Writing an Essay on a Celebrity
Celebrities are a hotly debated topic that sparks intense feelings of affection and hatred. Whether you view celebrities as untouchable gods or self-absorbed egomaniacs, there is no doubt that they play an important role in modern society and culture. As a result, it is not uncommon for students to be asked to write an essay on a celebrity and this can present a great opportunity for the writer to explore a variety of positive and negative aspects of celebrity culture. The concept of celebrity has evolved from being linked to notable accomplishments to a focus on persona and image. Understanding how the concept of celebrity has changed can help you understand the forces shaping cultural life. From the stars of silent film to today’s social media influencers, the concept of celebrity reveals much about the social, technological and political landscape at any given time. It is often argued that the rise of modern celebrity culture was triggered by the invention of photography in the mid-C19. As photos became available to the general public, they allowed people to see stars up close, creating a sense of intimacy and distancing that was previously impossible. This enabled audiences to construct a personal interpretation of the celebrity and their role in the world, transforming them into larger-than-life idols. This was further amplified by the development of Hollywood, where stars were marketed as part of a brand and promoted on products like chewing gum. While this new era of fame was initially associated with status derived from birth or traditional achievement, the rise of tabloid magazines created the image of the fallen celebrity. The destruction of an idolized figure sparked the rage that underpins so many of the tabloids' stories and is also seen in many of the celebrity scandals that have shaped the modern zeitgeist. Author Chuck Palahniuk argues that the excessive and sensational nature of the celebrity narrative is driven by a fundamental human need for drama. In the 21st century, the democratization of fame through reality TV and social media has made it possible for ordinary individuals to curate celebrity-like personas. Those without traditional talent or accomplishment can achieve fame through their social media presence and followers, creating a new kind of celebrity that is increasingly ephemeral and closely tied to commercialism. A growing number of celebrities are using their platform to promote causes and activism, blurring the line between celebrity and politics. This trend has raised questions about the role of fame in our democracy and the extent to which celebrity status is a form of advertising. Other scholars, such as Graeme Turner in Understanding Celebrity, have critiqued the overly glamorized image of modern celebrity, suggesting that it distracts from the importance of collective social and political movements.