TMZ asks readers to judge McConnell, Ariana and R. Kelly in weekly poll
The latest Stars and Scars roundup puts celebrity romances, politics, soccer and a Taco Bell outbreak question to a reader vote.
By Georgia Hale · Staff Writer
3 min read
TMZ turned a grab bag of politics, pop culture and sports into its latest reader referendum, asking fans to weigh in on Mitch McConnell, Ariana Grande, R. Kelly and more in the weekly “Stars and Scars” poll.
The poll package, published by TMZ, centers on a set of linked stories and two-choice votes. The site framed the week around several headline-making topics, including questions about McConnell’s condition, a diarrhea-related outbreak tied to Taco Bell coverage, R. Kelly seeking clemency from President Donald Trump, and Grande being seen again with Ricky Alvarez.
Politics, health and a fast-food gut check
One poll points readers to TMZ’s report on a McConnell photo that sparked questions about his health. TMZ asks voters whether the image makes them think the Kentucky senator is alive and recovering, or whether it suggests he is non-responsive.
Another item sends readers to TMZ’s coverage of Taco Bell during a cyclosporiasis outbreak. The poll asks whether people would still eat at the chain or avoid it because of concerns about getting sick. TMZ’s linked headline says Taco Bell maintains its food is safe amid the outbreak.
Politics keeps popping up elsewhere in the roundup. TMZ includes a poll tied to video of Sen. Chuck Schumer appearing to pass gas on the Senate floor, asking readers whether the moment is no big deal or deserves criticism.
Ariana, R. Kelly and reality TV drama
Grande’s personal life also lands on the ballot. TMZ links to a story about Alvarez grabbing Grande’s butt in New York City and asks readers whether revisiting that romance could work, or whether it might echo the failed second chapter of Bennifer.
R. Kelly is another major name in the poll set. TMZ directs readers to its report that the singer filed for clemency and asks whether Trump would grant it or whether such an outcome is possible.
Reality TV gets a slot through Taylor Frankie Paul. TMZ links to its earlier report about Paul’s season of “The Bachelorette” airing on ABC, then asks readers whether she remains a good fit for the franchise. The page also points to TMZ’s separate coverage of Paul’s exes criticizing her for how she discussed juvenile court.
Soccer and other TMZ headlines
The World Cup gets two questions. TMZ asks whether readers plan to watch the final, and whether the tournament will leave them watching more soccer after it ends or waiting until the next World Cup.
The page also promotes several other TMZ stories, including a lawsuit against Kai Cenat by a man claiming the streamer’s security guard assaulted him, a photo gallery tied to Zendaya and “Love Island,” a tattoo-themed celebrity guessing game, and a story about the father of the suspect in Charlie Kirk’s murder running a local business.
TMZ’s poll format leaves the verdict to readers, with each topic reduced to a quick either-or vote across celebrity news, political moments and sports buzz.
This story draws on original reporting from TMZ.