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Jewish Celebrities
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Viewers Weigh In On Photo Of Phelps Smoking
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CBS
"Phelps is just like any other person in the world. It just happens that he's a pop-tart just like the rest of the celebs so his business is everybody else's. He can't get away with the stuff that every people get away with. He's a role model? Yes. Should he be doing what he did? No. Phelps could've been doing this before he won all 8 gold medals or even throughout the whole shebang. Who's to know? The first person with a picture of his misfortunes, it's global now. I feel sorry for the pop-tarts, they have no freewill and can't live in peace. I guess there's a down for the low-lives not having money, but have peace, or you could be rich and have absolutely no peace at all. Good luck Phelps, I feel for ya." - Angie Gesell
"How dare anyone judge anyone else. Let he be without sin cast the first stone. The young man has worked very hard for his accomplishments he is on a break let him be. He is entitled to live his own life as he deems fit. He is not training, he was not out driving, he was at a party. As for role model to young kids people man up and be your own kids role models. The only thing he did wrong is trust the people he was hanging around. The jerk that took this picture must have a sad life to feed off of someone else's fame." -- Lynn from Middle River
"Absolutely not! He is not doing anything that millions of other people do everyday. I think it is a disgrace that the media is making such a big deal out of nothing. If anything we should be making a bigger deal about how the government is allowing the FDA to let these drug companies create all these medicines with more side effects than Home Depot has nails. So I think the media should grow up and stop making mountains out of mole hills and leave the young man alone." -- Ray P.
"Michael Phelps may have gold medals but he is still a very young man who is going to make life mistakes, just like the rest of us. Most of us do not end up on TV or in the paper when we get caught. He has owned up to it and apologized, he now knows how much responsibility comes with fame. Let it go people, stop being so judgmental of others, put that energy into making yourself a better person. If everyone did this then this world would not be such a terrible mess. Michael you are not a horrible person because you made a mistake, just learn from it and let it go." -- Tischa Collins
"While it's definitely not the smartest thing Michael Phelps has done lately, he now realizes that there are consequences for his action. I look at what he did, and how he handled it, in a more positive light than the negative comments from some parents. Parents, how many times have we told our children not to lie and to own up to it when they get caught doing something wrong? None of our children are perfect and Lord knows they will do something, or have done something, that will make what Michael did look like a choir boy. This is not to excuse what he did, because it was wrong, but to show our kids what they should do if you were in a similar situation. I don't think there are many of us out there who at age 23 didn't do things that we wouldn't think of doing as we got older. I remember a young lawyer who admitted doing cocaine as a youth only to become a U.S. Senator then later the president of the United States. We forgave him and I think we should forgive Michael too, as long as he doesn't keep repeating the same mistakes." -- LGE
"I'm sick of people talking about celebrities like they are above everyone else - where parents allow their children to look at them as role models, heroes, etc! PARENTS, Aunts, Uncles, Grandparents should be ROLE MODELS! Yet, too many times I've seen parents, with small children, teenagers or young adults in their cars, flying down the road, flipping off other drivers - or driving like maniacs!!!! Or screaming at sporting matches - yelling obscenities at other parents, coaches and teams. What the heck is wrong with this world????? So what Mike Phelps experimented... People should be more concerned with their own behavior around their own kids than some guy their kids DON'T KNOW!!!! Let's let Mike Phelps be a young man, AND HUMAN! Let him make his own mistakes.... because it is a shame that he is finding out that he can not trust anyone! He lived most of his life - sacrificing - in a pool to achieve his great accomplishment! And NO ONE can take that away from him! HE EARNED IT! Now, he will live the rest of his life fearing that if he tries to be normal, some one will cash in on it! Shame... If he was LEGALLY drinking a beer, we'd all hear something about that too, I'm sure!!!! Because some fool would take a picture & plaster it everywhere! and then to get the guilt trips of "he's a ROLE MODEL".... Whatever! I've got a suggestion - PARENTS! Go do things with your kids! You should be their role models! You are with your kids every day! So focus on supporting them, encouraging them, loving them.... Because the BEST thing out of this entire story is Mike Phelps said "Yeah, that's me".... And if HONESTY isn't something a kid should look up to, then what is?! Because when (not if) your kids screw up, how would you want them to handle it? And just remember - its the adults that put Phelps on a pedestal, not our kids...Parents - put the effort in to become your own kid's ROLE MODEL and HERO!!!!!! Stop leaving it up to celebrities and athletes... Then, YOU won't have anything to COMPLAIN about!!!!!" -- Diana F.
