Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.20901/pm.63.2.04
Constructing the Spectacle: Clickbait Strategies in the Media Coverage of Thompson’s Concert in Zagreb*
Silvija Vuković
orcid.org/0000-0002-5722-8562
; University of Zagreb, Faculty of Political Science
Sunčica Šoljan
; University of Zagreb, Faculty of Political Science
Abstract
Drawing on Kellner’s conceptualization of spectacle, this study situates the construction of spectacle within the contemporary digital media environment, emphasizing the role of platform logics and algorithmic visibility. It argues that clickbait practices coincide with this process, as the “click” has become the dominant metric of value in the digital information economy, often leading to the circulation of misleading, exaggerated, or incomplete information. This not only erodes journalistic standards but also facilitates the spread of misinformation and amplifies controversy. The study examines media coverage of Marko Perković Thompson’s concert held in Croatia on July 5, 2025, a record-breaking and highly polarizing event that serves as a valuable case for analyzing the media’s role in the construction of spectacle. A quantitative content analysis of three Facebook pages of the most-read Croatian news portals reveals high agenda saturation, with 71.43% of all published content on that day focused on Thompson or the concert. This dominance of content related to the event was formatted through clickbait strategies, as 89.6% of headlines contained at least one clickbait variable. The study highlights a circular relationship between news production, algorithmic logic, and the construction of contemporary media spectacles.
Keywords
Thompson; Media Spectacle; Clickbait Strategies; Croatian Media
Hrčak ID:
349715
URI
Publication date:
24.7.2026.
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