Sorry, but can't agree with you here. Yes, TV can exploit people's grief. But the son here was a fully-grown man who obviously chose to appear, and as a result was given the opportunity to confront the governor on live TV and make his points about mine safety, etc. in a way that will almost surely have much more impact than if he did not appear. I do not believe he will feel exploited.
The Today show has a long history of exploiting people's grief
I'll never forget Katie during Columnine and how she exploited that
I agree. He will not feel exploited because he is grieving and the lure of bright lights and a celebrity will mask the feelings of exploitation. These people are in a vulnerable position and are easy to take advantage of.
Tell me that "reporters" don't recognize this fact.