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41 Celebrity Memoirs That Are Actually Worth Reading

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Anyone who has glanced at a bestseller list lately can tell you that we are in the midst of (yet another?) celebrity memoir boom. From Britney Spears to Prince Harry, it seems like just about everyone is spilling their secrets via book deal —meaning ’tis the season for pages upon pages of Hollywood gossip, rock-and-roll road drama, and the darker sides of show business.

At their best, celebrity memoirs provide unusually candid portraits of the “real person” behind the public persona—and they don’t skimp on the dirty details. At worst, they can be ghostwritten fluff.

 Ahead, Vogue rounds up the best of the genre for your reading pleasure.

The Woman in Me by Britney Spears

Britney Spears

“Emerging from the shadows of a past marked by paparazzi harassment and betrayal by the people she trusted, Britney Spears finally speaks her truth in this highly anticipated—and then much celebrated—memoir. With a blend of deep sincerity and good humor, Spears fearlessly asserts her autonomy, leaving no doubt about who is truly in control of her life.” —Gia Yetikyel

Spare by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex

Spare by Prince Harry

“Even for those who don’t keep up with the Royal Family, the central themes of grief, love, and creating a home apart from everything you’ve known in Prince Harry ’s shockingly intimate Spare make it a story very much worth reading.” —G.Y.

Paris: The Memoir by Paris Hilton

“ Paris Hilton’s 336-page book takes an in-depth look at the many labels she’s adorned and shed over the decades. Unpacking her childhood, episodes of teenage rebellions, and experience with verbal and physical abuse, she creates a place for readers to understand the origins of her pink paradise—and the strength it took to withstand years of extraordinary public pressure.” —G.Y.

One Life by Megan Rapinoe

“Olympic medalist and two-time Women's World Cup champion Megan Rapinoe shows a whole new side of herself in this memoir, in which she recounts coming out as gay in 2011—well before ‘inclusivity in sports’ was widely discussed, let alone prioritized—as well as her experience of taking a knee alongside former NFL player Colin Kaepernick to protest racial injustice and police brutality. For those who prefer their celebrity memoirs with a side of romance, Rapinoe also dishes on her courtship with now-wife, WNBA champion Sue Bird.” —Emma Specter

Becoming by Michelle Obama

“For months after reading this, I had to stop myself from thinking of Michelle as my friend. After spending a week (or, let’s be honest, an entire weekend under a blanket) reading a celebrity’s memoir, you feel as though you’ve spent time with them. It makes them more accessible and reminds you that at the end of the day, everyone is still human. I’m coming to grips with the fact that Michelle Obama is not actually my friend Michelle, but Becoming is still one of the best books I’ve read.” —Grace Atwood, founder of TheStripe.com

I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy  

I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

“This bestselling memoir is hardly lighthearted fare, revolving as it does around child star McCurdy’s years of physical and emotional abuse at the hands of her fame-obsessed mother, but the rush to purchase it was no empty fanfare; it really is that good.” —E.S.

Save Me the Plums by Ruth Reichl

“Whether you’re a fan of food, legacy media gossip, or writer Ruth Reichl herself, you'll find plenty to dine out on in this account of Reichl’s time serving as the editor-in-chief of the now-defunct Gourmet magazine. Reichl freely admits that the glamorous world of New York publishing was a new one to her at the start of her Gourmet tenure, but I think it’s safe to say we could use a little more of her independence, irreverence and commitment to genuine creativity in the industry. (Bonus: her descriptions of meals are effortlessly mouth-watering, so make sure to eat with a delicious snack at the ready.)” —E.S.

The Vanity Fair Diaries by Tina Brown

“Perhaps more of a memoir of brushes with celebrity than actual celebrity memoir, Tina Brown’s Vanity Fair Diaries is nonetheless a phenomenal read, for the journalism nerd or anyone else who is interested in the inner workings of glossy magazine-making in its heyday. The book recounts the British editor's years as the editor in chief of the storied magazine, the feathers she unapologetically ruffled in pursuit of a more lively publication (the rates she paid Martin Amis for a single story would make a 2020s editor swoon!), the glamor of the gig, the grind of being a working mother. Brown kept meticulous notes when she occupied this role, and it shows; this is a book in which the delicious dirt is in the details.” —Chloe Schama

My Name Is Barbra by Barbra Streisand

My Name Is Barbra

“Ruminative and dishy, funny and smart, Barbra Streisand’s nearly 1,000-page memoir deftly captures the voice that first bewitched American audiences in the early 1960s—plus her weird dynamic with Marlon Brando, the nightmare of making Yentl with Mandy Patinkin, her lifelong fondness for baked potatoes, and other delicious bits.” —Marley Marius

Love, Pamela: A Memoir of Prose, Poetry, and Truth by Pamela Anderson

“With Pamela Anderson’s memoir, readers meet the woman behind the va-va-voom persona—she is, in fact, just a shy girl from Vancouver Island—through childhood memories and reflections on pursuing her dreams. Blending prose and poetry, it’s a refreshing and empowering read.” —G.Y.

Bossypants by Tina Fey

“If you haven’t read Fey’s 2011 memoir yet, you’re sleeping at the wheel. It follows her journey to stardom and is filled with amazing behind-the-scenes stories from her time on Saturday Night Live . Candid, self-deprecating, funny (duh): the perfect before-bed read.” —Christian Allaire

Just the Funny Parts by Nell Scovell

“The second female Letterman writer and creator of Sabrina the Teenage Witch , Scovell brings all the humor of Bossypants but with the added bite of coming up in the mighty sexist man’s world of TV. Scovell names names and calls it like she sees it.” —Michelle Ruiz, Vogue.com contributing editor

Fresh Off the Boat by Eddie Huang

“This memoir by the celebrity chef behind New York’s Baohaus inspired the ABC show of the same name—but the book version is far less fuzzy. Huang gives an unapologetically real look at his upbringing in a hardworking and often strict Chinese-American family. And his sumptuous descriptions of food make you really, really hungry.” —M.R.

Finding Me by Viola Davis

“A Rhode Island childhood marked by trauma and abuse gives way to an adulthood in the spotlight as one of the most recognizable actresses in Hollywood, and Davis relays the topsy-turviness of her life’s circumstances with a compelling mix of emotional honesty and grace.” —E.S.

Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling

“Mindy Kaling holds a rarefied position in Hollywood these days, but the writer, actress and director's bestselling 2011 memoir proves that her ascent to the top wasn’t always an easy one. In Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? , Kaling recounts her growth from the shy, bookish child of immigrants to off-Broadway sensation to the youngest writer on the staff of the hit NBC sitcom The Office ; what’s most notable about the memoir, though, is the way Kaling's singular voice shines through, lending even the wildest of L.A. tales a crucial degree of relatability.” —E.S.

Open Book by Jessica Simpson

“I went into Open Book expecting a light, fun read from one of my favorite reality stars (remember Newlyweds ?) of all time—instead, I was blown away by an honest, funny, and touching memoir, which is so rarely the case with celebrity ‘tell-alls.’ Simpson candidly discusses her recovery journey after years of struggling with drugs and alcohol abuse; she also examines the darker side of her early-fame days as a singer, when she was constantly—and at times, brutally—compared to her counterparts like Britney Spears or Christina Aguilera. It was my favorite book of 2020, and I recommend it to any pop culture fan, Simpson fans or not.” —C.A.

