The Society for Professional Journalists created a code of ethics designed to guide accurate, fair and thorough reporting. Journalistic organizations are expected to adhere to these principles of ethics. Celebrity and entertainment news organization TMZ needs to reevaluate its approach to reporting with the SPJ Code of Ethics.
TMZ was one of the first to report the death of singer Liam Payne Oct. 16. The report was called into question as the outlet decided to publish a cropped photo of Payne’s body after his death. The site took down the graphic image, but not before the online backlash. Michael Babcock, executive producer of TMZ Sports, doubled down on the decision to publish the photo.
Babcock said when TMZ received the information about Payne’s death, the police had not yet confirmed it was Payne. The organization decided to publish a photo showing his abdomen and arms where he had recognizable tattoos, confirming his identity. Babcock said the image was removed when the police confirmed Payne’s identity.
“There’s a balance, and that’s obviously a conversation that newsrooms across the world have,” Babcock said. “You want to be sensitive to the family and to the friends and also while working on a news story.”
This is not the first time TMZ’s practices have been questioned.
After Kobe Bryant’s passing in 2020, Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva called out TMZ for reporting on his death before his family was even notified.
“It would be extremely disrespectful to understand that your loved one … perished and you learn about it from TMZ,” Villanueva said.
When it comes to reporting on celebrity deaths, TMZ hides behind breaking news as a way to stray from the SPJ Code of Ethics. One of the four principles of ethical journalism is to minimize harm. SPJ urges journalists to “balance the public’s need for information against potential harm or discomfort,” and to show compassion for those who could be affected by the news coverage.
The photo published of Payne’s dead body challenges this ethical principle as did TMZ’s reporting of Bryant’s death before his family was notified. TMZ is one of the leaders in breaking entertainment and celebrity news, however, this should not come at the expense of grieving family members. TMZ needs to reassess its practices.
Elizabeth Talaga is a sophomore studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnist do not reflect those of The Post. What are your thoughts? Let Elizabeth know by emailing her at et029322@ohio.edu
