The Entertainers Scandal—the Force That Launches... (Press, 18 March 1987)

The article from 18 March 1987, written by Robin Corry, explores how scandals have often propelled individuals into the limelight, turning them into stars. It begins with the example of Mandy Smith, a 16-year-old model whose high-profile romance with Rolling Stones musician Bill Wyman at the age of 13 shocked the world. This controversy significantly boosted her career, leading to lucrative modelling contracts and substantial earnings, including a $1.4 million deal with Brutus jeans, as well as expensive personal purchases like a house and a car. Corry goes on to highlight other celebrities who have benefitted from scandalous associations. Brooke Shields, who found fame at a young age after playing a child prostitute in the film "Pretty Baby," saw her career flourish despite—or perhaps because of—media controversies surrounding her. Shields' provocative Calvin Klein advertisements stirred outrage but resulted in increased jeans sales and skyrocketing income from her film roles. Victoria Principal's career was also marked by scandal, as her association with older men while still in high school brought her notoriety. Her relationship with financier Bernie Cornfeld resulted in a lavish lifestyle and eventual court drama. Despite the tumultuous experiences, Principal reflected positively on her journey, emphasizing a sense of empowerment through her choices. Koo Stark, whose roles in soft-porn films ultimately ended her romance with Prince Andrew, expressed regret for her early career decisions. Despite this, she acknowledged that her fame facilitated her royal connection, highlighting the complexities of public perceptions shaped by scandal. Donna Summer's story illustrates a different angle, as she initially abandoned her aspirations for domestic life but had a transformative moment that led her back to music and, subsequently, her rise to stardom. Mandy Rice-Davies is another multi-faceted personality whose fame burgeoned following her involvement in the Profumo affair in the 1960s. While the scandal involved allegations of immorality, Rice-Davies successfully reinvented herself as a respected actress and author with a thriving career. The article concludes by noting that scandal, while often damaging, can also create pathways to success. It references the post-political career of Richard Nixon, who, despite a major scandal, managed to reinvent himself as a respected elder statesman. The piece suggests that media portrayal plays a significant role in this dynamic, transforming scandalous figures into compelling personalities deserving of attention and admiration. New York psychiatrist Robert Anstein notes that media-driven narratives often highlight the positive traits of those who experience scandal, ultimately crafting a fascinating story that captivates the public.

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