This Will Only Hurt a Little by Busy Philipps

“A pitch-perfect example of the genre, Philipps serves up a funny and unflinching look at being a woman in Hollywood. She dives into her days as a Barbie spokes-kid and, bravely, her abortion as a teen, before moving on to her best friendship with Michelle Williams, details of James Franco’s douchey-ness on Freaks and Geeks , and struggles in her marriage. The best celebrity memoirs are as unsparingly honest as Philipps’ is.” —M.R.

Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir by Matthew Perry

“In his book, the late actor delves into his early life and rise to fame amidst an intense struggle with drug and alcohol addiction. Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing is written in such a way that you can imagine Perry speaking it to you—his voice is comforting, heartbreaking, and oh-so-familiar to the many of us who grew up watching him in the 1990s and early 2000s.” —G.Y.

Life by Keith Richards

“You might not think of Keith Richards as an elegant truth-teller, but his Life is a bracing tonic—straightforward but exciting, glamorous but heartfelt. I’m not a regular rock memoir reader, but this is a book that transcends whatever you might think the genre entails. Just go along with the music and don’t think too hard about it.” —Chloe Schama

You’ll Never Eat Lunch in This Town Again by Julia Phillips

“Not sure she’s a straight-up A-list celeb, but Phillips made the A-list celebs. The Hollywood producer’s story is so full of wild pleasures and OMG moments that it’s easy to overlook the sheer brilliance that’s on offer.” —Lauren Mechling, Vogue contributor and author of How Could She

Horror Stories by Liz Phair

“The first of a planned two-part set (the second of which will be titled Fairy Tales ), Horror Stories is less of a traditional memoir and more of a series of vignettes that tackle some of the ‘small indignities that we all suffer daily, the silent insults to our system, the callous gestures that we make toward one another.’ Most of us won’t suffer the indignities of an anesthesiologist asking for our autograph during labor (we’re not all Gen X rock stars, after all), but we can wince at the, yes, horror, and relate to the rest of Phair’s not-so-tall tales .” —Danny Feekes, former managing editor at Goodreads

The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music by Dave Grohl

“Not to stereotype straight white men over 30, but all the ones I know happen to love Dave Grohl, making this memoir—which focuses on the Nirvana and Foo Fighter musician’s years on the road—an absolutely smashing birthday or holiday gift when another coffee mug just won’t do.” —E.S.

Open by Andre Agassi

Open: An Autobiography by Andre Agassi

“We’ve all read (or carefully avoided) the triumphal sports-star memoir: The thousands of solitary hours spent in pursuit of excellence while stoically avoiding everything else, leading up to that magical breakthrough when everything was deemed to be Worth It. This isn’t that memoir: Agassi, arguably the best player of his generation and certainly the flashiest and most-visible, is remarkably frank here about how much he seemed to loathe the entire experience, which was foisted on him by a kind of ur-Tennis Dad. Thankfully, we also get the other side of that: A late- career resurgence, followed by a blissful second marriage and a philanthropic turn that’s both heartfelt and, for the underprivileged children it focuses on, life-changing. For the king of neon and acid-washed jeans who became even more famous for saying ‘image is everything,’ this book is a tragic opera with a happy ending.” —Corey Seymour

Dear Mr. You by Mary Louise Parker

"Parker’s 2015 memoir has really stayed with me. Written as a series of letters to men she’s encountered, imagined, or loved, it’s a formal experiment, a wonderful portrait of an established artist claiming new territory. She’s not really in the tell-all business, but what she’s written reveals plenty.” —Julia Felsenthal, Vogue contributor

Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

“When Noah was born under apartheid in South Africa, his parents’ interracial union was, literally, a crime, punishable by five years in prison. That’s just the beginning of The Daily Show host’s remarkable story. At turns harrowing and hilarious, it’s perhaps best consumed via audiobook , read by the author.” —M.R.

Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey

“Based on decades’ worth of his own diary entries (which also included poems, photographs, prescriptions, and many, many bumper stickers), Matthew McConaughey’s memoir discusses his personal philosophy for handling life’s challenges, and what it means to keep catching the green lights through hardships.” —G.Y.

Dreams From My Father by Barack Obama

“The world rightfully knows Obama as a brilliant orator. But even before he was president (or even state senator), he wrote the hell out of this 1995 memoir (later re-released to great fanfare) about his upbringing in Hawaii and Kansas; his solitary, scholarly Columbia years; and his distant relationship with his dad. Now I spend my days waiting for his presidential memoir-in-the-works.” —M.R.

Sometimes I Feel Like a Nut by Jill Kargman

“As a fellow native New Yorker and NYC mom, Kargman’s dishing on ‘the city’ has always been hilarious and spot-on, even before her show Odd Mom Out came out. The essays in this book are so Jill : Honest, irreverent, slightly dark. full of curse words—yet imminently likable and, in fact, addictive.” —Zibby Owens, host of the Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books podcast

The Office BFFs: Tales of The Office from Two Best Friends Who Were There by Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey

The Office BFFs: Tales of ‘The Office’ from Two Best Friends Who Were There by Jenna Fischer and and Angela Kinsey

“ The Office stars Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey may have been rivals on the show, but in real life, their sweet and silly bestie-dom is contagious, making this recollection of working on one of history’s most popular sitcoms a genuine pleasure to read.” —E.S.

The Dirt by Motley Crue

The Dirt: Confessions of the World's Most Notorious Rock Band by Tommy Lee

“I never thought that one of my favorite books of all time would have a cover featuring a lady in a G-string whose disembodied form we see dancing inside a whiskey bottle. But at least you’ve been warned: What you see is what you get in this group memoir from the glam metal band. The sheer magnitude of debauchery at their peak in the 1980s is too compelling to look away.” —Maris Kreizman, host of The Maris Review podcast

In Pieces by Sally Field

“Sally Field took her sweet time with In Pieces , her first memoir, written over seven years without the assistance of a ghostwriter. To call Field’s writing vulnerable doesn’t give enough credit to the way she recounts with crippling honesty the highs and lows of her personal and professional lives. She’s always been beloved as a performer, but In Pieces shows there’s so much more to admire about Field than the trophies on her mantle.” —Keaton Bell

I.M. by Isaac Mizrahi

“Mizrahi is well-known as a man of many talents, so adding ‘writer’ to the list isn’t a stretch. Still, the quality of his memoir, I.M. , is notable. He talks schmattas and sex with typical sass, but what makes this book memorable is that Mizrahi’s coming-of-age and coming-to-terms tale is bigger than fashion. —Laird Borelli-Persson, Vogue archive editor

Making a Scene by Constance Wu

“Often told that ‘good girls don’t make scenes,’ the TV and film star writes about finding an outlet for her feelings through community theater and how it eventually led to her pursuing an acting career. Authentic and very moving.” —G.Y.

Touched by the Sun: My Friendship With Jackie by Carly Simon

“Simon’s first book, Boys in the Trees , is what all celebrity memoirs should aspire to be, toggling between childhood struggles, musical stardom, and a highly publicized marriage to James Taylor with plenty of wit and revelations sprinkled throughout. Touched by the Sun is more scaled back, focusing on the iconic singer-songwriter’s unlikely but enduring friendship with Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Detailing the lunches, movie dates, and nights out on the town that the two women shared before Onassis’s death in 1994, Simon highlights the woman beneath the public persona.” —K.B.

