On some levels, in the US , we have become a cultur of gossip.
People Magizine , when it first came out , I remember thinking it's basicly gossip. I like to watch CNN, they have Showbiz Tonight on their alternate channel. Basicly gossip. THe Daily Mail in the UK, tons of gossip.
Most of the reality shows are fueled by gossip.
When I was a kid during the 70's, I could miss school if I went in service . I usually ended up with the pioneer sister, very nice ladies, but man did I get an ear full about everyones life in the Hall.
So gossip is now entertainment. Where's the Pipe? :-(