Bono and the Polarizing Face of Celebrity Activism

The Takeaway

Is there a more polarizing contemporary rockstar than Bono? For some, the U2 frontman’s international relief efforts epitomize what can be accomplished when a celebrity harnesses his fame to tackle global problems.
For instance, Bill Clinton said of Bono: “Few people have done more to mobilise a global response to the fight against poverty and disease than Bono. He is one of the most effective, committed advocates I have ever met for debt relief and aid for the poorest nations, and for increased funding to fight Aids and other diseases whose victims are overwhelmingly young and poor. We are all in his debt.”
But for others, Bono’s self-appointed role as the definitive celebrity activist is a narcissistic venture that does as much harm (if not more harm) as good for the people he purports to be helping. Harry Browne falls into this second camp. He is author of “The Frontman,” a new controversial biography of Bono that focuses on his activism.

Kickstart The World’s fundraising drive!

The article you just read is free because dedicated readers and listeners like you chose to support our nonprofit newsroom. Our team works tirelessly to ensure you hear the latest in international, human-centered reporting every weekday. But our work would not be possible without you. We need your help.

Make a gift today to help us raise $67,000  by the end of the year and keep The World going strong. Every gift will get us one step closer to our goal!