Wildflower by Drew Barrymore

“If you’re a completist, start with Drew’s first memoir, the propulsive Little Girl Lost (out of print but easy to find secondhand), which she wrote when she was 14. It recounts a young Barrymore’s stratospheric rise and quick drug-fueled descent, while Wildflower finds an older, more assured Barrymore looking back at a larger-than-life existence, one in which she emancipated from her parents, forged out on her own, and paved her distinctive path. As Drew writes, “I wanted to rescue myself. And I did.” —D.F.

Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business by Dolly Parton

“Before picking up Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics , take a peek at Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business from the 1990s. Get to know the rhinestone-studded, smooth-talking country singer as she discusses her personal philosophies, marriage, and her transformation from a music-loving teenager into one of the world’s most iconic women.” —G.Y.

Just Kids by Patti Smith

“Smith’s National Book Award–winning memoir is a portrait of a place and time—New York, Summer of Love—and a love letter to a bygone era that produced two iconoclasts: poet and musician Smith, and late photographer Robert Mapplethorpe. The story follows the duo’s trials and tribulations as they traverse Brooklyn, Coney Island, and Times Square, before settling at the infamous Chelsea Hotel. Smith has said that she didn’t write the book to be cathartic, but to fulfill a vow she made to Mapplethorpe on his deathbed. Ultimately, it’s the reader who reaps the rewards of that request.” —D.F.

Stories I Only Tell My Friends by Rob Lowe

“It’s over 10 years later, and I’m still crushed by Sam Seaborne’s departure from The West Wing , so I couldn’t resist Lowe’s memoir. It’s packed with plenty of sordid stories from his wild days as part of the Brat Pack, but also has so many great behind-the-scenes memories from some of my favorite TV shows and movies. While it probably won’t win a Pulitzer, any fan of ’80s rom-coms will still find this delightful!” —Becca Freeman, co-host of the Bad on Paper podcast

Me by Elton John

“Honest, charming, and all too real, Me follows the extraordinary life of Elton John from his origins in a London suburb to his rise to fame, legendary friendships, struggles with drug addiction, and philanthropy work.” —G.Y.

My Life So Far by Jane Fonda

“I’ve been reading this in fits and starts for about a decade, and I’ve still yet to encounter another life story so dutifully (and beautifully) re-examined. It’s easy to take Fonda’s cool self-assuredness—even in handcuffs!—for granted these days, but before Firebrand Jane there was “plain Jane,” woefully uncomfortable in her skin and desperate for outside validation. To chart her path from then until now (and to think of all that’s still to come) is something I wouldn’t mind doing for another 10 years.” —M.M.

The Princess Diarist by Carrie Fisher

“All three of Fisher’s memoirs reflect her trademark cool demeanor and self-deprecating nature, but her final release is my favorite. The beating heart of the book is the story of teenage Fisher’s secret three-month-long affair with Harrison Ford, then 33 and married with two kids. Fisher was hopelessly, naively in love with him, and Ford took advantage of the situation. You won’t find much behind-the-scenes Star Wars intel, but you will find an honest, painful account of Fisher’s experience as a young woman in love and at the mercy of so many patriarchal forces.” —Cristina Arreola, senior publicity and marketing manager, Sourcebooks

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On the Internet, We’re Always Famous

By Chris Hayes

The fennec fox is the smallest fox on earth and cute as a button. It has mischievous dark eyes, a small black nose, and impish six-inch ears—each several times larger than its head. The fennec is native to the Sahara, where its comically oversized auricles play two key roles: they keep the fox cool in the baking sun (blood runs through the ears, releases heat, and circulates back through the body, now cooler), and they give the fox astoundingly good hearing, allowing it to pick up the comings and goings of the insects and reptiles it hunts for food.

The children’s section of the Bronx Zoo features a human-sized pair of fennec-fox ears that give an approximation of the fox’s hearing. Generations of New Yorkers have pictures of themselves with their chins resting on a bar between the two enormous, sculptural ears, taking in the sounds around them. I first encountered the ears as a kid, in the eighties. In my memory, inhabiting the fox’s hearing is disquieting. The exhibit is not in the middle of the Sahara on a moonlit night. The soundscape is not deathly quiet, dusted by the echoes of a lizard whooshing through the sand. The effect is instant sensory overload. You suddenly hear everything at once—snippets of conversation, shrieks, footsteps—all of it too much and too loud.

Imagine, for a moment, you find yourself equipped with fennec-fox-level hearing at a work function or a cocktail party. It’s hard to focus amid the cacophony, but with some effort you can eavesdrop on each and every conversation. At first you are thrilled, because it is thrilling to peer into the private world of another person. Anyone who has ever snuck a peek at a diary or spent a day in the archives sifting through personal papers knows that. Humans, as a rule, crave getting up in people’s business.

But something starts to happen. First, you hear something slightly titillating, a bit of gossip you didn’t know. A couple has separated, someone says. “They’ve been keeping it secret. But now Angie’s dating Charles’s ex!” Then you hear something wildly wrong. “The F.D.A. hasn’t approved it, but also there’s a whole thing with fertility. I read about a woman who had a miscarriage the day after the shot.” And then something offensive, and you feel a desire to speak up and offer a correction or objection before remembering that they have no idea you’re listening. They’re not talking to you.

Then, inevitably, you hear someone say something about you. Someone thinks it’s weird that you’re always five minutes late for the staff meeting, or wonders if you’re working on that new project that Brian started doing on the side, or what the deal is with that half-dollar-sized spot of gray hair on the back of your head. Injury? Some kind of condition?

Suddenly—and I speak from a certain kind of experience on this, so stay with me—the thrill curdles. If you overhear something nice about you, you feel a brief warm glow, but anything else will ball your stomach into knots. The knowledge is taboo; the power to hear, permanently cursed.

It would be better at this point to get rid of the fennec ears. Normal human socializing is impossible with them. But even if you leave the room, you can’t unhear what you’ve heard.

This is what the Internet has become.

It seems distant now, but once upon a time the Internet was going to save us from the menace of TV. Since the late fifties, TV has had a special role, both as the country’s dominant medium, in audience and influence, and as a bête noire for a certain strain of American intellectuals, who view it as the root of all evil. In “ Amusing Ourselves to Death ,” from 1985, Neil Postman argues that, for its first hundred and fifty years, the U.S. was a culture of readers and writers, and that the print medium—in the form of pamphlets, broadsheets, newspapers, and written speeches and sermons—structured not only public discourse but also modes of thought and the institutions of democracy itself. According to Postman, TV destroyed all that, replacing our written culture with a culture of images that was, in a very literal sense, meaningless. “Americans no longer talk to each other, they entertain each other,” he writes. “They do not exchange ideas; they exchange images. They do not argue with propositions; they argue with good looks, celebrities and commercials.”

This revulsion against the tyranny of TV seemed particularly acute in the early years of the George W. Bush Administration. In 2007, George Saunders wrote an essay about the bleating idiocy of American mass media in the era after 9/11 and the run-up to the Iraq War. In it, he offers a thought experiment that has stuck with me. Imagine, he says, being at a party, with the normal give and take of conversation between generally genial, informed people. And then “a guy walks in with a megaphone. He’s not the smartest person at the party, or the most experienced, or the most articulate. But he’s got that megaphone.”

