What is a "publicist"?

[NewHopeR]

I've checked out the definitions in my dict, but it seems nont has fallen into the suitable frame.

1.
a person who publicizes, especially a press agent or public-relations consultant.
2. an expert in current public or political affairs.

3. an expert in public or international law.



Context:

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Whitney Houston, who reigned as pop music’s queen until her majestic voice and regal image were ravaged by drug use, has died. She was 48.

Publicist Kristen Foster said today that the singer had died, but the cause and the location of her death were unclear.


At her peak in the 1980s and 1990s, Houston was the golden girl of the music industry and one of the world’s best-selling artistes.
Among her hits were How Will I Know, Saving All My Love for You and I Will Always Love You. She won multiple Grammys including album and record of the year.


Read more: Whitney Houston is dead - Latest News - JamaicaObserver.com

[JMurray]

In this case the "publicist" is someone who manages all the publicity for the singer, getting exposure in various media and handling advertising and outgoing information etc. So she is closest to definition #1.

not a teacher

[NewHopeR]

Thank you