Rihanna’s “Man Down” gets blasted
The Parents Television Council is condemning Rihanna’s latest music video, saying it depicts the singer in an “implied rape scene with a man whom she later guns down in an act of premeditated murder.”
The opening scene of the singer’s “Man Down” music video shows her gunning down her alleged rapist in a crowded public space and then leaving the scene.
“Rihanna’s personal story and status as a celebrity superstar provided a golden opportunity for the singer to send an important message to female victims of rape and domestic violence,” said Melissa Henson, director of communications and public education for the Parents Television Council in a news release. “Instead of telling victims they should seek help, Rihanna released a music video that gives retaliation in the form of premeditated murder the imprimatur of acceptability.”