I have always that heard that concerning the Hollywood types that all publicity is desired, whether it be good or bad. It keeps their name in the mix in hopes of reviving a sagging career.
We have used AA exclusively forever and have never had any problems. If they want to advertise on Oprah I really don’t care one way or the other. IMO they are no worse and probably better than the other carriers from the horror stories I’ve heard about other airlines.
“I don’t care what the newspapers say about me as long as they spell my name right.” - attributed to W.C. Fields, Mark Twain, and many others