As the world continues to evolve and change, so does the way news is delivered and consumed. One of the newest forms of media that has taken the world by storm is YouTube channels. In the begiinig, it was mainly used by content creators who were passionate about their niche; however, over time, it has evolved into a platform that caters to celebrity culture. With the rise of YouTube celebrities, there is a new debate emerging. Is it right for crime suspects to profit from their stories?
One of the most controversial instances of this was when YouTube star Austin Jones was arrested for child pornography. After being found guilty and sentenced, Jones still managed to make profit from his misdeeds. He had a YouTube channel with over half a million subscribers where he would post videos of himself singing covers of popular songs, but since the arrest, he started posting videos about his arrest, case, and eventual prison sentence. The public was divided; some felt that it was against the principles of justice to allow a criminal to benefit financially from their disorderly conduct. Others saw it as a better alternative than the traditional “celebrity tell-all book.”
It’s not a new thing for celebrities to profit from their misbehavior. Autobiographies of actors, musicians, and politicians that have a rough past sell incredibly well. A typical example includes actor Robert Downey Jr., who bounced back from drug addiction, arrests, and jail time, to become a world-renowned A-lister. He has spoken openly about his tumultuous past, and it’s been the subject of many documentaries centering on his life. While it is true that profits from telling their story discourage repeat offenses, is it morally and ethically right for a crime suspect to make money off the backs of their victim’s trauma?
Another reason why some people might think that it’s acceptable for crime suspects to profit from their stories is that YouTube channels cater to niche interests, and in many ways, crime stories are as popular as some other niche interests out there. People tune in from all over the world to watch these cases unfold and to form their opinions about them. Even documentaries and news programs focus on criminal cases, and the most successful ones are those that appeal to popular taste.
In conclusion, the question of whether it is right for crime suspects to profit from their stories is one that doesn’t have an easy answer. It is suggestive that content creators look beyond the monetary gain and consider the social impact and consequences of their actions. While some might argue that it is acceptable to make a profit from one’s criminal past, others feel that it is a slap in the face for victims and the justice system as a whole. It’s essential for content creators to strike a balance between the two, especially because the YouTube celebrity culture is constantly evolving.
