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Dark arts in Hollywood - how the powerful publicity smear machine changed


Published on 2025-03-10 20:44:19 - BBC
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  • The Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni feud has shone a light on a part of the entertainment industry that many of those within it would rather remain invisible.

The article "Dark Arts in Hollywood: How the Powerful Publicity Smear Machine Changed" discusses the evolution of Hollywood's publicity tactics, focusing on how the industry has shifted from traditional public relations to more aggressive and often underhanded smear campaigns. It highlights how studios and publicists now use social media, anonymous sources, and sometimes outright lies to control narratives, manage scandals, and tarnish the reputations of individuals who fall out of favor. The piece delves into historical examples like the smear campaign against Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle in the 1920s, and more recent cases involving high-profile figures like Kevin Spacey and Johnny Depp. It also explores the ethical dilemmas faced by publicists, the impact of these tactics on mental health, and the broader implications for truth and justice in the entertainment industry. The article suggests that while these dark arts have always existed, their methods have become more sophisticated and pervasive in the digital age, raising questions about the morality and legality of such practices.

Read the Full BBC Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/entertainment/other/dark-arts-in-hollywood-how-the-powerful-publicity-smear-machine-changed/ar-AA1AE99v ]