
252: Behind Closed Doors: Unraveling the PR Spin of Celebrity Affairs
08/01/23 • 42 min
1 Listener
Ever wondered how celebrities handle allegations of infidelity and the intricate dance of public perception? This episode might just quench your curiosity. We journey through the scandalous world of celebrity affairs, from the rumored affair of Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater to infamous cases like Tiger Woods, Brad Pitt, and former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer (with an unexpected e connection to a popular social media influencer you may know from TikTok.) Discover how these celebrities, with the help of their PR teams, maneuver through these crises, attempt to salvage their reputations, and sometimes even utilize these incidents for personal gain.
Throughout this episode, we'll also examine the historical context of celebrity affairs as we step back to that monumental and controversial relationship between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. Remember when they met on the set of "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" while Brad was still married to Jennifer Aniston? Based on a controversal interview, Pitt likely would prefer you didn't.
As we wrap up this episode, we leave you with a thought-provoking perspective on the world of celebrity affairs. Unmask the truth behind these scandals, understand the role of power, fame, reputation, and money in relationships, and consider the importance of public apology and atonement. Navigate the messy world of celebrity affairs with us and get a unique insight into the strategies employed to manage public perception. Remember, this episode is not an endorsement of infidelity, but an exploration of its PR spin in the celebrity world.
Want More Behind the Breakdown?
Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.
Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson
Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media
Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting.
Follow & Connect with Molly:
- https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson
- https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson
- https://www.instagram.com/molly.mcpherson/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollymcpherson/
© 2025 The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson
Ever wondered how celebrities handle allegations of infidelity and the intricate dance of public perception? This episode might just quench your curiosity. We journey through the scandalous world of celebrity affairs, from the rumored affair of Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater to infamous cases like Tiger Woods, Brad Pitt, and former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer (with an unexpected e connection to a popular social media influencer you may know from TikTok.) Discover how these celebrities, with the help of their PR teams, maneuver through these crises, attempt to salvage their reputations, and sometimes even utilize these incidents for personal gain.
Throughout this episode, we'll also examine the historical context of celebrity affairs as we step back to that monumental and controversial relationship between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. Remember when they met on the set of "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" while Brad was still married to Jennifer Aniston? Based on a controversal interview, Pitt likely would prefer you didn't.
As we wrap up this episode, we leave you with a thought-provoking perspective on the world of celebrity affairs. Unmask the truth behind these scandals, understand the role of power, fame, reputation, and money in relationships, and consider the importance of public apology and atonement. Navigate the messy world of celebrity affairs with us and get a unique insight into the strategies employed to manage public perception. Remember, this episode is not an endorsement of infidelity, but an exploration of its PR spin in the celebrity world.
Want More Behind the Breakdown?
Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.
Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson
Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media
Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting.
Follow & Connect with Molly:
- https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson
- https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson
- https://www.instagram.com/molly.mcpherson/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollymcpherson/
© 2025 The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson
Previous Episode

251: A Realistic Picture of Disability Rights and Inclusion in Media and Marketing with Kelsey Lindell
Picture this: A quarter of our population and forty percent of American families are affected by disability, yet its representation in media and advertising is a mere 1%. As we navigate the complex world of disability rights and inclusion, we are joined by a special guest who gives us a first-hand perspective. Meet Kelsey Lindell, a physically disabled woman who’s educating a million people about disability rights and ableism, while challenging misconceptions and stereotypes.
Disability isn't just about Paralympic champions. In our enlightening conversation with Kelsey, we dissect the common tendency to portray disabled people as inspiration for the non-disabled, while overlooking the reality of their everyday lives. We examine the commendable paradigm shift in brands like Nike featuring everyday disabled people in their ads, and the potential of disabled micro-influencers in creating a more inclusive narrative. We also delve into the powerful role influencers can play in advocating for disability inclusion and the shocking realities they can bring to light.
Lastly, we focus on the importance of celebrating diversity in all its forms, especially during events like Pride Month, and the role of influencers and brands in making it happen. The journey to inclusion is fraught with challenges, but the first step begins with awareness and understanding. So, join us as we unravel the true meaning of disability inclusion, and challenge ourselves to make a positive difference in the world. Because, as Kelsey says, there’s much more to disability than meets the eye.
Addtional Resources:
- Let Misfit Media help you plan a Disability Pride Plan.
- Crafting Inclusive Social Media Posts: A Guide to Promoting Disability Awareness and Inclusion
Want More Behind the Breakdown?
Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.
Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson
Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media
Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting.
Follow & Connect with Molly:
- https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson
- https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson
- https://www.instagram.com/molly.mcpherson/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollymcpherson/
© 2025 The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson
Next Episode

253: Lizzo's Legal Troubles: Analyzing the PR & Legal Challenges Amidst Harassment Accusations with Emily D. Baker
In the latest episode of the "Indestructible PR Podcast with Molly McPherson," the spotlight is cast on Lizzo. We're exploring the complex layers of her recent legal and reputation troubles. This in-depth analysis delves into allegations against the pop sensation, encompassing claims of coercion, weight-shaming, racial discrimination, and sexual harassment faced by her dancers.
With an expert perspective from internet's renowned legal analyst, Emily D. Baker, the episode dissects the contradiction between these allegations and Lizzo's public image, the nuances of the lawsuit, and the potential ramifications on her brand. The episode also emphasizes the importance of transparency in court proceedings and its role in shaping public perception. This podcast not only informs but equips listeners with tested PR strategies to navigate the tumultuous terrains of crisis management and brand reputation.
Mentioned in this episode:
Emily D. Baker
- "Analyzing Lizzo's PR Crisis Management Response" TikTok @mollybmcpherson
Want More Behind the Breakdown?
Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.
Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson
Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media
Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting.
Follow & Connect with Molly:
- https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson
- https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson
- https://www.instagram.com/molly.mcpherson/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollymcpherson/
© 2025 The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson
The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson - 252: Behind Closed Doors: Unraveling the PR Spin of Celebrity Affairs
Transcript
When it comes to the tangled web of celebrity relationships , people love to follow every twist and turn , but the court of public opinion becomes like a magnifying glass and starts scrutinizing every single move when things go sideways , like in these cases . New Couple Alert
Speaker 1Ariana Grande is dating her wicked co-star , ethan Slater , a
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