In a world where we idolise superstars, rockstars and athletes, we've effectively cast them upon a pedestal. Envious of their accomplishments, of their clothes, wealth or lifestyle, we try to imitate them either consciously or subconsciously. An example of this could be your everyday magazine such as GQ or something more casual such as Womans Weekly. They give diet advice and fashion advice; basically meeting consumer demands who strive to liken themselves to these celebrities.
Essentially, these people themselves have become brands and products. However, it is interesting to see how some of these products will develop and in some cases breakdown. Let's take a look at Floyd Mayweather Jr.
One of the world's greatest boxers sporting a record of 41 wins and 0 losses, he had established himself as a great commodity. Sponsorships, endorsements and advertisements filled his fortune, with two Fortune 500 businesses such as AT & T and Reebok supporting the superstar.
However, his recent video which used an free streaming service called UStream caused irreparable damage to his name, reputation and brand. Launching a tirade of racist and discriminatory epithets towards a rival, it seems he had forgotten his role as essentially a spokesperson for his sponsors.
Action might be taken to try and minimize the damage and reduce footage being circulated, but considering the media channel he used (a video stream open to the public), i doubt so. Also considering the nature of the internet, a full recovery is impossible. The internet is a source of information thats open to everyone. Users have the freedom to access, manipulate and store content. Basically, whats been uploaded once will remain floating in the abyss of electronic data and coding for all time. No matter how much a user may attempt to erase embarrassing photos or videos, someone on the other side of the world most likely had saved them to their hard drive.
It'd be interesting to see which companies would be brave enough support him. Tiger Woods was involved in a lengthy ordeal due to his 'sex addiction', yet he remained composed and apologised and remains backed by some of the worlds largest companies i.e. Nike. I don't see how Floyd will be able to recover from his antics. If his management or sponsors are inactive in face of this outrageous ordeal, they would only be condoning his ignorant behaviour.
Sadly, the man continues to draw an audience in boxing. Whether the audience strives to see him battered, bruised and demolished or held high in victory wouldn't concern promoters. An audience equals profit and that seems the be the bottom line case for many.
*WARNING - offensive language*
Pretty racist and definitely not something people should be seeing considering how many endorsements, as you state, he has. Wonder what he was thinking?? Maybe he thought it was an Iron Chef cook-off.. with the signature ingredient being cat and dog LOL.
ReplyDelete