"I was saddened to see this picture. I felt Michael handled his fame with such grace. Using his influence to encourage children. NOW, they see this, what an example. We seem to be the country for excuses, then I'm sorry...till you catch me again. What happened to honor, dignity and grace? They went the same place as consequences for ones actions." -- Linda
"Yes, he is a role model for young kids. But consider this, if the media hadn't plastered his image smoking the bong the kids wouldn't know about it! AND, how many kids would even know what he was doing? Really, he made a mistake, but it's the media telling all of those impressionable children know about it." -- Allison Weaver
"Give me a break! Marijuana should be legalized and none of this would amount to a hill of beans. What do you folks think Americans do out there for leisure? and I'm not just referring to 20-something kids. M.J. is a lot less harmful than cigarettes or alcohol and should be put into perspective. Make it legal and it's no longer an entry drug to the underground. Truly, our Puritan ancestry gets in the way of logic. I'm a 62-year old grandmother, child of the 60s and no longer imbibe, but I know of which I speak." -- Jill Wesstrom "I would like to say that in no way has my opinion of Michael Phelps changed. He is a young man, who has trained most of his life, working hard in, alone, in a pool. No, this does not excuse him, but it shouldn't accuse him either. Young people are prone to error. So what? We all know the kind of home he came from. That speaks volumes about his character. He made a mistake, lost his judgment for a minute. He went with the crowd and thought he was among friends. Hopefully he will learn his lesson, and really figure out who his friends really are. No friend would take a picture of you, knowing who you are, just to sell. As a parent also, I know we constantly have to remind our children of the dangers and problems of submitting to peer pressure. I am confident that this episode, and talking with family and close friends, will help him to understand that it was inappropriate behavior. He will be under enough pressure from everyone else, including himself. Let's give him a chance, and forgive, and move on. What he, and his teammates, did was incredible. Let's remember that. If you are a fan, please support him." --
"Let me start by saying we are all imperfect. Yes, the young man made a mistake. I understand it is a big one because of his position in the public eye. We have all made mistakes throughout life I can not sit here and say I have no regrets. I am a single mother of two and my children and I watched Michael in the Olympics this year he was AMAZING no doubt in that. He made us all proud. He is young and he is going to go through things that doesn't change just because he is famous!!!! I have two children which look up to him, do I like that they watched the news last night and saw this, no! That being said we as parents have to educate our children on the right things and wrong things to do in life and let them know he was wrong. I think it gives a good reality check to all of us especially Michael and I hope we can learn from it. I am just sorry he will have to go through all the public ridicule. What is done is done let the guy live his life!!" – Viewer
"I think it is ridiculous when I hear people say he should be stripped of his medals! Let us not forget how hard this young man trained to be the BEST swimmer EVER! And please correct me if I am wrong but doesn't pot slow you down? Can you imagine how much he would have "blown the numbers out of the water" otherwise? Seriously though, I think Michael made a valid effort in his apology. He is a young man that made a bad choice, we have all been there. Stop crucifying the boy for being human out of the water. The Olympics test for drugs, he was clean during the games…. And if you are worried about him being a role model to your children and this looking bad, then sit down with your children, explain the situation, and maybe you can explain to them that even Michael Phelps isn't above making a bad choice; they too can learn from this! -- Cindie D – Baltimore
"Kids today do NOT need someone who is considered a "super hero" doing this! But then again, after it's reported once, the news does not let it go --- over and over it's repeated and the youth of today will see it over and over. We have such a drug problem in the U.S. and now with Phelps' picture on all the channels – if he is NOT seriously punished what signal is that setting for the youth of today? What would be the uproar if he were asked to return his medals???? Let's get real, we don't need an example for our youth that does ANY sort of drugs! I will not step off my soap box --- but it really makes me sick to think I spent so many hours of my time watching him on TV during the Olympics just cheering. What a waste!" -- Joyce M.
"I find this so insane, that people are really talking about him as though he didn't go out and win all 8 of those medals. At least he is not out smoking crack and robbing banks. Come on a little pot never KILLED or hurt anyone. So, what is the big deal? The only reason we even found out about it is because some loser wanted to make money off the picture deal. That is what is really sad about the whole story!" -- Holly Davis
"Let's be realistic, he is young in a day and age where what he did is very common place. I am not in agreement with his choice but understand people do NOT always make the right choices no matter how talented they may be or who they are. I am more disappointed to hear that this got out to the news. That people would: 1. take the picture 2. Sell the pictures or post it or whatever and 3. that it would be published. This is one more case of my love hate relationship with technology. I love the instant information but the fact that people have cell phone cameras with them at all times and that things can take and send pictures and/or uploaded them in seconds takes away much of our privacy. And please tell me this. WHY do we love to make people look BAD? I do not condone what he did but how sad that he really can trust no one." - Viewer
"He is 23-years-old - if the media would leave him alone - none of this would be a big deal." -- Linda M.
"Michael Phelps has done nothing more than any other 23 year has done or tried. If someone followed me with a camera when I was that age I'd be in trouble. Michael is an athlete that I will probably never see again in my lifetime. What he did was wrong but we can not let it take away from his unbelievable achievements." -- Jeff
"We really need to look at the big picture here. A lot of young people look up to him, and if he just get's a slap on the wrist for his latest actions, then look at the type of message that will be sent out to young people. This needs to be nipped in the bud now. He should be stripped from his medals and penalized stiffly." -- Ms. Monica M. Baker
"Michael Phelps is human…Who Knew! I think people need to get a life. He made a mistake on many levels and I'm sure he'll pay for it. Which one of us hasn't done something we've regretted. I guess most of use are lucky NOT to celebrities." –- Jeanne
"I am trying to give him some slack, however, this was the dumbest thing he could do. He is a role model for many young kids and this will be something that many parents will need to explain to their children when they ask. I understand that he is young but he is not a normal young person. Unfortunately, for the famous they can't make the same stupid mistakes as the rest of us average Joes. This will definitely scar his reputation." -- Viewer
"The photo may not be the most "fan-favorite" right now and Lord knows the media will make sure the photo is seen everywhere and by everyone. How many times have we ALL been in situations that we thanked God there wasn't someone there taking a picture of what we were doing that we knew would shock the people that knew us or looked up to for that matter? Yes...he should have had more sense and I'm sure he's kicking himself right now; but bottom line is, he's human and as humans we make mistakes. As I've always told my kids and I'm sure Debbie Phelps has told her son many times, "For every action there is a re-action and there are consequences to every choice made; if you can live with that, you've made your choice and you have to deal with that". The wrath he'll have to deal with from his mom is more than the media could ever dish out. Here's to live and learn…let's hope Michael does." -- Shelley Barron
"Did he not say that he learned from his first experience? Does he not realize that everyone watches him (and any other famous figure) ALL the time? As a mother of 2 teenage children, I am happy to say that neither one have ever tried drugs and hopefully with my constant talking, they never will. Why should he be any different just because he is famous? SHAME ON YOU MICHAEL!" -- Teresa Kluckowski
"No, my opinion has not changed since leaning of the photo! I think he's still a good guy." – Marvenise Harris
Shirley W.
