Michael Sam is a purpose-built controversy machine. It may not be a wise career move per his prospects of NFL success but it is certainly a bold stroke in the fight for LGBT rights. The historic openly gay NFL Draft pick is going to let Oprah do a reality show.
In many ways the world is becoming a better place. More than ever in popular culture people are being embraced for their forthright expressions of sexuality. To put it another way, 5 years ago there probably wouldn't have even been the slightest chance of an openly gay player even getting playing time in college, let alone thrive enough to be drafted by an NFL team.
But there are still plenty of people who have problems with openly gay people anywhere. Some high profile athletes voice their disdain- NO- disgust for the nationally televised footage of Sam celebrating his draft news with a kiss. Their problem was that he kissed his boyfriend Vito Cammisano (via CNN):
"'I'm sorry but that Michael Sam is no bueno for doing that on national TV,' former Super Bowl champion Derrick Ward tweeted.
"'Man U got little kids lookin at the draft. I can't believe ESPN even allowed that to happen...'
"Ward, who played for the New York Giants and the Houston Texans, said he has received death threats against him and his children after the comments.
"Miami Dolphins safety Don Jones also expressed his disapproval, tweeting "horrible" and "OMG" after the kiss was aired. He has since deleted those comments."
That won't be Sam's last on-camera appearance. Now it seems Oprah Winfrey's OWN Network will be filming for a reality show on Michael Sam (via TMZ):
"In fact, we're told Oprah's crew was in the room when Sam learned he had been drafted by the St. Louis Rams ... and clearly knew his big celebratory kiss with his BF would make for great reality television.
"Oprah issued a statement saying, 'We are honored that Michael is trusting us with his private journey in this moment that has not only made history but will shape it forever.'"
What do you think? Do you think all the reality show hoopla will be a distraction for Sam as he goes through training camp?
Tell us your thoughts.
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