Analysis of CNN story by Lisa Respers France on Demi Lovato.
By Caitlin Farmer
Why this story is news:
The story, “Demi Lovato feels ‘more joy’ in her life, two years after her overdose” has the element of fame. Lovato is a household name, but her 2018 overdose is almost as well-known. Lisa Respers France, an entertainment beat reporter with CNN, took Lovato’s recent interview about her overdose with “CBS Sunday Morning” and shared Lovato’s post-overdose struggles and revelations.
How they reported the story:
Using Lovato’s “CBS Sunday Morning” interview, France quotes Lovato sharing intimate details from her overdose, as well as what it’s been like after. She used quotes of Lovato discussing the brain damage she suffered, as well as how she copes with her recovery. This story passed the Topeka test because France begins it by sharing when the overdose happened and how Lovato feels she had to “essentially die” to “wake up.” Additionally, she discusses how Lovato’s eating disorder and substance abuse contributed, as well as how Lovato is doing now, two years later.
How they wrote the story:
France used a name-recognition lede with some elements of interesting action in order to draw readers in. She does this by beginning with Lovato’s name and following with her statements of how she had to “essentially die” in order to “wake up” in regards to her overdose. The nut graf explains what Lovato is known for, as well as where the interview France is reporting on, aired, giving more context to the quotes and claims in the lede. I believe the best quote is the one France used to end the story saying, “I feel more joy in my life than I’ve ever felt because I’m not quieting or diminishing any part of myself.” I feel this quote is a very powerful way to end the story regarding her struggles leading up to her overdose and those she still faces today. The quote gives a conclusion to the story and Lovato’s personal story despite her ongoing battles, because she finally feels free and happy.
“I feel more joy in my life than I’ve ever felt because I’m not quieting or diminishing any part of myself.”
Demi Lovato
How I Wrote the Story:
Demi Lovato had a very public overdose in the summer of 2018 and is now ready to share her story. Lisa Respers France covered Lovato’s interview with “CBS Sunday Morning.” I analyzed the story by pin pointing the type of lede used, how Respers France reported it and how the quotes she chose enhanced the article.