Why are they so angry? A bold trend in entertainment, unofficially known as “angertainment,” thrives on stirring up controversy, sparking heated debates, and presenting polarizing opinions by using anger.
“Angertainment” connects with viewers on an emotional level. Shows and podcasts in this genre typically feature hosts and guests who aren’t afraid to tackle controversial topics and share bold, often unconventional opinions, thereby stirring up their audience’s anger.
Here are some examples:
The Joe Rogan Experience
Joe Rogan’s podcast is a perfect example of “angertainment.” He brings on a wide range of guests, from celebrities to politicians to experts, and isn’t shy about diving into everything from conspiracy theories to political debates, often with the intensity of a wrestling press conference.
Tucker Carlson
Tucker Carlson is a king of “angertainment.” On his Twitter show, he frequently stirs controversy by discussing topics like systemic racism against whites and various conspiracy theories. Carlson’s commentary often pushes the boundaries of political discourse, including his claims echoing disproven theories about rigged elections. His departure from Fox News came amid significant legal turmoil, as the network faced lawsuits related to the propagation of false election narratives, some of which Carlson endorsed. In his recent episodes, he controversially claimed that white people are systemically oppressed—a statement widely criticized and debunked by experts as misleading.
Elon Musk
Elon Musk’s Twitter activity is a quintessential example of “angertainment.” His tweets range from doomsaying predictions about civilization’s challenges to endorsements and retweets that veer into right-wing and controversial territories, including those with racist undertones. Musk’s social media influence is profound; his statements can sway stock prices, shape public discourse, and ignite global conversations. This unpredictable mix of dire warnings, political controversy, and anti-media campaigns keeps Musk as a never-ending figure of interest, continuously at the center of media storms.
The Candace Owens Show
Candace Owens has mastered the use of “angertainment” through her platform, leveraging it to spark controversy and capture attention. Her approach is grounded in delivering provocative and often polarizing opinions, particularly about issues affecting the African-American community. Owens’ commentary frequently targets high-profile incidents of police violence against black individuals, where she tends to take positions that align with conservative viewpoints, sometimes appearing to minimize the systemic issues at play. Her controversial takes, such as those on George Floyd, are aimed at challenging mainstream narratives, which she often claims are skewed by liberal media. This strategy not only fuels debates across social and political spectrums but also solidifies her following among those who feel that conservative voices are overshadowed in broader cultural discussions. Her tone and content, while drawing criticism for being tone-deaf or insensitive, successfully keep her audience engaged, making her a significant figure in the landscape of political entertainment.
Tomi Lahren
Tomi Lahren is often regarded as a prime example of “angertainment” due to her commentary that primarily aims to incite strong emotional responses rather than foster informative debate. Known for her divisive rhetoric on various social and political issues, Lahren crafts her segments to tap into the frustrations and anger of her audience.
Donald Trump
Donald Trump has often been labeled as a figure of “angertainment,” particularly notable during his presidency and media appearances. His straightforward, confrontational style breaks the conventional mold of political discourse, making him a subject of intense media coverage and public discussion. Trump’s penchant for controversy, often expressed through bold declarations and unfiltered tweets, fuels both support and criticism. This approach generates a continuous media cycle and deep emotional responses from both sides of the political spectrum. Essentially, Trump’s flair for the dramatic and the divisive not only keeps him in the spotlight but also engages and polarizes audiences, solidifying his role as a master of angertainment.