The man begins to offer his opinions and soon creates his own conversational gravity: everyone is reacting to whatever he’s saying. This, Saunders contends, quickly ruins the party. And if you have a particularly empty-minded Megaphone Guy, you get a discourse that’s not just stupid but that makes everyone in the room stupider as well:

Let’s say he hasn’t carefully considered the things he’s saying. He’s basically just blurting things out. And even with the megaphone, he has to shout a little to be heard, which limits the complexity of what he can say. Because he feels he has to be entertaining, he jumps from topic to topic, favoring the conceptual-general (“We’re eating more cheese cubes—and loving it!”), the anxiety- or controversy-provoking (“Wine running out due to shadowy conspiracy?”), the gossipy (“Quickie rumored in south bathroom!”), and the trivial (“Which quadrant of the party room do YOU prefer?”).

Yes, he wrote that in 2007, and yes, the degree to which it anticipates the brain-goring stupidity of Donald Trump ’s pronouncements is uncanny. Trump is the brain-dead megaphone made real: the dumbest, most obnoxious guy in the entire room given the biggest platform. And our national experiment with putting a D-level cable-news pundit in charge of the nuclear arsenal went about as horribly as Saunders might have predicted.

But Saunders’s critique runs deeper than the insidious triviality and loudness of major TV news, both before and after 9/11. He’s making the case that forms of discourse actually shape our conceptual architecture, that the sophistication of our thinking is determined to a large degree by the sophistication of the language we hear used to describe our world.

This is, of course, not a new contention: the idea that dumb media make us all dumber echoes from the very first critiques of newspapers, pamphlets, and the tabloid press in America, in the late eighteenth century, to the 1961 speech by then Federal Communications Commission Chair Newt Minow, in which he told the National Broadcasters of America that, basically, their product sucked and that TV amounted to a “ vast wasteland .”

I thought, and many of us thought, that the Internet was going to solve this problem. The rise of the liberal blogs, during the run-up to Barack Obama’s election, brought us the headiest days of Internet Discourse Triumphalism. We were going to remake the world through radically democratized global conversations.

That’s not what happened. To oversimplify, here’s where we ended up. The Internet really did bring new voices into a national discourse that, for too long, had been controlled by far too narrow a group. But it did not return our democratic culture and modes of thinking to pre-TV logocentrism. The brief renaissance of long blog arguments was short-lived (and, honestly, it was a bit insufferable while it was happening). The writing got shorter and the images and video more plentiful until the Internet birthed a new form of discourse that was a combination of word and image: meme culture. A meme can be clever, even revelatory, but it is not discourse in the mode that Postman pined for.

As for the guy with the megaphone prattling on about the cheese cubes? Well, rather than take that one dumb guy’s megaphone away, we added a bunch of megaphones to the party. And guess what: that didn’t much improve things! Everyone had to shout to be heard, and the conversation morphed into a game of telephone, of everyone shouting variations of the same snippets of language, phrases, slogans—an endless, aural hall of mirrors. The effect is so disorienting that after a long period of scrolling through social media you’re likely to feel a profound sense of vertigo.

Not only that: the people screaming the loudest still get the most attention, partly because they stand out against the backdrop of a pendulating wall of sound that is now the room tone of our collective mental lives. Suffice it to say: the end result was not really a better party, nor the conversation of equals that many of us had hoped for.

Which, I think, brings us back to the fox ears.

The most radical change to our shared social lives isn’t who gets to speak, it’s what we can hear. True, everyone has access to their own little megaphone, and there is endless debate about whether that’s good or bad, but the vast majority of people aren’t reaching a huge audience. And yet at any single moment just about anyone with a smartphone has the ability to surveil millions of people across the globe.

The ability to surveil was, for years, almost exclusively the province of governments. In the legal tradition of the U.S., it was seen as an awesome power, one that was subject to constraints, such as warrants and due process (though often those constraints were more honored in the breach). And not only that, freedom from ubiquitous surveillance, we were taught in the West, was a defining feature of Free Society. In totalitarian states, someone or something was always listening, and the weight of that bore down on every moment of one’s life, suffocating the soul.

Well, guess what? We have now all been granted a power once reserved for totalitarian governments. A not particularly industrious fourteen-year-old can learn more about a person in a shorter amount of time than a team of K.G.B. agents could have done sixty years ago. The teen could see who you know, where you’ve been, which TV shows you like and don’t like; the gossip that you pass along and your political opinions and bad jokes and feuds; your pets’ names, your cousins’ faces, and your crushes and their favorite haunts. With a bit more work, that teen could get your home address and your current employer. But it’s the ability to access the texture of everyday life that makes this power so awesome. It’s possible to get inside the head of just about anyone who has a presence on the social Web, because chances are they are broadcasting their emotional states in real time to the entire world.

So total is the public presence of our private lives that even those whose jobs depend on total privacy cannot escape its reach. The open-source intelligence outfit Bellingcat has used this fact to track down a wide array of global malefactors, including the two Russian agents who appear to have poisoned a Russian defector in the U.K., Sergei Skripal, with a nerve agent, in 2018. Bellingcat was able to identify both men through data it purchased on the gray market, obtaining their aliases and photos of each. But the breakthrough came when it was discovered that one suspect had attended the wedding of the daughter of their G.R.U. unit’s commander. In a video—posted on Instagram, of course—the commander walks his daughter down the aisle on a lovely dock, to the sounds of a bossa nova cover of “Every Breath You Take.”

The young couple didn’t just post clips of their wedding (which was gorgeous, by the way) to Instagram. They also uploaded a highly stylized video, set to upbeat music, that shows them in bathrobes getting ready for the ceremony as well as the big moments of the wedding itself. To establish the suspect’s attendance at the ceremony, Bellingcat scanned other posted snapshots of the wedding and compared them with images in the video. Sure enough, the identity of the man in question, Anatoliy Chepiga, matched that of the alias he’d used to travel to the U.K. for the attempted murder.

Bellingcat published its findings, and, presumably, a whole host of Russian military and intelligence officials—maybe all the way up the chain to Vladimir Putin—realized that the utterly innocuous social media posts of a happy young couple had tripped off the identification of someone indicted for attempted murder and wanted by the British authorities.

This is an extreme example of a common phenomenon. Someone happens upon a social-media artifact of a person with a tiny number of followers and sends it shooting like a firework into the Internet, where it very briefly burns white-hot in infamy. There are some who find the sudden attention thrilling and addictive: this will be their first taste of a peculiar experience they then crave and chase. And there are others, like our newlyweds, who very much do not want the attention. They belatedly try to delete the post or make it “private,” but by then it’s too late for privacy. A message they intended for friends and family, people they have relationships with, ended up in the hands of strangers, people who don’t know them at all.

Never before in history have so many people been under the gaze of so many strangers. Humans evolved in small groups, defined by kinship: those we knew, knew us. And our imaginative capabilities allowed us to know strangers—kings and queens, heroes of legend, gods above—all manner of at least partly mythic personalities to whom we may have felt as intimately close to as kin. For the vast majority of our species’ history, those were the two principal categories of human relations: kin and gods. Those we know who know us, grounded in mutual social interaction, and those we know who don’t know us, grounded in our imaginative powers.

But now consider a third category: people we don’t know and who somehow know us . They pop up in mentions, comments, and replies; on subreddits, message boards, or dating apps. Most times, it doesn’t even seem noteworthy: you look down at your phone and there’s a notification that someone you don’t know has liked a post. You might feel a little squirt of endorphin in the brain, an extremely faint sense of achievement. Yet each instance of it represents something new as a common human experience, for their attention renders us tiny gods. The Era of Mass Fame is upon us.

