ABSTRACT
This chapter examines how producers, writers, actors and directors tackle controversy and the ethical issues involved. Sometimes the controversial subject is simply presented without a clear approach and it becomes the responsibility of the audience to determine if the controversial subject has been handled fairly and ethically. There are, however, a few so-called heat-seeking advertisers who go after controversy, embracing edgy shows because they covet the individuals who watch those shows. Gay subject matter may seem business-as-usual, as most every television sitcom has requisite gay characters, but despite the Supreme Court's ruling that gays have a constitutional right to marry, gay marriage is very controversial to large segments of the population. In one respect, the decision to pull the O. J. Simpson interview and book validates the process, suggesting that the misuse of controversy can be rectified. Vaccinating children for measles and other childhood diseases became a controversial issue in 2015.
