Dr. Simone Driessen represented Erasmus University Rotterdam during last Friday’s “De Grote Roddelshow” (“the big gossip show”), held at Arminius in Rotterdam. Dr. Driessen’s contribution to the event was a scientifically responsible overview of all beautiful, sad, or shocking gossip of 2018.
Among the discussed events in entertainment news was the Royal Wedding as a media event, which caused a temporary sense of cohesion among the British people. The on-and-off relationship between Pete Davidson and Ariana Grande was touched upon as well - showing that we have a parasocial relationship with celebrities, and, in that sense, empathy for their romantic life. Another highlight was how superstar Rihanna put a pregnant model on the catwalk and with that, broke the taboo of skinny (white) models walking at fashion shows. Another example was how pop/country singer Taylor Swift openly expressed herself as a Democrat rather than a Republican, which caused quite the fuss among her fans in polarized America.
For more information about Dr. Simone Driessen and her research, please visit her personal page.