If we define fame as being known to many people one doesn’t know, then it is an experience as old as human civilization. Stretching back to the first written epic, Gilgamesh (whose protagonist was, in fact, an actual king), history, particularly as it is traditionally taught, is composed almost entirely of the exploits of the famous: Nefertiti, Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Muhammad, and Joan of Arc.

But as the critic Leo Braudy notes, in his 1987 study, “The Frenzy of Renown,” “As each new medium of fame appears, the human image it conveys is intensified and the number of individuals celebrated expands.” Industrial technology—newspapers and telegraphs, followed by radio, film, and TV—created an ever-larger category of people who might be known by millions the world over: politicians, film stars, singers, authors. This category was orders of magnitude larger than it had been in the pre-industrial age, but still a nearly infinitesimal portion of the population at large.

All that has changed in the past decade. In the same way that electricity went from a luxury enjoyed by the American élite to something just about everyone had, so, too, has fame, or at least being known by strangers, gone from a novelty to a core human experience. The Western intellectual tradition spent millennia maintaining a conceptual boundary between public and private—embedding it in law and politics, norms and etiquette, theorizing and reinscribing it. With the help of a few tech firms, we basically tore it down in about a decade.

That’s not to say the experience of being known, paid attention to, commented on by strangers, is in any sense universal. It’s still foreign to most people, online and off. But now the possibility of it haunts online life, which increasingly is just life. The previous limiting conditions on what’s private and what’s public, on who can know you, have been lifted. In the case of our young Russian lovebirds, one might safely assume that, until Bellingcat started snooping around their wedding videos, they had been spared the experience of the sudden burst of Internet fame. But, like them, just about everyone is always dancing at the edge of that cliff, oblivious or not.

This has been entirely internalized by the generation who’ve come of age with social media. A clever TikTok video can end up with forty million views. With the possibility of this level of exposure so proximate, it’s not surprising that poll after poll over the past decade indicates that fame is increasingly a prime objective of people twenty-five and younger. Fame itself, in the older, more enduring sense of the term, is still elusive, but the possibility of a brush with it functions as a kind of pyramid scheme.

This, perhaps, is the most obviously pernicious part of the expansion of celebrity: ever since there have been famous people, there have been people driven mad by fame. In the modern era, it’s a cliché: the rock star, comedian, or starlet who succumbs to addiction, alienation, depression, and self-destruction under the glare of the spotlight. Being known by strangers, and, even more dangerously, seeking their approval, is an existential trap. And right now, the condition of contemporary life is to shepherd entire generations into this spiritual quicksand.

As I’ve tried to answer the question of why we seek out the likes and replies and approval of strangers, and why this so often drives both ordinary and celebrated people toward breakdowns, I’ve found myself returning to the work of a Russian émigré philosopher named Alexandre Kojève, whose writing I first encountered as an undergraduate. In 1933, Kojève took over the teaching of a seminar on Hegel at the École Pratique des Hautes Études, in Paris. Though Kojève would live his life in relative obscurity, ultimately becoming a civil servant in the French trade ministry and helping to construct the architecture for a common Europe, his seminar on Hegel’s “Phenomenology of Spirit” was almost certainly the most influential philosophy class of the twentieth century. A Who’s Who of Continental thinkers, from Sartre to Lacan, passed through, and Kojève’s grand intellectual synthesis would deeply influence their work.

In his lectures, Kojève takes up Hegel’s famous meditation on the master-slave relationship, recasting it in terms of what Kojève sees as the fundamental human drive: the desire for recognition—to be seen, in other words, as human by other humans. “Man can appear on earth only within a herd,” Kojve writes. “That is why the human reality can only be social.”

Understanding the centrality of the desire for recognition is quite helpful in understanding the power and ubiquity of social media. We have developed a technology that can create a synthetic version of our most fundamental desire. Why did the Russian couple post those wedding photos? Why do any of us post anything? Because we want other humans to see us, to recognize us.

But We Who Post are trapped in the same paradox that Kojève identifies in Hegel’s treatment of the Master and Slave. The Master desires recognition from the Slave, but because he does not recognize the Slave’s humanity, he cannot actually have it. “And this is what is insufficient—what is tragic—in his situation,” Kojève writes. “For he can be satisfied only by recognition from one whom he recognizes as worthy of recognizing him.”

I’ve found that this simple formulation unlocks a lot about our current situation. It articulates the paradox of what we might call not the Master and the Slave but, rather, the Star and the Fan. The Star seeks recognition from the Fan, but the Fan is a stranger, who cannot be known by the Star. Because the Star cannot recognize the Fan, the Fan’s recognition of the Star doesn’t satisfy the core existential desire. There is no way to bridge the inherent asymmetry of the relationship, short of actual friendship and correspondence, but that, of course, cannot be undertaken at the same scale. And so the Star seeks recognition and gets, instead, attention.

The Star and the Fan are prototypes, and the Internet allows us to be both in different contexts. In fact this is the core, transformative innovation of social media, the ability to be both at once. You can interact with strangers, not just view them from afar, and they can interact with you. Those of us who have a degree of fame have experienced the lack of mutuality in these relationships quite acutely: the strangeness of encountering a person who knows you, who sees you, whom you cannot see in the same way.

We are conditioned to care about kin, to take life’s meaning from the relationships with those we know and love. But the psychological experience of fame, like a virus invading a cell, takes all of the mechanisms for human relations and puts them to work seeking more fame. In fact, this fundamental paradox—the pursuit through fame of a thing that fame cannot provide—is more or less the story of Donald Trump’s life: wanting recognition, instead getting attention, and then becoming addicted to attention itself, because he can’t quite understand the difference, even though deep in his psyche there’s a howling vortex that fame can never fill.

This is why famous people as a rule are obsessed with what people say about them and stew and rage and rant about it. I can tell you that a thousand kind words from strangers will bounce off you, while a single harsh criticism will linger. And, if you pay attention, you’ll find all kinds of people—but particularly, quite often, famous people—having public fits on social media, at any time of the day or night. You might find Kevin Durant, one of the greatest basketball players on the planet, possibly in the history of the game—a multimillionaire who is better at the thing he does than almost any other person will ever be at anything—in the D.M.s of some twentysomething fan who’s talking trash about his free-agency decisions. Not just once—routinely! And he’s not the only one at all.

There’s no reason, really, for anyone to care about the inner turmoil of the famous. But I’ve come to believe that, in the Internet age, the psychologically destabilizing experience of fame is coming for everyone. Everyone is losing their minds online because the combination of mass fame and mass surveillance increasingly channels our most basic impulses—toward loving and being loved, caring for and being cared for, getting the people we know to laugh at our jokes—into the project of impressing strangers, a project that cannot, by definition, sate our desires but feels close enough to real human connection that we cannot but pursue it in ever more compulsive ways.

So here we are, our chins pressed into the metal holster between the fennec-fox ears, the constant flitting words and images of strangers entering our sensory system, offering our poor desiring beings an endless temptation—a power we should not have and that cannot make us whole.

An earlier version of this article misspelled Newt Minow’s name and incorrectly described the substance involved in the poisoning of Sergei Skripal.

