Crash

So, apart from more impeachment nonsense, the story that has been dominating the news here is the death of Kobe Bryant in a helicopter crash.  Obviously sad that him, his daughter and some other people died in what was probably a tragic accident.  Obviously he was a great basketball player.  But the way the American media have almost matryed him is shocking.  Let’s not forget, it wasn’t that long ago that he wasn’t a nice guy at all.  He was probably a rapist – not a convicted rapist, I think his case was settled out of court and with a public apology, but whatever happened that night doesn’t reflect well at all on his true character.  So his legacy is complicated, to say the least, but that hasn’t stopped the American media from endless coverage and gushing over his achievements and loss while conveniently ignoring this huge tarnish to his reputation.  It is very odd – but I guess sporting and entertainment icons are the closest Americans have to royalty, so they are mourned as such when they unexpectedly pass away.