Gertz, civil rights lawyer in Chicago, defamed by American Opinion, published by the John Birch Society. Ruling ceased the steady expansion of First Amendment protection to publications. If the writer can show that the defamatory material is true, the offended person can still sue, but probably won't win. Talks in the hallway outside of court do not qualify. Fair comment and criticism.
Critics can comment on the work of artists, authors, performers, etc.
Must be based on truth and must not attack the person's personal life. Privacy Embarrassing material can be published as long as people are involved in a legitimate new story. If story is not legitimate and information is embarrassing, invasion of privacy suit is possible. If a reporter forces his or her way into a private area to gather news, it is called intrusion. Invasion may not be physical.