LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Singer Katy Perry and British comedian Russell Brand shocked fans with their fast track to marriage last year, and in how they revealed the news to the public and each other via the Internet.

“Because neither Perry nor Brand has unique appeal or what might be considered passable talent,” said Tremaine Weldowhether, professor of media studies at San Narciso College, “they both rely on shock tactics, unconventional demeanor and public antics to maintain their celebrity status. True to form, Perry told entertainment media sources that she discovered Brand’s intention to propose through a Google alert.”