Entertainment
The 'Bump': A Showbiz Explainer
Ever wondered what it means when a celebrity gets 'bumped' from a talk show? We explain the showbiz term, why it happens, and its impact.
What is it?
In showbiz, a 'bump' is when a scheduled guest on a program, most often a talk show, has their appearance canceled or postponed at the last minute. This isn't necessarily a reflection on the guest but is a logistical reality of live or near-live television. It's an industry term for being rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances or time constraints.
Why is it trending?
The term 'bump' frequently trends when a high-profile incident occurs. This can happen when a major breaking news event requires coverage, a previous interview runs long, or a more prominent guest is added to the lineup. Recent talk show controversies and discussions about guest scheduling have brought the term back into the public spotlight, highlighting the unpredictable nature of television production.
How does it affect people?
For a celebrity and their publicity team, getting bumped can be highly disruptive. It throws a wrench into carefully planned promotional tours for films, music, or other projects. While it's considered a professional hazard, it can still cause frustration and waste resources. Publicly acknowledged bumps can sometimes create awkward press, though it's typically handled diplomatically behind the scenes to maintain industry relationships.