"I believe the question "Has Your Opinion Of Michael Phelps Changed After This Controversial Photo?" is misleading. It would be better stated "How Has Your Opinion Of Michael Phelps Changed After This Controversial Photo? He's 23, he made a mistake, let's all move on. But what will parents tell their children? That's up to each individual parent." -- Benjamin Steele
"He has just proven that he is no one special!" -- Rita McCubbin
"It is sad that his mother has to explain this to her children at her school." -- James Stump
"It's been reported. Now I'd like to see the media drop it instead of sensationalizing it." -- Joanne Piersall
"I never had a "high" opinion of Phelps. When he was busted for the DUI I knew he would get caught doing something else. Hope he's treated like any other person with a drug/alcohol problem. I think that he's screaming for help. He needs treatment now, before his situation get worst. He's a bomb waiting to explode!!!!!" - Mark Oliver
"The fact of the matter is he is a kid. As kids we all have different experiences - it is called life. It just so happens that he is an amazing swimmer - which is what he gets paid for, right? As parents maybe we shouldn't depend on celebrities or athletes that we don't even know personally to be the role models of our children." -- Laura
"Not only should marijuana have been legalized decades ago (as the oldest medicine on the planet) but at least half the country is on pharmaceuticals. Get over it and cover some real news, -like what the governor will do to rectify blowing $40k on a carpet when Marylanders are losing their butts!" -- Jac
"I do not lose any respect for Michael Phelps because, although what he did was a crime, it is something many people will face in their lifetime. I actually gain some respect because he admits to his mistake without making up excuses. Unfortunately, since he is a world hero, people don't see it that way. People think people like him cannot make mistakes. The good news is, he realized it was a mistake and says he won't do it again." --- Rachel from Baltimore
"Anyone with any common sense knows that people DO NOT get caught the first time they something like this!!! He promised last time not to make this kind of mistake again!!! REMEMBER THE OLD SAYING!!!! "FOOL ME ONCE, SHAME ON U!!!! FOOL ME TWICE, SHAME ON ME!!!!" I lost a lot of respect for him with the DWI. I HAVE NO RESPECT LEFT TO GIVE!!!! If U are in the public eye U CAN NOT KEEP GETTIN' CAUGHT DOING THESE KIND OF THINGS!!! He is destroying the good name he helped give our city and state. Next thing U know he will say 'BUT I DID NOT INHALE!!'" -- Viewer
"So what! The man had a little marijuana. No big deal! Are media outlets that desperate for news stories? There are bigger problems in this world that need more attention than a man smoking a bong! Everyone makes bad judgment calls every now and then. Give him a break!" -- R. Mullar from Finksburg, Md.
"Leave the boy alone. He apologized, He admitted it was wrong. Why does the media constantly have to tear good people down? You know what they say about glass houses and stones." -- Mike Schmidt
"This is 2 strikes against him. I am sure both instances are not the 'first' time. As with others 'they made a mistake' only when they are caught." - Yvonne
"Come on. He made a mistake. How many people are doing drugs right now that just have not been caught. He is young and that does play a part in his behavior. He has not had much freedom to explore life outside of a swimming pool, to be able to fit in with friends and to just be a normal person at 23 years old. Hopefully he will understand that being in the peoples eyes is not always so easy." -- Lynda from Joppa
"I truly hope that he has finally learned a lesson from this latest stupid incident. While I realize that the visibility that he has received is overwhelming at times, he's 23 years old now and needs to THINK before he gets caught up in making anymore bad choices. Does he truly realize how much is at stake here - both from the public to whom he is a role model and to his future? Let's hope so." - Robert
"I find it just ludicrous that so many people are making a huge fuss about this event when we are allowing politicians passes for tax evasion. Too much being made of a youngster who made a mistake and not enough for events that really matter." -- Loretta in Bel Air
"Sorry Michael Phelps decided to do what he did, feel sorry for him, since everyone looks up to him, he does not have a life of his own !!!! We still admire what he did~~~~go Michael." Viewer
"I honestly thought he would have learned his lesson after his DUI. I am really disappointed in him for even allowing something like this to happen. Our children need role models who set good examples. I have a 10 year old son who thinks Michael is the greatest. Now I have to explain what the news is saying about him now. I do feel differently about him and I hope this makes him realize that he is setting examples for our children. He has so much talent and it's a shame that he chooses the path he does." -- Terry from Pasadena
"I am not a big fan of Phelps, but this news is not only unfair but what's the purpose of the media exposing him over and over? How many celebs smoke, drink, commit crimes? It's not a big deal and parents shouldn't be quick to judge him because your children should look up to you as a role model, not Phelps. They can strive to become like him. I don't think it's fair and just leave him alone." -- La-Toya
