Whitney Houston – When Will The Disrespect Toward Her Stop?

I believe entertainers only responsibility is to entertain. Yet, some media outlets tend to over extend themselves with invading these entertainers privacy and exploit their lives like they owe us so much more. Contrary to what you may think, Whitney Houston didn’t owe us anything. We were blessed she shared with the world her amazing voice and talent. And that’s really, if anything, all she owed us.

Don’t get me wrong, media has the profound right to report information when it is presented. When you become a celebrity, “privacy invasion” comes along with the territory but to what extent?

A woman whom many considered one of the greatest voices of our time died no less than two weeks ago. Within hours of her death, there were speculations and false accusations. Particular media outlets had no regard to the situation at hand, as they reported false information regarding Bobbi Kristina, Aretha Franklin, and Bobby Brown. But one publication has taken it too far.

The National Enquirer is known for its racy stories. They obtained photos of Elvis Presley in his casket. They obtained photos of Michael Jackson on the coroner’s table. And now, in their March 5th edition of their paper, Whitney Houston’s body laying her casket will be plastered on the front page. The Inquirer had no shame. Where does the disrespect toward Whitney Houston stop?

Somehow, I knew this was coming.

This was an opportunist moment for The Enquirer. Although many would not want to see a picture of a person in repose in a casket, if the opportunity was presented, you may look. The Enquirer took that “opportunity” and now is exploiting the heck out of this woman.

Funeral director Caroline Wigham said: “The viewing was done in privacy. It was between a mother, a daughter, two brothers and a family.” Which makes us wonder who took the pictures? Was it a family member, an employee of the funeral home, or a guest? And to what extent did the take Enquirer to obtain them? At whose expense? So many questions, and yet Whitney Houston disrespected amid it all.

The Houston family allowed millions to watch a private home going service of their beloved “Nippy”.

The Houston family realized that Whitney had millions of fans that wanted to pay their respects, and graciously accommodated them, in what they believed would not overstep their privacy.

As I said in the beginning, Whitney Houston was an entertainer. She dedicated most of her life to entertaining the world through her beautiful voice. She didn’t owe us anything more. As media outlets, the least we could do is respect her, especially her body.

Unheard Voices vows to only report accurate, respectful information regarding Whitney Houston. She deserved that much, and I wish other media outlets did the same.

Let this woman rest in peace!