Rihanna: Love Gone Wrong

By now, most everyone has heard or read about the alleged abuse of Rihanna by boyfriend Chris Brown.

It all started when both Rihanna and Chris did not show up for their scheduled performances at the Grammy‘s on February 8th. Then the gossip began. Hollywood was shocked to learn about the alleged abuse, but most became hesitant to comment on the situation.

This story has been heavily documented online, on air, and in the tabloids, leaving room for rumors, speculation, and personal opinions from all around the world.

There has been much speculation of what really happened behind closed doors; were Rihanna’s injuries as severe as reported, was Chris Brown’s apology sincere, and what will happen next? And in regards to Chris Brown’s career, is it now over? The back lash was rapid. Almost instantly Chris Brown  was dropped from his endorsement deals with Got Milk, Wrigley’s Gum and as well his music has now been banned from many radio stations across Canada and the United States. Can someone so heavily in the public eye do something like this and recover?

Recently, the always classy TMZ released a photo of Rihanna looking battered and bruised. This brutal image has caused the public to form harsh opinions, resulting in the majority thinking of Chris Brown as a horrible person. Most people, prior fans of Chris Brown, have stopped listening to his music, seeing it as tainted. On the other hand, there are the few who insist they will continue to listen to his songs. They feel that his personal life and musical career are two separate things, and one should not affect the other.

But this is more than just a celebrity scandal. Domestic abuse is an all too common issue that plagues society, no matter where you come from or who you are.

Being in the media, this has brought forth the issue of physical and emotional abuse. Because two people of such high status are involved, the reality of this has really hit hard and concern has been summoned to the surface. It has given us the opportunity to discuss the real issue of domestic abuse, beyond that of Rihanna and Chris Brown.

To help bring awareness and insight into this matter, which is more than just a pop-culture scandal, tune into MuchMusic for an in-depth discussion with teens and panel guests Lauren Collins (Paige from Degrassi), Alana Wyatt (ex-wife of rapper Mos-Def), and RT!, music video director. Reps from Kids Help Phone, YWCA, and the White Ribbon Campaign are also on hand to talk about how their services can help teens in trouble.

Hosted by VJs Sarah Taylor and Devon Soltiendieck, Much gives teens the opportunity to weigh in on the issue at hand, as well as tell their stories and give advice to youth everywhere.

Also lending commentary via webcam is celebrity blogger Perez Hilton, artist Danny Fernandez, Rihanna’s music video director, X, amongst others.

Should TMZ have released the horrific photographic evidence? How will this affect both Chris Brown and Rihanna’s career? What can you do if you find yourself in a similar situation, or know of someone who is?

Highlights from this MuchOriginal special and information on domestic abuse are available at MuchMusic.com.

Words by Melania Fedyna