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7 Celebrity-Written Essays That Are Worthy To Read

Every so often, an artist switches genres. A rock star becomes a country singer, a jazz singer becomes a hip-hop artist. Then there are times when they switch crafts altogether. A pop star becomes an actor. An actress becomes a painter. And, sometimes, a celebrity picks up the pen and becomes a writer.

Though writing is a serious craft and not something to be taken lightly, and certainly not something honed overnight, there are some celebrities who manage to capture an idea and paint an image with words in the same way they light up the screen when on camera. When they get it wrong, they may get it horribly wrong, but, on occasion, celebrities have written some things that are actually worth reading.

Here are my top 7 celebrity essays:

Remembering Marlon Brando – Jack Nicholson

Sometimes it’s the passing of a celebrity that inspires another one to pick up the pen. In Jack Nicholson’s tribute Remembering Marlon Brando to his friend and colleague Marlon Brando in “Rolling Stone Magazine” in 2004, he reminisces about the first time he saw Brando pulling up on the MGM lot, their years as neighbors in Los Angeles, the pranks that Brando used to pull on him and his deep appreciation for Brando’s genius. Nicholson’s tribute lets the light shine through the guarded image of two of Hollywood’s macho men.

Matt Damon’s Marathon – Matt Damon

Did anyone know that Boston-born actor Matt Damon was a Boston Marathon fan? With his father, uncle, brother and nephews having taken on the challenge, Damon’s essay titled “Matt Damon’s Marathon” published in the Boston Globe recounts the actor’s nostalgia for the event’s earlier days. You can practically see the actor cheering on his father as he makes his way over the course when he describes his father’s running strategy, blow by blow.

At the famous Heartbreak Hill, he explains that “At this junction, in particular, a palpable bond exists between audience and athlete, forming a distinctive stew of sympathy and suffering that has lasting effects for both parties.” He also eulogizes some of the changes that have occurred, namely the focus on charity and fund-raising that the event has come to represent. Damon’s essay came out just a week before the tragic bombing that killed several participants and fans.

A Mother’s Prayer for Her Daughter – Tina Fey

An excerpt from comedic actress Tina Fey’s book “Bossypants” went viral on the internet. The excerpt titled “A Mother’s Prayer for Her Daughter” is poignantly humorous as it lists the myriad of modern frustrations and humiliations she would like both her and her daughter to be spared: “First Lord: No tattoos. May neither Chinese symbol for truth nor Winnie-the Pooh holding the FSU logo stain her tender haunches” and “Lead her away from Acting but not all the way to Finance.” Fey combines her comedic flair with the poignancy of motherhood in this hilarious piece. Its popularity shows that her prayer echoes that of many a mother of young girls.

My Medical Choice – Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie’s high-profile essay, “My Medical Choice” , published in the New York Times about her preventative double mastectomy has been lauded by the medical community for its role in encouraging women to get breast cancer exams. Jolie’s choice to make public this intimate information carries extra weight because of her role as a celebrity and a symbol of feminine beauty which has made her famous.

In her essay, she describes the rare gene BRCA1 that caused the death of her mother and which she inherited. Jolie’s doctors estimated that her chance of getting breast cancer was as high as 87 percent. Her reason for publishing the essay was so that other women could be aware of the gene and its risks and get tested before it was too late.

The Death of My Father – Steve Martin

Comedic actor Steve Martin who has published several essays in “The New Yorker” and a collection of essays in the book “Pure Drivel” wrote a very personal essay in 2002 titled “The Death of My Father” . In it, he digs through his childhood and his relationships with his mother and sister as well as the strained relationship with his father to find the threads that tie them together.

He recounts his father’s sometimes stinging criticism of his career and his difficulty in accepting his son’s comedic antics. Finally, he narrates the last days of his father’s life and the final words and reconciliations they exchanged. It’s a beautiful piece that serves to remind its readers of the importance of forgiveness.

The Meaning of the Selfie – James Franco

Actor James Franco dishes his philosophical take on selfie-culture in his widely-read article titled “The Meanings of the Selfie” in the New York Times. Franco is a frequent contributer to the “New York Times” and the “Huffington Post”. Often criticized for posting excessive selfies and called “The Selfie King” Franco has written an essay that is part humor/part sociology. He dissects the meaning of the selfie in our technological age: “We all have reasons for posting them, but in the end, selfies are avatars: Mini-Me’s that we send out to give others a sense of who we are.”

Open Letter to Miley Cyrus – Sinead O’Conner

Sometimes a celebrity feels called upon to offer guidance to an ingenue. Sinead O’Conner’s open letter to pop star Miley Cyrus printed in “The Guardian” in 2013 addresses the issue of sexism in the music industry. O’Conner was prompted to write the letter in response to Cyrus’ claim that her controversial and highly sexualized video for the song “Wrecking Ball” was inspired by O’Conner’s 1990 music video for the song “Nothing Compares 2 U”. O’Conner calls out the differences in the way she carefully crafted her image to avoid exploitation and warns the young star of the dangers of selling your body which often leads to selling out your talent.

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Celebrities as Essayists: Insights into Their Thought-Provoking Personal Essays

In recent years, a fascinating literary phenomenon has emerged – the rise of celebrity essayists. These are well-known individuals from the worlds of entertainment, sports, politics, and various other fields who have ventured into the realm of personal essay writing. A celebrity essayist can be defined as a prominent figure who uses their public platform to share introspective, thought-provoking, and often deeply personal essays on a wide range of topics. These essays delve into their experiences, beliefs, and emotions, providing readers with a unique and often intimate glimpse into the minds and lives of these renowned individuals.

The popularity of celebrities writing personal essays has grown exponentially in recent years. Exploring personal essays, we dive into how these public figures use their narratives to connect with audiences, examining their impact on public discourse, while also reflecting on the best dissertation writing services for a comprehensive analysis of this literary phenomenon. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, including the democratization of publishing through digital platforms and social media. In the past, celebrities may have been limited to expressing themselves through interviews or autobiographies, but now they have the means to directly connect with their audience through essays posted on blogs, websites, and social media platforms. This newfound accessibility has allowed fans and the general public to engage with celebrities on a deeper level, forging a stronger emotional connection and fostering a sense of relatability.

The Rise of Celebrity Essayists

To truly appreciate the emergence of celebrity essayists, it’s essential to examine the historical context. While the term “celebrity essayist” may be relatively new, the concept of public figures sharing personal thoughts and experiences has roots in the literary and journalistic traditions of the past. Renowned authors like Virginia Woolf, George Orwell, and Joan Didion, for instance, were celebrated for their essays on a wide range of subjects, which sometimes included personal reflections and narratives. However, the modern manifestation of celebrity essayists differs in that it often combines the personal with the public, leveraging the celebrity’s existing fame to reach a broader audience.

The digital age, characterized by the rise of social media and easily accessible digital publishing platforms, has played a pivotal role in the proliferation of celebrity essayists. Celebrities can now reach their audience directly through platforms like Twitter, Instagram, personal blogs, and online magazines, eliminating the need for traditional publishers as intermediaries. This shift has democratized content creation, allowing celebrities to share their thoughts and stories instantly and without censorship, thus forging a deeper connection with their audience.

