I found myself in a debate recently that brings back the phrase “love the art, hate the artist.” I won’t say who this was in regards to, and honestly there’s centuries worth of examples, but I think about the divides this has brought on in modern years.

We have those that will throw everything about a person’s legacy away, over revelations often backed with proof that said artists may double down on.

Others who will do exactly as the quote implies, often backed by professionals who’ve had a stake in one’s specific art.

And the third group, those who dismiss an artist’s hurtful behaviors because “they’re funny,” “they (still) make good (product),” or “their (media) is/are my childhood.” *

It’s telling when you see what people will dare to defend. More so when they feel an artist can’t be judged for beliefs and actions that have ties to horrible crimes and self-harm/”opting-out.” It would be one thing if the artist(s) made it a point to be better than their beliefs, and be sincere about change.

If they don’t, naturally they won’t be short of supporters. Those of them we may call friends, family, lovers, etc., they can risk earning the same, or greater level of judgment.

Choose your side wisely. Who and what you lose in that choice may not be worth it.

D.F.

*Forgive me if there’s a fourth I’m not considering, outside of anyone that are apathetic about celebrity news as a whole.