Journalists should do their jobs even when they are fans

Journalists report before the opening of the annual session of the National People's Congress in Beijing, March 5, 2015. [Photo/Agencies]

A reporter from Xinhua News Agency, has aroused hot discussions recently because she released an interview and a reporter's log with famous actor Chen Daoming during the ongoing sessions of the National People's Congress and the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, which were written from the view of a fan instead of a professional journalist. Comments:

Professionals might give a low rating of the reports and suspect her professionalism. The problem is, a fan's psychology is too popular in China, and, even though a journalist, she cannot be immune.

Ma Shaohua, an associate professor at Renmin University of China, March 8

The reporter may well be a fan of the actor, but she used the platform of Xinhua News Agency, which is a professional media organization, to express her adoration of her idol. Maybe her idol's own words can be used as a warning: "A journalist is an uncrowned king, please do not treat yourself as an ordinary fan or audience ... you are otherwise undervaluing yourself." Do not forget your profession.

Ma Ding, a commentator on sina.com, March 7

The two sessions are only open to a limited number of journalists, and those writing such entertainment news are abusing the precious opportunity they have been given. When a journalist gives in to being the fan of an actor during an interview, the product of the meeting will be nothing but rubbish.

China Youth Daily, March 8

When joining the two sessions as a member, it is the duty of the movie star to discuss policies instead of performing. Journalists can interview stars, but please not on this occasion.

cri.cn, March 5