Why do we grieve the death of celebrities?

Recently there have been multiple celebrity deaths. Television, radio and the magazine stands at the grocery store are filled with stories and pictures of Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett, Billy Mays, Ed McMahon, David Carradine and Steve McNair. These celebrities, while we do not know them personally, have become our friends. In some ways we know these people intimately. Many people grew up to Michael Jackson’s music and videos and watching Farrah in “Charlie’s Angels” and David in “Kung Fu.” Ed McMahon could come knocking at your front door with a million dollar check anytime and tucked you into bed with The Tonight Show. These celebrities have been in our lives and in our homes for decades.

When death is unexpected, as with Jackson’s death, there is a public outpouring of grief. The same thing happened when John Lennon died. And Jackson was young. We’re not supposed to die at 50.

Everyone’s grief reaction is unique. Some may be able to quickly acknowledge the death and move on while others attend vigils and grieve in the community with fans. There is no right or wrong grief reaction. We all grieve in our own way.

If you find comfort being with others who are outwardly grieving these deaths, be with them. Give yourself permission to grieve. Cry. If surrounding yourself with their music or work is comforting, do that. If the constant reminders via the media are taking a toll, turn them off. Do what works for you and be kind to yourself.