From the Kardashians to the Royals, celebrity news and gossip sites can feed our insatiable appetite for the glitz and glamour of famous people. But is it good for us? In fact, according to research published in the journal Social and Psychological Personality Science, there are a few reasons why we love to gossip.
Gossip is often thought of as negative and critical talk about someone else, but it can actually be a bonding activity, explains psychology professor David Ludden, who led the study. “Anytime we share information about other people, that’s gossip,” he says. “And it can be a way for people to connect with one another.”
TMZ is often credited with being the first site to break celeb news, thanks to its aggressive reporters and fast-moving writers. The site’s relentless pursuit of celebrity scandals is part of what keeps it popular among readers.
If you’re a fan of snark, there’s no better source than Dlisted, where Michael K writes blisteringly funny and wry commentary about the latest celebrity mishaps. From wardrobe malfunctions to social media flubs, the site covers it all.
For a more traditional take on celebrity gossip, US Weekly is a top choice. Its glitzy photos and first-scoops about stars are sure to please, but it’s particularly well known for its obsession with the Royal Family. For Anglophiles, prince-oglers, and Queen fiends, the site has an entire section dedicated to Buckingham Palace. Its Royal Sightings section is constantly updated with the latest stories, glitzy photos, and first-scoops about Harry, Meghan, Kate, and the rest of the family.