Many people wonder what it’s like to be a part of the 1%. There is a good reason why programs documenting the lives of the rich and celebrities are popular. The world’s ordinary citizens find it fascinating to see extravagant displays of wealth with sprawling mansions, mega yachts, fancy holidays, designer garb, and more. Shows like Keeping Up with the Kardashians or Selling Sunset (a show about selling prime real estate to the rich and famous) enjoy high viewership ratings since they provide a sneak peek of something the majority of the ordinary working class may find difficult to attain.
And apart from the extravagance and opulence, these programs also document moments of melancholia, times of uncertainty, and vicious catfights, which prove that at the end of the day, rich, popular celebrities experience bad things and down times just like normal individuals. It’s just that they have fewer money problems and cry in their designer clothes. For these reasons, the average Joe and Jane can’t help but binge-watch these programs to get a glimpse of the unique world of the mega-famous and super-rich.
At the Heart of Celebrity Worship
Famous celebrities are idolized because they are ambassadors of meritocracy. They represent the ideals of success and the pursuit of wealth through hard work, talent, and charm. For example, everyone loves how Jennifer Lopez struggled as the girl from the hood or the block but managed to change her fortune by never giving up. Today, she is among the most famous Hollywood stars, commanding millions of dollars for her songs and movie appearances.
Psychologists would say this is part of the “halo” effect, where people put admirable individuals on a pedestal and idolize them. After all, they’ve pulled ahead of the crowd regarding fame and fortune. The fascination stems from the following:
- Stars are constantly seen on television, on the silver screen, and on social media, which breeds familiarity
- People find their talents and skills fascinating, and they wish to emulate it
- The constant exposure makes people feel as if they know the celebrities to a certain extent
- Celebrities are talked about in social circles, and humans enjoy chatting about these popular topics
Suppose one were to ask a professional writer to write my essay on this sociological phenomenon. In that case, they’d most likely include that at the crux of celebrity worship is a social appeal that fills a person’s life. The heart of idolizing a celebrity could meet a psychological need and help someone define their sense of self. Today, celebrities are everywhere and have become a part of a cult culture, so they can even feel like a drug that makes people feel good. That’s why people follow and worship the ground these superstars walk on.
It’s Not All Bed and Roses
However, it is important to note that everything that most spectators see is only the glitz and glamor. Behind every made-up smiling face of a rich star is a secret life they won’t show the camera. Remember, famous people are human beings who also inevitably feel pain and suffering, which are only masked behind giant bedazzling smiles, beautiful clothes, and expensive accessories. Some would say that behind all the adoring fans is a vulnerability that these icons feel afraid to show the world.
Underneath all the shining klieg lights and despite being surrounded by millions of fans, a celebrity can feel very alone and lonely. Ever wonder why legendary comedian Robin Williams, who has a perpetual smile on his face, and Anthony Bourdain, an acclaimed chef, chose to take their own lives despite their popularity and money?
Many couldn’t help but wonder why these popular stars resorted to suicide when they had a lot of money and everyone worldwide could recognize them. But upon deep analysis, fame can stun an individual’s social life because privacy flies out the window. Hence, it can be tough to maintain a strong intimate circle of trusted friends. The latter is essential to a human being’s real happiness, so it shouldn’t be surprising that celebrities grapple with deep depression and anxiety.
Maintaining a “Brand” Could Put a Strain on Relationships
Living a regular life is hard for a celebrity because the paparazzi and their fans hound them. Imagine something as simple as making new friends and forging meaningful relationships becomes tricky. Affluent movie stars wonder if people want to be friends with them for their real selves or brand. Most superstars can’t help but think others want to get in their good graces because of their high profile, network, and connection. No matter how new friendships seem genuine, it’s just tainted with that worry.
At the same time, popular stars may find that their relationships with few family members and real friends from their past lives could be slowly degrading over time. Hectic schedules and busyness make it hard to nurture relationships, so the distance inevitably grows. Their prolific career puts a slow drain, and a gradual wedge emerges with people once close to them. Unfortunately, stars can’t throw out the career they worked so hard to achieve. Ultimately, all they have left is industry connections where they must maintain a facade.
The Powerful Impact of a Celebrity
Famous people, whether they’re actors, singers, sports stars, and other influencers, have an impact on society. They especially strongly influence the youth, often affecting attitudes and behavior. This is most evident in the influence on body image, material consumption (such as patronizing designer brands), and substance use.
Final Thoughts
Anyone looking at a celebrity, especially after seeing or hearing their work, must do so with a critical mind instead of blind idolatry. Although these popular stars live in palatial mansions, wear expensive clothes, and enjoy deep pockets, they are real people, too, suffering from hurts and disappointments. Instead of obsessive hero-worship of stars, people must use celebrity stories as entry points to discuss values, mental health, and the opportunity costs of making choices.