Gag orders would affect the principals in the case but would not stop the general discussion and gossip. Our first amendment makes it improbable that a blackout of info would or could ever occur. Frankly, if a juror is so boneheaded and discusses a case when the judge specifically ordered him/them not to, a gag order isn't going to mean anything. The only thing that gets through to someone who refuses to follow the law or the judge's orders, is their loss of freedom for some period of time.
No juror is ever allowed to discuss the case with anyone--including other jurors--until deliberations begin. If they can't control themselves, there will be consequences. These trials aren't cheap and it is shocking how widespread the disrespect for the system seems to extend in N.C. It stinks.
The defendant's right to a fair trial trumps any right of the public to leer into the courtroom. I'm betting the Judge has a deputy taking names or in some way identifying who gets in....and who does not.
JMO