"I think that there is nothing wrong with people who smoke pot, it is a personal choice and many of those who do smoke pot should not be placed in the same category with those who do other drugs. Marijuana is a controlled substance, and after doing many research papers for my college professors I have only found there to be many benefits of marijuana. The United States is in a recession, there are murderers and pedophiles on the streets and everyone is so worried about Michael Phelps smoking a bong, please tell me what is wrong with that? He is 23 years old and is still a young adult, if he wants to smoke some pot here and there I see nothing wrong with that. The country has more important issues to worry about and maybe if people were a little more concerned with the more important issues and not so worried about someone smoking a little pot, maybe, just maybe the United States could get back on her feet and the world might be a better place." -- Jennifer
"I am very saddened that WJZ is even covering this story. Michael Phelps is one of our own. WJZ should be standing by Phelps and not selling him out. So what, he smoked some pot. I would bet that whoever is covering this story has smoked some pot in their day or yesterday. Whatever, the man is 23-years-old. Give him a break. He did not hurt anyone. In this day and age of anything goes. There are a lot more serious issues at hand. I am more concerned about a corrupt government than what an Olympic athlete does in his spare time. I mean, come on . We have had presidents that have done so much worse at a much older age. Clinton and Obama both smoked pot when they were in their 20s. Clinton could not even keep his pants on long enough to remember he was a married man. That's shameful. Not this. So as far as I see, Phelps is a class act. I admire him always have and always will. I just think he needs to be careful of the company he keeps. Remember Michael someone will always try to destroy what you have worked so hard for. Marijuana should be legal regardless. Alcohol and tobacco should be banned that stuff will kill, pot will just chill you." - Mary
"You know, he's 23 years old and no matter how much he has done with his life, he's still a young man. I am not condoning nor condemning his actions. He does have to learn that being in the spotlight means that all eyes are going to be on him no matter where he is at. For everyone who is saying their kids look up to him and don't want them to anymore are living in a dream world. He had a relapse in judgment, just like most kids out there will. Get over it and start worrying about other things, like how the president is going to let people help run our country and haven't paid taxes, or the job crisis, or our economy. This was a nice break from our reality, but get over it." -- Felicia Plato
"I believe that Michael Phelps is still the same great person that he always was. I do not think it's too big of a deal that he smoked some marijuana. I believe that it should be legal. In this day and age, Phelps is an amazing young man. I think the media is being too hard on him. What kind of friend would smoke with him and then sell the pictures? That person is the one that should be getting all of this negative attention. Keep your head up , Michael. I still think you are one of a kind." -- Mary
"I'm sorry but when you are in the limelight and as famous as he is, you just cannot display that kind of activity. Regardless of his age, you know you will be continuously watched. You would think the DUI was enough to deter him from doing such stupid things, but obviously he has not learned his lesson." -- Kathy Bosley
"Leave Michael alone. The man is only 23 years old and let's face it he has only had a "life" for probably 10-12 of those 23 years, so I would say now is the time for him to grow up and become the person he would want to be. As someone who has had to live a certain way and be surrounded by just a handful of people who had so much control over him I think he needs to be around his peers now and not to be forced into what someone else has plans for him. As far as being a role model, when the ones we look up to have done something we know to be wrong, I think we will treat it AS THAT, let's remember no one is perfect." -- Michael Keiper
"Everyone has things in their closets, When you're 23-years-old, you're still filling that closet, but being in the public Michael needs to live in that bubble. Put it behind him and move on and hope there aren't anymore photos out there!!" -- Bob in Kent Island
"This society is starting to remind me of the Roman Empire. Sports figures - gladiators. Michael Phelps just proved he is still a kid in a big pond. Why do we look up to sports figures any way? Sports figures are held too high, their private lives and so forth. I could care less but thanks for all the drama." -- Mary
"I am obviously saddened by the photo of him, A lot of children look up to him and he needs to remember that when making such bad decisions but it does not take away his glory! He worked hard to get where he is at and I as a Baltimorean am still very proud of his accomplishments, hopefully he will make better choices in the future!"-- Heather
"Yes, my opinion of him has changed. He is not nearly as mature or together as I thought he was. I do realize that with his youth and the notoriety, wanting to party hardy would be a big temptation and could cause a lapse in judgment. However, even if he is young, with all the perks (and I thought he had his head on straight with feet on the ground), he should have had better control of himself, considering his role in the eyes of our young people. I am greatly disappointed in him. The real problem is that all those kids (some quite young) who have been looking to him as a role model, now, see nothing wrong with this behavior. There is something wrong with it." - Debbie Burton