The landscape of celebrity essayists is vast and diverse, encompassing figures from various fields and backgrounds. Some notable examples include:

• Roxane Gay: A renowned author and cultural critic, Roxane Gay has penned powerful research papers on topics ranging from feminism and race to body image and trauma. Her collection “Bad Feminist” received critical acclaim and helped redefine contemporary feminist discourse.
• Ta-Nehisi Coates: Known for his eloquent essays on race, identity, and American history, Coates gained prominence with works like “Between the World and Me” and “The Case for Reparations.” His essays have provoked essential conversations about systemic racism in the United States.
• Lena Dunham: The creator and star of the HBO series “Girls,” Dunham has also made a name for herself as a celebrity essayist. Her collection “Not That Kind of Girl” candidly explores her experiences with mental health, relationships, and feminism.
• Michelle Obama: The former First Lady of the United States published her memoir, “Becoming,” which combines personal storytelling with reflections on leadership, family, and social justice. It became a bestseller and resonated with a global audience.

These examples illustrate the diversity of voices and topics found among celebrity essayists, demonstrating how they can harness their platform to engage in meaningful discussions and share their unique perspectives with the world.

The Appeal of Celebrity Personal Essays

One of the most significant factors contributing to the appeal of celebrity personal essays is the strong connection between the celebrities and their audience. Unlike traditional literary figures, celebrities already have a built-in fan base, often spanning across demographics. When these well-known individuals share their personal stories, struggles, and triumphs, it fosters a sense of intimacy and relatability with their audience. Readers feel like they are getting to know the person behind the fame, deepening their emotional attachment and investment.

Authenticity and vulnerability are central elements that make celebrity-authored personal essays compelling. In a world where public personas are carefully curated, these essays offer a rare glimpse into the unfiltered thoughts and emotions of celebrities. The willingness to expose vulnerabilities, share personal challenges, and discuss sensitive topics can be inspiring and empowering for readers who may be facing similar struggles. This authenticity humanizes celebrities, making them more relatable and demonstrating that they, too, grapple with universal human experiences.

Celebrity essayists cover an extensive range of topics, reflecting their multifaceted lives and interests. These essays can touch on themes such as mental health, identity, family, career, social justice, and activism. The diversity of topics covered not only reflects the complexity of the celebrity’s life but also provides a platform for important social and cultural discussions. It allows readers to gain insights into issues they may not have considered otherwise and encourages dialogue on matters of significance.

Overall, the appeal of celebrity personal essays lies in their ability to transcend the boundaries of fame, providing readers with authentic, relatable narratives that offer a window into the human condition and the myriad of experiences that connect us all.

The Impact of Celebrity Essays

Celebrity-authored essays have a profound impact on public discourse and awareness. These essays often deal with critical issues, whether they relate to social justice, mental health, environmental concerns, or personal experiences. The influence of celebrities means that their essays can reach a wide and diverse audience, far beyond the traditional readership of literary works. This increased reach leads to greater awareness of the issues they discuss. Celebrities who use their platforms to address social, political, or environmental concerns can spark conversations and mobilize their fans and followers to take action.

For example, when a celebrity writes about their experiences with mental health challenges, it not only reduces the stigma surrounding mental health but also encourages others to seek help and support. Similarly, essays on topics like climate change or racial inequality can elevate these issues in public discourse and prompt discussions and policy changes on a broader scale.

Celebrity essays have the power to challenge and change perceptions and stereotypes.

Celebrities often find themselves confined to certain public images or stereotypes, but when they share personal stories and experiences, it can shatter preconceived notions and reveal the complexity of their identities. This personal revelation can extend to broader issues as well.

For instance, when a famous athlete writes about their struggles with their sexuality, it can challenge stereotypes about masculinity and sports. When a Hollywood star discusses their immigrant background and the challenges they faced, it can humanize and destigmatize the immigrant experience. By sharing their own journeys, celebrities can be instrumental in fostering empathy and understanding among their fans and the public at large.

While celebrity essayists wield significant influence, they are not without their challenges and criticisms. Some common criticisms include:

• Privilege and Disconnect: Critics argue that celebrities often live privileged lives, making it difficult for them to fully understand or represent the struggles of the average person. This perceived disconnect can lead to accusations of insincerity or opportunism.
• Overshadowing Marginalized Voices: There’s a concern that celebrity essayists can overshadow the voices of marginalized individuals who have been advocating for the same issues without the same level of attention or platform. It’s important to acknowledge and elevate the voices of those who have been working in the trenches for social change.
• Superficiality: Some critics argue that celebrity essays can sometimes be superficial or lack depth, as celebrities may not have the same level of expertise or experience as professional writers or activists. This can lead to shallowness in the discussions they provoke.
• Commercialization: There’s a risk that some celebrity essays may be perceived as commercial endeavors rather than genuine attempts to contribute to important conversations. The commodification of personal stories can undermine the authenticity of the message.

Despite these challenges and criticisms, it’s important to recognize that celebrity essays can still make meaningful contributions to public discourse and raise awareness of vital issues. When done thoughtfully and with genuine intent, they can be a force for positive change.

The Future of Celebrity Essayists

The future of celebrity essayists is likely to witness several trends. First, we can expect an even greater integration of multimedia elements into their essays, including videos, podcasts, and interactive content. This will enhance the accessibility and engagement of their narratives.

Additionally, celebrity essayists may increasingly explore niche and specialized topics, reflecting the diverse interests and passions of celebrities. These essays may delve deeper into specific areas such as environmental conservation, mental health advocacy, or cultural commentary.

The influence of celebrity essayists on the literary world is poised to grow. We may see more celebrities venturing into traditional publishing, with books that compile their essays or explore in-depth themes. These literary endeavors could blur the lines between celebrity memoirs and personal essays, creating a hybrid genre that appeals to a broad readership.

Furthermore, the success of celebrity essayists may inspire more individuals from various backgrounds to share their personal narratives, contributing to a richer and more diverse literary landscape.

Celebrities are likely to continue evolving in their roles as influencers and shapers of public discourse. They may become more active in advocacy, leveraging their platforms to drive social and political change. Their essays will play a pivotal role in this, as they provide a means of conveying complex ideas and experiences to a broad audience.

Additionally, the line between celebrities and experts may blur further, with some celebrities gaining recognition as thought leaders in specific fields. This evolution could lead to collaborations between celebrities and academics, activists, and experts, fostering a more informed and impactful approach to addressing pressing societal issues.

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Heroes and Celebrities Definition Essay

Heroes and celebrities contribute to the development of the society. Additionally, they are active in helping people discover their roles. LaBarge indicates that “If we most of us, as Thoreau said, live lives of quiet desperation, it is because our horizons of possibility are too cramped” (LaBarge, 2010).

This is an indicator that heroes are instrumental in shaping and rebuilding destroyed livelihoods. It is imperative for the society to adopt the ideas suggested by heroes in a cautious manner. This means that societal members have to neglect non-beneficial and inappropriate concepts.

Authors and scholars define the word celebrity basing on their surroundings and ideas. Jaffe (2005) indicates that a celebrity “is not merely a commodity or status, but an intricate system through which meaning is made and social relations constituted”. Additional scholars indicate that a celebrity is a person with an outstanding personality profile as seen in career and social processes.

Concurrently, a hero means “an individual who posses distinguished bravery in danger, or determination in suffering” (Jaffe, 2005). It is notable that heroes are famous as seen in their exemplary actions that affect the society positively. Eventually, they leave outstanding legacies that make people remember them.

