To add and reiterate what others have said:

• It’s similar to following sports and knowing all the game results, who’s injured/out for the season, etc.
• People like to feel part of larger society/culture, and to feel knowledgeable, to feel “in on things”
• It’s a way to fill time/fill the void, a distraction from “real life” which can leave you feeling powerless/drained
• It can be a good conversation topic with friends when there’s not much to talk about (or when other topics can be contentious)