What's our Nic doing addressing a United States congressional hearing? What's the good of Brangelina - Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie - traipsing through the world's famine-ravaged communities? And, hey, why did Wolverine Hugh Jackman take centre stage at the United Nations to preach about climate change? It's a growing phenomena - stars using their fame to push social issues.
It can seem rather incongruous for rich Hollywood stars imploring us to do more for the planet or to donate more to a cause. Indeed, Nicole Kidman's appearance yesterday on Capitol Hill had many commentators wondering aloud how she was qualified to speak on violence against women.
However, fame and riches shouldn't exclude today's cultural icons from using their talents for the greater good. It sure beats them pushing the latest in cosmetics or consumerism.
And another thing ...
It would be remiss of us not to acknowledge the loss of Don Lane. It was a salute to the Lanky Yank's talent that Australians took him to heart and The Don Lane Show became a national institution. Lane famously defended the clairvoyant Doris Stokes. Now he gets the chance to see what's really on the other side - and no doubt there will be a stage and microphone waiting for him.
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