The paps are an important part of the celebrity ecosystem; without their tireless efforts, we wouldn't be able to console our small, insignificant existence by looking at unflattering pictures of people who are richer and/or more genetically blessed than we will ever be. They also give meaning and drama to millions who would otherwise be forced to rely on literature or history to find a narrative that shapes their understanding of the world. But the paps are also scum, for the most part. In this example here we see the mutual dance of loathing, how it begins with a compliment about a recent performance, and just goes waaaay downhill from there.

Then it happened again, here.