“The Onion’s” mock “special report” regarding the future death of Paul McCartney is in many ways very representative of the type of news updates released shortly after the deaths of other important figures. Many similarities can be seen in both “the Onion” video clip as well as a real NBC news broadcast covering the death of pop-legend Michael Jackson. As you can see, both of these “death” scenarios were treated as “breaking news.” In turn, the humor presented in this news report’s celebration of Paul McCartney’s future death, develops the idea of “agenda-setting.” “Agenda-setting” refers to the fact that cultural values ultimately set the agenda of what will be featured in the news. Therefore, the excitement surrounding the eventual death of Paul McCartney, reveals the importance culture places on the deaths of iconic people. Therefore, the real NBC news clip covering the death of Michael Jackson proves to be the perfect example of this idea. Furthermore, the fake news report covering Paul McCartney’s future death also revealed the details that would be covered when he does eventually pass. These details included information as to where the funeral will be held, the responses of fans and the inevitable criticisms that will come about after his death. This prediction, regarding the future news broadcasts covering McCartney’s death, reflects the idea of “gate-keeping.” “Gate-keeping” refers to the fact that the news wishes to reveal only certain aspects of a news story. Furthermore, “gate-keeping” also refers to the fact that news stations have the control that enables them to withhold information from the public if they so choose.
No comments:
Post a Comment