The Briefing with Albert Mohler Friday, May 1, 2026
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May 1, 2026 Discussion of a sanitized Michael Jackson biopic and the moral problems of rewriting abusive histories. Debate over whether media should publish an attempted assassin’s manifesto and the government’s role. Conversation about a pastor’s calling when a spouse resists ministry. Concerns about loved ones with diminished faculties at life’s end. Reaction to a Christian university hosting pro-LGBTQ events. Reflection on women teaching men in parachurch contexts.
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Popular Culture Can Sanitize Moral Scandal
- Popular culture can eclipse moral culpability and reshape public memory of figures like Michael Jackson.
- The Michael biopic celebrates Jackson and omits credible abuse allegations, showing music's power to sanitize reputation.
Media Across The Spectrum Criticize Rehab Of Jackson
- Even ideologically different outlets find common ground condemning the film's sanitizing of Jackson's life.
- The New York Times and Wall Street Journal both note the movie flattens scandal and arguably aims to rehabilitate Jackson's reputation.
Music Preserves Affection Despite Scandal
- Music's emotional power explains why audiences still flock to celebrate artists despite serious scandals.
- Mohler contrasts Jackson with figures like Jeffrey Epstein to show how songs preserve affection that other crimes cannot.