SLICE: My entertainment news aspirations

By: Ofentse Tladi

An imagined day in the life of a journalist navigating the intricacies of the often underestimated field of entertainment journalism.

Importance of News Entertainment.

A year or two from now, I imagine myself navigating the glitzy maze of red-carpet events and exclusive parties, followed by heavily packed interviews featuring A-list actors, directors, influencers, and musicians.

Covering star-studded premiers and reporting on exclusive industry events would remind me of my "why". With my background in screenwriting and film, the entertainment industry is where my voice would feel heard and where my expertise would shine the most.

In this world, I would be constantly capturing the moments that matter, such as Somizi Mhlongo dazzling the crowd with his dance moves or Natasha Thahane sharing her excitement for the debut of a series we are all bound to love.

Most days would be spent doing more serious work such as conducting in-depth interviews and analysing industry trends. In those moments, the vivid memories of my days chasing news and learning everything I can about journalism would resurface. The bustling corridors of the Wits Centre for Journalism and the steady rhythm the drum room that always accompanied our path.

I would remember that first honed my storytelling skills, AFDA, with its vibrant red ambiance and dedicated film students.

These moments would lead me to realise the profound role entertainment journalism has in our society. This beat extends beyond mere gossip or trends, it's about writing captivating narratives and insightful commentary. It is an industry that not only entertains but contributes over R200 million to South Africa's gross domestic product.

Kayla Kahrl and Addison Whitten's article "Underneath the Fluff" published by Pepperdine Graphic Media, an independent news organization, emphasizes this point. Gabby Gonta, an entertainment journalist featured in this article says entertainment news includes "important, real stories that need to be told."

She adds, "There are numerous instances where the entertainment world intersects with major issues, such as sexual assault, as we saw with the powerful MeToo movement, which promoted significant change."

According to Statista, a platform that offers data gathering and visualization, the revenue from the entertainment industry in South Africa is expected to show an annual growth rate of 11.02% by 2027.

Entertainment journalism shapes narratives, influences beliefs, and drives conversations on critical societal issues. As I look forward to navigating this exhilarating path, I am committed to uncovering and sharing stories that matter, ensuring that the voices and experiences within the entertainment world continue to inspire and provoke meaningful change.