"Sorry but I've never agreed with America's fascination and "hero" complex.... to be honest? This is a typical 22 year old who never had a "normal" childhood.... unless all kids spend 8 to 10 hours a day in a pool - which last time I checked, mine didn't.... he has achieved great things by his own sacrifice and now he wants to be "normal"... he wants to party with his friends. Now Mr. Phelps will have the even tougher life lesson of determining who he can trust for the rest of his life... are people going to befriend him because of his fame, his fortune and then profit from their phony friendship? Probably. So, not only does he have an unusual childhood, but the rest of his life will NEVER be normal. My advice? Mike! Build yourself a dark room, with lava lamps, Dude! No cameras allowed, no videos..(if they have one hidden? it won't film in the dark!). As for the parents and groups that claim their children look to Mike Phelps as their "HERO" ? My advice? Why aren't your children's heroes YOU - the PARENTS ???????? Ever ask that one? You know, great family values, playing some hoops with the kids in the driveway or parking lot? How about taking 'em fishing or bike riding? Or JUST TALKING TO YOUR KIDS?!!! That would be MY HERO.... the people/person I love the most...Because "greatness" doesn't always mean setting records... or one accomplishment... Greatness, true HEROES, are people who do what they do day in and day out. The people who instill values, morals, support and love. I'm more concerned with parents allowing their children to have these fantasies of sports, rock & roll or any other kinds of HEROES.... If you need some really good parenting advice, then tell your kids Mr. Phelps is human. Why is he stripped of that quality because he is rich and famous? He makes mistakes like ALL of us. The important point is that you recognize his accomplishments - and if you work hard, you could try to break his records.... that's all... So kids..... Your parents put Mr. Phelps on a pedestal... not him. Remember that. There is nothing wrong with being human and the greater accomplishment is not lying about it. Which Mr. Phelps didn't. Honesty. Now there's something to tell the kids to look up to. Grow up America! Stop looking for other people/stars to set the example for your kids.... You're the parents, YOU should set them!" -- Single Mother of Two in White Marsh, Maryland
"You know everyone needs to leave him alone. He is just a young man experiencing and experimenting with life. He is no different than any other young person. All of us have done things in our life whether good or bad. Leave him alone and let him live his life. You the media is the one who put him on this golden pedestal, so don't be so quick to attack him. If I were check anyone's background I am certain I would find where they did something, whether it was smoking a cigarette, taking a drink or doing any type of illegal substance. Get of Mike's back and let him enjoy his life. He is a young man is bound to make mistakes. There is quite a few of you older who are still making mistakes. Personally I rather see him holding a bong than a bomb." -- Norma
"Everyone is going to try something no matter how famous you are or whatever the circumstance is. He's 23 years old; he was just out having a good time with his friends. Everyone is freaking out and saying all kinds of information because he's famous. I think everyone just needs to mind their own business and let him live his life!" -- Kristie Cassell
"While I think Michael should use more discretion my over all opinion of him has not changed. He's 23 years old, and now is the time to participate in carefree behavior. For all those individuals that hold him to a higher standard because he's a 'role model,' I can only offer this. Take a look at all of the supposed role models that have poured out of Hollywood. Michael Phelps is nowhere near those tragedies." -- Garry
"I feel that the picture of Michael Phelps is fake. For one he is a role model and 2 he didn't test positive in the Olympics. I think some people are jealous because he has 8 gold medals." -- Megan Merson
"Everybody, including politicians, are saying 'They are sorry.' This does not cut it. They need to be held more accountable for their actions." -- Mary
"I really don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Even our new president has admitted to using when he was young. Is it any different for him?" - Kitty Sarvinas
"The photo shows that Mr. Phelps is human and doesn't always make wise choices. We've all done stupid things in our lives. He is still a GREAT athlete. As far as him being a role model, people can learn from his mistakes and hopefully will make better choices because of it." - Victoria Spencer
"First and foremost, Michael Phelps is a human being who is entitled to make mistakes as anyone else. Yes, he's an Olympic winner who has a good standing reputation with the world. He has accepted his error, acknowledge the mistake (which it was), and now is focusing on correcting the problem. Everyone is always ready to jump on the band wagon and punish a celebrity before hearing the whole story. I truly believe he was set up because he has been doing so well and now he is just going to ruin his whole reputation. I DON'T THINK SO!! Come on now Baltimore. Stay by your people! That's the problem with America; they just want to throw you to the sharks!" - Towanda Wilson "I think he should get a little more than a slap on the wrist. He knows better." -- Darlene B.
