Quote by E.B. (Elwyn Brooks) White
The most puzzling thing about TV is the steady advance of the sponsor across the line that has always separated news from promotion, entertainment from merchandising. The advertiser has assumed the role of originator, and the performer has gradually been eased into the role of peddler.
Summary
This quote highlights the increasing blending of news, entertainment, and advertising on television. It reflects on the shift in the industry where advertisements and sponsors have moved beyond their traditional boundaries, infiltrating and dominating news and entertainment programs. The advertiser, once a supporter, now acts as the creator and determines the content while the performers are relegated to the position of salespeople. The quote suggests that this evolution is perplexing as it blurs the distinction between objective information and commercial influence, leaving audiences to question the authenticity of what they see on their screens.