The audience scrutinizes every look and move in star interviews. At the 2013 Grammy Awards, veteran interviewer Ryan Seacrest seemed to gaze at Katy Perry’s clothing, sparking a discussion. Seacrest, always professional, joined Katy Perry, resplendent in her Grammy dress, as she discussed her career and forthcoming projects. Many saw a quick peek at Perry’s clothing, presumably downward. Was it an etiquette mistake, a distraction, or a premeditated act? Some believe Seacrest was appreciating Perry’s dress, while others suspect more sinister motives.

Discussions on social media broke down the moment frame by frame. Some justified Seacrest’s gaze as benign curiosity in Perry’s attire. Others worried about media objectification of women and the need of professionalism, particularly at high-profile events like the Grammy Awards. This event highlights the tricky balance between adulation and respect in celebrity interviews. It’s important to respect interviews and work professionally, even when red carpet outfits are beautiful. Seacrest’s gaze may have had unknown motives, but it starts a discourse about power, gender, and social decorum in entertainment. We might reflect on the narratives and ideals we promote in our media intake as consumers.