"It seems that society holds roles models to a lower standard these days. Phelps was already caught for drinking and now smoking pot. I would not want my kids to follow in his footsteps. He can apologize and regret all he wants, but the only reason that is happening is because he got caught. I feel if he suffers no repercussions this will not be the last time he pushes his fame and gold metals. Start pulling the gold metals from him and I am sure he will think twice about breaking the rules again. -- Bill
"The only way this is going to die down is if the media will let it go. There are much more important things that need be focused on and reported on. Let it go. Stop showing the picture on air, remove it from the web. I just wonder how most people would fair if their every move was being recorded in one way or the other? My guess is not perfect." - Desiree
"I am already tired of hearing about Phelps. Let's look at our politicians who rip us off everyday of the week with all their corruption. They are much older and in much higher positions then he is. Hell, Bush was an alcoholic, Clinton smoked weed, other have many moral issues. The politicians have much more of an influence on our lives then Phelps and nothing happens to them but going to a country club prison, if they even get that." - Margaret Lawson
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I think it's pretty sad when parents use sport stars or movie stars as role models for their kids. Let's be real, these are people too. They are not perfect this is life get over it!!! He's just a person living his life get a different role model maybe like yourself." --Kelly "Geez, what is he, stupid? Doesn't he know that everyone in the world recognizes him, where ever he goes, and whatever he's doing? If he's going to do something that stupid, one would hope he had sense enough (I guess not) to do it behind closed doors away from public eyes and, most all, cameras. I would have thought, after the last incident, he would have grown and matured somewhat. Guess some people never learn. Dumb, dumb, dumb." --Viewer "OH MY GOD!! Can you believe it? Michael Phelps had some fun! That's all there is to it and if the media wasn't so sensation guided that would be all there is to it. But the media has to drag it all about like the poor kid is some kind of saint that isn't supposed to have a life. The media has to stick it's nose into everybody's business and try to make their opinion everybody's else. Phelps trains his butt off and stays perfectly clean while doing so, he has to eat the right things at all times when training, drink the right things while training, be up at a certain time, go to bed at a certain time and so on. The kid gives up so much of his life to his sport I think he is entitled to to go off his nut once in a while. And all this talk about a "pattern of behavior", I'd like the media to prove that they are one thousandth as clean as Phelps is before they go throwing stones. YOU GO PHELPS!!" -- Paul G. Essex
"We are all human and in that category we are not perfect." --Carol Bennett
"I think what he did was wrong considering who he is. I also think that children's parents should be their role model and not a stranger." --Viewer
"I believe we should all give him some slack. He has not spent his time being a "teenager" or doing what most kids have done by the time they hit 18. I think he should have better judgment than what he has shown, but, I know that we can all be persuaded to do things we shouldn't. I am surprised no one is bringing up the fact that this happened on a college campus………..is he the only guilty party. I think not. The person taking the picture was probably just as involved but will not suffer from the incident. I think he was doing what most young people of his age do. His life should not be ruined for it. We need to start being role models for our kids and we won't need Michael Phelps or anyone else to do what is our jobs as parents." --Nancy
"It amazes me how society is always placing celebrities on these high pedestals and the minute they mess up they're ready to drag them through the mud. Phelps is only 23-years old, still pretty much a teenager. I don't know about anyone else, but I know when I was 23 it was party time. People forget he's young and he's going to make a whole bunch of wrong decisions before it's all over with. For those people always crying role model, you need to break it down to your children the dos & don'ts of hero worship. Americans always want to make some celebrity a role model, parents make yourself the roll model and then you won't have to worry about it. So the boy smoked some pot get over it, we have so many other more pressing issues to deal with then to be worried about Michael Phelps and the bong." --Joyce
"I don't think it's as big a deal as many people are making it out to be. It's not like he was shooting heroin or smoking crack, and research shows that a person cannot die directly from smoking pot. I think Phelps is [in general] under a lot of pressure, and may have just smoked the marijuana to relieve stress, or even try to fit in amongst his friends (which is probably a difficult thing to do as it is, being an Olympic medalist and record holder). What is harmful in this, I believe, is the media spreading around the photograph of Phelps, giving the nation's youth a good, long look at drug paraphernalia. As a photographer myself, I understand what pictures I should (or should not) make public to the wider community. Yes, the photo may have originally been posted online by one of Phelps' friends (all I know at this point is that it showed up in a newspaper), but there was no need to show that to the world; a simple news story would suffice." --Amanda
"To those who are coming down on Phelps, I have just one question.......how many of you smoked pot while you were younger? Those of you growing up in the 70s, did you experiment? At some point in time, each and every one of us have experimented with something we really should not have. Is Phelps any different? And to comment on the entire role model issue, how many parents are actually true and good role models for their kids? Get a life and stop being in everyone's business........if you worry about yourself and your kids, maybe, just maybe the world will be a better place. "--Heidi Sipes
"What Michael did does not change how I feel about him. I still believe he is the greatest Olympian of all times. Yes, what he did was wrong but he still taught me the greatest thing anybody ever could. That was that it doesn't matter if your parents are divorced you can still follow your dreams and be great some day. My question, for anybody that says he shouldn't be my role model is, Have you ever tried pot? Yes, he let us down, but we have to remember what Michael accomplished this summer, is a story that should be told for years to come." --Shelby
"The issue is not Michael or the drug bong, but rather the double standard of society." --Valerie Dease
"I feel as though giving Michael Phelps a pass on this is sending a wrong message. I keep hearing that he is a typical 23 year old who made a mists. The problem is that he is not a typical 23 year old. I have a 20 year old and she has not been given millions of dollars for her image as Phelps has. He should be held accountable for his conscience decision and if he loses those millions of dollars because of it then so be it. If I make a mistake and smoke pot, I will probably lose my job and my thousands of dollars."--Bill G of Dundalk
