Jean-Michel Basquiat's work often reflects his keen observations of the society and culture around him, and the entertainment industry is no exception. His paintings contain numerous references to popular culture, music, television, and film, and they offer critiques of the celebrity culture and racial dynamics of the entertainment industry.

Music: Basquiat had a deep interest in music and it played an essential role in his life and art. Before he became a painter, he was a part of the noise rock band Gray. His art frequently references jazz, blues, and hip hop. He made paintings that directly reference musicians, both contemporary ones and figures from the past. He depicted them not just as entertainers, but often as complex figures navigating the challenges of fame and racial identity.

Film and Television: Basquiat also made references to film and television in his work. These references might be seen as critiques of the ways in which black people are represented in the media. They might also be seen as reflections of his own complex relationship with fame.

Fame and Celebrity Culture: Having achieved considerable fame at a young age, Basquiat had a unique perspective on celebrity culture. His works often depict the pressures and pitfalls of fame. He grappled with the tension between the desire for success and the fear of exploitation, particularly as a black artist in a predominantly white art world.

Boxing: In Basquiat's art, boxing can be seen as a metaphor for his own struggles as an artist. He admired the skill and endurance of boxers, and he identified with their status as both heroes and victims. Boxing, as a part of the entertainment industry, also served as a vehicle for Basquiat to comment on the commodification of black bodies.

In these ways, the entertainment industry surfaces as a recurring theme in Basquiat's work. As with other elements in his art, these references are multifaceted and open to interpretation. They add another layer to his rich, complex exploration of society, culture, and identity.