Kaylah Walton
Noting the inherent risks associated with recording strangers in public places in the U.S., concerns about privacy, legality, and ethics have been voiced by the renowned NFL player, Deebo Samuel. As a prominent figure in the National Football League playing for the San Francisco 49ers, Samuel continues to garner attention, often being pursued by individuals seeking pictures without permission.
Samuel took to his social media platforms to address the perils of unauthorized filming of celebrities in public settings.
“I don’t think y’all people know how dangerous it is when y’all record individuals while they are out eating and then share it. Do you believe it is safe to engage in such behavior?” questioned Samuel following a recent incident involving himself.
Consider the well-being and privacy of the individuals you record
“Consider the well-being and privacy of the person you are recording because at any moment someone may unexpectedly confront… you know how unpredictable the world is. Respect people’s privacy,” he emphasized. Instances of celebrities being hounded and tracked wherever they go occur frequently, jeopardizing their families and close ones.
Appropriate Approaches to Engaging with Individuals
Deebo Samuel also outlined suitable ways to approach individuals for photos or compliments: “If needed, kindly request permission, say ‘excuse me’, acknowledge that ‘I see you are eating…’, ‘May I take a photo with you’… something of that nature. Avoid surreptitious recordings as the world is facing numerous challenges. The intentions of people are unknown,” he advised.
Avoid surreptitious recordings as the world is facing numerous challenges. The intentions of people are unknown
Many individuals sided with Samuel on this issue, acknowledging the validity of his statements and the necessity of addressing the lack of consideration some people exhibit, often necessitating heightened security measures.
However, there were dissenting voices as well, asserting that “being in a public setting forfeits your privacy”, “you are in a public space” or “it accompanies celebrity status; regrettably, some accept it while others do not.”
Nevertheless, this subject remains crucial for numerous celebrities due to the recurring tragic incidents associated with this issue.