"My opinion of Michael Phelps has not changed. I was not under the impression that he was perfect and that he would never make a mistake. It is our expectations of those who achieve a certain status that has to be managed. We hold them to unrealistic standards of behavior and when they do well we cheer in the streets. As soon as they make a mistake or act like the rest of us we drag them back down again. Let's just encourage this YOUNG man to use better judgment in the future. He probably needs a mentor to provide him with some accountability as he navigates through as new found celebrity."--Theresa Robertson
"When Michael Phelps broke the law with the DUI at 19, after receiving so much praise and adulation for his swimming expertise, I put it down to 'youth, thoughtlessness and young stupidity, lack of maturity.' But when he breaks the law again at 23, I have changed my liberal first opinion. His family and fans' near adoration along with millions of dollars from advertisers has gone to his head, unfortunately. I'm afraid he feels above the rest of less talented humanity. It's sad. And his apology…no more than a PR ploy."--Joyce Kauders of Aberdeen
"You do not normally get caught the first time you do something wrong. I hardly think that this was Michael's first time. It was just the first time pictures were released on the subject. He is supposed to be someone for the whole country to look up to. This is no different than the athletes being caught doing steroids. People in the limelight have to be very careful about what they do and say, especially those who influence children. Getting caught smoking pot is not a minor mistake. He had a choice and he chose to break the law and smoke pot. As a mother and a grandmother, I don't think he should continue to earn money endorsing products we buy for our children or they buy for themselves. If we as a nation, continue to allow our athletes to get away with this kind of thing with just a tap on the hand and acceptance of their admittance of breaking the law, children will learn it is OK to break the law as long as you admit to it. A normal person would not get away with this. An athlete should not get away with it either."--Grammysel
"Yes, Michael did something wrong, I'm sure we all have. Let's put things into perspective: President Bill Clinton admitted he tried it....President George Bush had a drinking problem...President Barack Obama admitted he tried it.Where's the beef?????????????? Everyone has gotten over it for these guys,Let's all get over it for Michael, and let him get on with his life too."-- Bob Morris
"I disrespect Michael Phelps as he has betrayed the American public and everything that the Olympics stand for, honesty and integrity of the highest level. This is a young man who has proved he is disciplined, so therefore I see this as a conscience, concise choice to use illegal drugs. It saddens me that Michael Phelps does not appreciate his talent and his position as a role model to young people. I work in the field of substance abuse and prevention and on a daily basis, I see the struggles and results of substance use, abuse and addiction. 3.3 million teen alcoholics, millions of people addicted to marijuana, 1 out of 5 teens are using prescription drugs to get high and approximately 600,000 deaths a year from some form of addiction.I really cannot forgive Michael Phelps, he was privileged and special and had an obligation to himself and his family as well as the public. I believe he is selfish and self-centered. What a disappointment. Perhaps you should forward all the negative e-mail's to him so he will have some clue."--Linda Auerback
"I only hope that Michael Phelps has learned from this experience. I am not saying I condone his actions, after all he is 23 and we have all done things we regret at his young age. My only regret is, he has not learned by now, with his celebrity status there are unscrupulous people out there that are going to take advantage of him. The person that took the photo most assuredly made a great deal of money cashing in on Michael's fame."--Andy Calder of Abingdon, Md.
"I just don't get it! Why are parents so worried about a guy their kids don't know being a role model? If your child is a swimmer, possibly looking to tie or break Mike's record? then sure... let him be a role model for swimming and setting records... Thats his accomplishments!!! Outside of that mom and dads, the bigger question is why aren't YOU your kid's role models? You're with them every day! True "heroes" do what they do best every day! It isn't about setting a record, cutting a number one hit or making a team! In a world that could use people telling the truth - HONESTY - more often, isn't the real story here that when a famous guy makes a mistake he tells the truth from the start? Our kids are going to have more opportunities to lie in life than to break Mike Phelps records. So, don't strip Mike of his humanity...I hear parents say that once a public figure, the person is "expected" to take on the burden of being a "role model." Ummmmm, I would venture to say that is the ADULT'S perception, not the child's... Most kids just want to swim like Mike. I couldn't imagine having to live my life "PERFECT" every second from 23 to whenever. Once on the pedestal, you all give him no where to go but down. Oh my goodness, to think Mike might be mortal! To all the kids out there, Mike Phelps is still the greatest swimmer ever! Who makes some stupid, immature decisions. But, he's honest. And that holds more weight in my family than the gold medals. Its a virtue we can use every day.
-- Viewer from White Marsh
"Michael deserves all the wealth and fame he worked and sacrificed for. But his achievements which made him a celebrity around the world also demand that he display a high degree of self control in his private life. DUIs, wild women, and now bongs will only tarnish his good name. If he has so much time to party and be exploited by some ill chosen friends, let him redirect his priorities to educational, artistic or charitable endeavors where his fame and fortune would be put to good use and where he is likely to find true friendships that will last a lifetime. You're a good man, Michael Phelps. But don't let the accomplishments that took you to the top be replaced by personal behavior that will take you to the bottom. Your adoring fans will eventually get tired of apologies. And there will always be someone else waiting in the wings to replace you."-- Pat
"Michael apparently didn't mean what he said after his DUI arrest
several years ago. His apology for using the marijuana pipe is the
same as he used after the DUI incident. The sad thing is his
actions may justify other teens who are questioning whether to follow
Michael's example." --Frank
"I want to know why some people are looking at this situation as if it's not serious. I don't it is fair for it to be OK for him, versus all the other men and women in sports that has lost endorsements and suffered the consequences of their actions." --Charles H. Robinson III
