The AP ban Paris Hilton

Paris Hilton appeared almost twice a week in the AP wire last year. Their entertainment editor Jesse Washington had had enough. On Feb. 13, Jesse sent a memo to staffers banning any mention of Paris Hilton, barring major events.

In the Observer article Washington was quoted as saying, “There was a surprising amount of hand-wringing. A lot of people in the newsroom were saying this was tampering with the news.” Washington added that one editor’s response was: “This is a great idea — can we add North Korea?”

They say the campaign was largely successful. I don’t know how low their expectations are because just yesterday, Feb. 28, they ran “Paris Hilton may have her probation revoked.” Good job AP. You guys lasted two weeks and a day.