Debunking the Obama-Aniston Divorce Rumor: How a Baseless Tabloid Tale Went Viral

Why do such rumors gain traction? Human fascination with downfall and scandal drives tabloids and clickbait sites to prioritize sensational narratives over accuracy. The motive is profit and engagement, not truth. When prominent media outlets refuse to fact-check or amplify debunked rumors, they fail the public—and can damage reputations irreparably. In this particular case, the story grew legs because it played into preexisting public narratives about presidential marriages, the alleged perils of fame, and the intrigue of Hollywood crossovers, despite being baseless.