"There is no excuse for stupidity and Michael's actions using a bong isn't a smart thing to do, especially being a sports icon and recognizable world wide. Michael reached celebrity status at the Olympics 5 years ago at age 18/19 and quadrupled that status with his feats these past Olympics. He is 23 years of age and must be overwhelmed by all the attention he's getting. Also, being a celebrity will see Michael subjected to many temptations. One can only hope that he learns from his mistakes and moves on setting new milestones as he does. Secondly, half of society don't see marijuana as a serious threat and think it should be legalized and half OD society see it as a stepping stone to worse things. Although marijuana is illegal, lets look at the illegal activities and crimes that other sports icons and our own state and federal officials have and are committing. We have politicians in Washington that have not paid their taxes, committed spousal abuse, cashed bad checks, and several are convicted felons. Aren't they supposed to be role models too? I don't here an outcry from people to get these officials out of office. Just recently we had a new Feds. Treasury Chairman confirmed who didn't pay his taxes and a person being confirmed as the new Sec. of Health owing hundreds of thousands of dollars due to income evasion and yet, he will probably be confirmed. Where's the people's indignation for these people and their illegal activities?"--Dave D. Baltimore
"This incident with Michael Phelps is completely blown out of proportion. Should I name every celebrity who ever did a drug? He is a phenomenal athlete and myself, being 15, found nothing wrong with this. It is ignorant to assume that celebrities smoking dope can influence my decision or any teenager's decision. You're not going to hear 'Because Michael Phelps smokes marijuana it is OK if I do it", because the people most influential are the parents. With all this news coverage, even after his apology, I can only assume that he is extremely saddened by this and will honestly take this act to thought and contemplate his error. I am very pleased that his sponsors have not decided to let him go because of one honest lapse in judgment. The first law banning drugs, was proposed to combat addiction in the American populace, not to make using drugs a social death sentence. One bong hit shouldn't ruin a person's life."-- a Viewer
"If the U.S. citizens can elect a president that has admitted using illegal drugs then they need to lay off Michael. Did Michael use poor judgment in choosing to do what he did with who it did it with-yes! This may be a lesson learned for him-choose wisely and narrow your field of 'friends.' I think Michael can turn this into a positive and hopefully the youth of America can learn from his poor judgement."--Jean of Annapolis
"I think that Michael is a decent person who made a bad choice, we all have made bad choices in our lives at one time or another. Yes, he is admired by many young people and he should have thought twice before engaging in what he did. People whether they are in the public eye or not all make mistakes. I think we ought to turn our attention to more important things that are going on in this country rather than beat up on Michael for what has happened. I am sure he regrets what has happened. He still is a good person and I know that his mother is proud, even with this taste in bad judgment." --Melissa from Pasadena
"He may have made a mistake, but he was smart in not denying it. Can you imagine how much bigger this story would have been if he denied it was him, or said he never inhaled. This will be a non-issue in a week or so."-- Pat in Irvington
"He was sorry when he got caught with a D.U.I....same song and dance. Now he is sorry...sorry this came to light. What does this say to our children? That it's OK to get caught smoking pot...just say sorry to get out of it? Generally in the real white collar/blue collar world...you get caught smoking pot...you lose your job, and reputation...regardless of your accomplishments in your career. It is understood when you are hired into the profession...NO DRUGS! Oh, I know...he's a celebrity...so its OK." --TJ
"My opinion has not changed. I still think he is a young adult who is challenged by ADD and youthful indiscretion. Oh yeah, and he also happens to be a gifted athlete." --Sam
"I can understand Michael trying a drug. The stress he was under while trying to break a world record must have been tremendous. I still admire him for all the years of practice learning to swim. Then once he became a worldwide hero, the stress level was really bad. Everyone wanting a piece of him to help their companies make money. I might have given into the temptation too!" --Rose
"He is young to have found fame and he needs to remember that the youth are really looking up to him. He is human and we do mess up, I just want him to learn from this experience. Needless to say this cannot be healthy for him either." --Lisa
"Think of it this way; Phelps could be doing steroids or other types of hardcore drugs. Only God can judge. He is still young and is going to make mistakes. In my opinion, alcohol should be illegal and marijuana should be legal to an extent. How often do you hear of a domestic violence case because the husband or wife was high? It is very rare. More people die from alcohol related accidents and alcohol poisoning. Marijuana doesn't destroy families like alcohol does. He will learn as he lives his life. My boyfriend works with attorneys and you would be surprised at how many lawyers smoke marijuana. The media is so focused on horrible things rather then the good. They need to leave people alone and let them live their own life. It is his business and life, let him live it the way he wants to." --Alex
"I frankly feel that it's rather sad that we are supposed to hold up sports figures to our children as heroes. Yes, he did represent his country with tremendous effort and success. But was it for his country, or for himself? Why can't kids be encouraged to see their parents as heroes. Parents who work hard for them everyday, and put aside their own dreams and ambitions to support and encourage those of their children instead. Good parenting is very selfless, and I'm afraid kids don't always see that, and how often is it pointed out to them that Mom and/or Dad are heroes in their own quiet, constant way. And I especially feel very strongly that those serving in the military are being brushed under the rug when I hear all this attention being given to sports figures. There are 18 year old children being killed for their country, and how much media attention do they receive? And yes, they are still children, but certainly not immature. Being 23 yrs. old is no excuse for inappropriate and dangerous behavior. Right is right and wrong is wrong, and I knew that way before age 23, and I hope that I have taught my own children the same. If he could spend all those years throwing his whole self into attaining his goal so well, he should be mature enough to be a grown-up by now. His apology is simply a required media tool released to cover up an immature young man overimpressed with himself. Please encourage the media to hold up the dads and moms struggling to raise their children in a society that doesn't allow them to be children, the teachers that try to provide kids with the love they might be missing at home, the kids struggling with cancer treatment, our military personnel putting their own families on hold to try to hold on to the hope that we could live in a peaceful world. These are the people who deserve the "big bucks". I would feel relief if Michael Phelps lost a lot of the business deals he must have attained. I think he needs this to grow up, and I feel sad that we have an American hero that hasn't grown up yet. Here's to the moms and dads that we should remind our children are their heroes. Let's put their faces on the cereal boxes. Sports is just sports. Moms and Dads are the very core of a child's life." --Roselyn
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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