Sharper Point: Here’s hoping US, media obsession died with Charles Manson

When I heard that infamous murderer and cult leader Charles Manson died on Sunday, I could only think of one word to describe it.

Good.

When I say that I’m glad that Manson is dead, finally, it’s not just because it’s an end to his life, but also, finally, it might kill off our sick fascination with him.

The man who was once described by Geraldo Rivera as a “charismatic snake charmer” had a hold over America. Everyone knew his name, yet they all despised the thought of him.

What does is say about the American psyche that we have remained fascinated by a guy who is the last person we should ever want in our society?

One reason we kept talking about Manson was our desire to know what made him tick, what made him do the things he did. We wanted to know so we could try to prevent someone else ticking the same way.

We were also drawn in by his followers, who portrayed themselves as hippies despite committing heinous acts of violence.

Instead of pushing back against violence with nonviolence, Manson and his crew completely embraced violence and took it to it most disturbing ends

Of course, the media interviewed him when they had the chance. He got good ratings and people wanted to see what he had to say.

But the media keeping him in the news has had the unfortunate effect of convincing even more people than just the Manson Family to follow this completely evil nut bag.

So now that he’s dead and gone, I say good riddance. Here’s hoping our morbid fascination with him ended as he took his last breath.

Related

AZ Political Podcast: Kris Mayes talks handling of ‘pay-to-play’ probe into governor’s officeAZ Political Podcast: Warren Petersen pitches a ‘non-partisan’ AG’s officeAZ Political Podcast: Andy Biggs’ running mate Sine Kerr outlines plans for ArizonaAZ Political Podcast: Former math teacher Teresa Leyba Ruiz hopes numbers add up in NovemberAZ Political Podcast: Analyst breaks down Arizona’s post-primary general election mapAZ Political Podcast: Could Republican infighting reshape key 2026 primary races in Arizona?