Michael vs. Farrah

The morning of June 25, seemed grim. We had just learned that a sex symbol, Farrah Fawcett, was dead. I thought that this would be the news of the day. However, her death was soon overshadowed by Michael Jackson’s. Since, Farrah has taken the backseat, as Michael mania engulfs the world.

I mourn both, although I find it ironic and very true to our culture how quickly our mindsets are  swayed. Michael Jackson, is a music icon and trend setter-this is indisputable. He is also often mocked for his famous crotch grabbing move, cosmetic reconstructions, and child indecency charges. However, the announcement of his death seemed to be the shot heard across the world.

Farrah Fawcett, is famous for her flowing hair, gorgeous body, and strenuous battle with cancer. Farrah has contributed greatly to the Cancer Society and domestic violence charities. She has been on domestic violence panels as well as being a board member of the National Advisory Council for The National Domestic Violence Hot-line. Farrah also participated in a film of her battle with cancer to bring awareness to the illness.

Now if you compare the two, one is a fallen “angel” who has done numerous charity works for several causes and the other is an alleged child molester with Peter Pan Syndrome. I am not completely convicted that he is a pedophile, nor am I disputing his parental skills. I am merely stating that the whole world for years has mocked and have seemed convicted of this man’s offenses. Every move was ridiculed. Yet, when each star dies on the same day, the world chooses to mourn and suddenly idolize the man that they have given the third degree for years. Although, each family has suffered a loss and is in grieving; I can’t help but feel sorry for Fawcett’s family- as their loved one is being put on the back burner having her accomplishments undermined. We do not hear of her accolades rather than Jackson’s music career. I am not saying that one is more important than the other-this is my point in fact. That each in their own right should be remembered for their legacies. I do however, feel it is a little ironic that society can turn the script at a moment’s notice. We hate him, he’s a pedophile, he’s a weirdo-oh, wait we’re sad, our beloved Michael is dead.