s a family friendly show — or is it not?

Recently, a scandal with the extraordinary Adam Lambert caused an uproar in the media. Photos of this contestant making out with another man caused upset in the industry.

The question I raise is whether this fuss is over a kiss — or a kiss with another man.

Lambert is one of many celebrities to find himself under scrutiny because of homosexuality. He’s gay. What’s the problem?

Americans are obsessed with celeb commotion, so it in no way surprises me that these pictures have been leaked all over the Internet.

What does spark a question in my mind is why Americans have issues with celebrities being gay — or anyone being gay, for that matter.

In many blogs, I have found writers openly express the thought, prior to this scandal, that Lambert had a chance of winning Idol. Why the doubt now?

He’s only the latest example of harsh and preconceived opinions often associated with expressing one’s individuality.

Americans on the whole are very judgmental. We fear and look down upon what we are not accustomed to seeing around us. Some, not all, feel uncomfortable with gayness — especially the public presentation of it.

I’m not saying the pictures are acceptable. Let’s face it — no one wants to see pictures of anyone making out — pictures of private behavior made public.

What I would like to draw attention to, however, is the focus on Lambert’s same-gender kiss. Again, what’s the problem?

America prides itself on equality and acceptance, but in reality, does not always practice what it preaches. America shows divisions in social groups based on differences. “Outliers” are singled out and negatively looked upon.

There is noticeable discomfort and uneasiness amongst people with obvious differences, even though in theory we’re all “equal.”

There needs to be more emphasis on equality and acceptance. We need to embrace the things that make each of us unique, rather than dwell on our differences.

Have you ever heard Lambert sing? He’s unbelievable.

Carly Skinder, 16, attends Millburn High School and is a member of Nu’s teen board.