Even though, celebrities and heroes are not defined in a similar manner, several aspects characterize both parties. For example, celebrities and heroes are famous. Furthermore, they attract masses regardless of the strategies, which they utilize to influence the society. Indeed, both categories have the power to influence the society through their supremacy as evident when they attract people within a setting. Eventually, the community may choose to imitate them.

The status associated with celebrities and heroes is different. Allison & Geothals (2010) indicate that, while a celebrity focuses on drawing attention to activities that characterize his nature and individuality, a hero is goal driven since he focuses on alleviating the conditions within the society. These actions are initiated with the intention of remaining relevant within the communal setting. The table below illustrates the distinctions between the two entities.

There are diverse categories of heroes in the contemporary society. An example is Raoul Wallenberg, a Swedish businessperson who rescued numerous Jews. This happened in Hungary, which was occupied by the Nazi from the Holocaust. This was apparent during the final stages of the combat. In addition, Juana Galan was a heroin since she liberated her communes in the peninsular combat. Interestingly, heroes influence the lives of the community around them making people dependent on them.

It is risky to follow the actions of heroes since they are based on personal judgment. Significant proportions of heroes influence the society negatively. Evidently, this is divergent from people’s expectations. A celebrity faces numerous challenges since he is dependent on the support of the masses to maintain his stature. Scholars indicate that several celebrities influence the community in a negative way since they employ unorthodox techniques to attract people. This necessitates caution and adherence to statutes.

Heroes influence the society in a significant manner. Several scholars indicate that their work is not restricted to the instantaneous significance of their actions. In a planet, where materialism and cynicism persists, heroes use their expertise to address gaps by coming up with useful ideas. They often influence people to lead a fulfilling life and address the needs of needy persons (Goldman, 2011). This makes people think about their misgivings.

Eventually, they develop meaningful thoughts that are beneficial to other people. Additionally, heroes appeal to individuals making them adopt diverse ideologies that will improve their standing within the society. As a result, heroism takes the form of an external force, which changes someone infinitely. “Just as, heroes have always existed, there is a need for more heroes” (Goldman, 2011).

Heroes and celebrity multiply as different styles and fashions emerge. With the diversity of religion and perception of life, many celebrities decided to form a ritual group that followed specific guidelines. This is the “cult of celebrity” (Goldman, 2011). It became a well-known social phenomenon in the final years of the 20 th century.

It embraced the celebrities’ livelihood such as idolatry. Furthermore, the entertainment industry including the reality television and the talent show are the definitive facets of the cult. Because of the cult, religion lost its influence on morality since many people focused on entertainment (Congress, 2003).

Heroes are important since they shape cultural processes. It is worth mentioning that celebrities influence people positively. However, this is limited to the communal aspects, which are appealing. In order for a community to gain from heroes and celebrities, the members ought to learn through restraint rather than fame. This calls for appropriate judgment and decisions that will improve the livelihoods of persons in the society.

Allison, S., & Geothals, G. (2010 ). Heroes: what they do and why we need them . Virginia: oxford university press.

Congress. (2003). Congressional Record, Volumes 109-122; Volumes 1963-1966 . Washington, DC: United States Government Printing Office.

Goldman, J. (2011). Modernism Is the Literature of Celebrity. Austin: University of Texas Press.

Jaffe, A. (2005). Modernism and the culture of celebrity, volume 13. New York, NY: Cambridge University Press.

LaBarge, S. (2010). Heroism: Why Heroes are Important . Web.

• Chicago (A-D)
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IvyPanda. (2023, November 1). Heroes and Celebrities. https://ivypanda.com/essays/heroes-and-celebrities/

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IvyPanda . 2023. "Heroes and Celebrities." November 1, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/heroes-and-celebrities/.

1. IvyPanda . "Heroes and Celebrities." November 1, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/heroes-and-celebrities/.

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IvyPanda . "Heroes and Celebrities." November 1, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/heroes-and-celebrities/.

• Cult Leaders Characteristics
• Hero in Modern Society
• Cult and Religion Differences
• The Rajneesh Cult: Concepts and Influences
• America Does Not Celebrate Its Real Heroes
• Celebrities and their Effects on the American Society
• How Do Celebrities Influence Society? Celebrity Culture Positive Effects
• How Cult Leaders Get and retain Followers
• Whether or not Celebrities Have a Right to a Private Life
• Celebrity Expression of Cultural Themes and Issues
• Advocacy: Action, Change and Commitment
• Concept of Diversity in Workplace
• "Hope of Children" Charity Organization Operations
• Exploring the Topic of Class and Its Impact on Dreams Achievement
• Children's Socialization

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• How Celebrities Influence Teens and Why it Matters

• Empowering Teens

For better or worse, celebrities have a powerful impact on how teens view themselves and how they see the world. In fact, it’s easy to underestimate how much celebrities influence teenage attitudes and behavior.

Celebrities can have a positive influence on youth. In fact, they can serve as role models. But famous people, whether they’re singers, actors, and other celebrities, can also provide unhealthy examples. In particular, celebrity influence on body image and substance use is often detrimental to teen mental state. This has led to an unprecedented need for adolescent mental health treatment across the country.

Teenagers need guidance on how to interpret celebrities’ influence. Adults can engage with kids around media. In addition, they, therefore, support how children process what they’re seeing and hearing. Moreover, parents and teachers can use celebrities’ stories as entry points into important discussions about health and personal choices.

The Impact of Media on Teen Body Image

Research shows that teen body image is shaped by many factors. These include friends and family, where the teen lives, and their cultural background. However, celebrity images have a profound impact on teen body image.

The Today Show and aol.com collaborated on the “Ideal to Real” body image survey . As a result, the survey found that 80 percent of teen girls compare themselves to images they see of celebrities. Moreover, among those girls, almost half said that celebrity images make them feel dissatisfied with the way they look.

Therefore, appearance is among teenagers’ top concerns, teen girls in particular. In her book  Think: Straight Talk for Women to Stay Smart in a Dumbed-Down World , author Lisa Bloom reveals that 25 percent of young adult women in the US would rather win America’s Next Top Model than the Nobel Peace Prize.

How Celebrities Influence Teen Eating Disorders

Why does celebrity influence on teen body image matter? Because body dissatisfaction is linked to mental health challenges, including eating disorders, depression , anxiety , and low self-esteem. Studies find that young women who consume media with many images of an unrealistic “thin ideal” are more likely to exhibit symptoms of disordered eating . In addition, the Girl Scouts Research Institute found that nearly half of girls ages 13 to 17 wish they were as skinny as the models in fashion magazines.

Celebrity influencers play into this trend when they document their extreme diets or use language that can be triggering for those with eating disorders—such as when the entertainer Kim Kardashian recently expressed gratitude for being told she “looks anorexic.” News outlets covered a conversation between the Kardashians and the backlash it spawned. When celebrities minimize the severity of eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, or endorse taking unhealthy products to suppress appetite, they are emulating dysfunction.

Furthermore, for celebrities that are as exploited for their physical bodies as often as the Kardashian family is, they are shirking an opportunity to reframe the narrative around healthy weight. Hence, teens are told that looking skinny defines your worth. This messaging is superficial, heartbreaking for many, and can be deadly for those who suffer with life-threatening eating disorders.

And it’s not just teen girls who are affected. Research shows that young men also experience body dissatisfaction and depression as a result of viewing media images. And this body dissatisfaction can lead to unhealthy, excessive exercising among male teens.

Positive Celebrity Influence on Teen Body Image

However, some celebrities influence the body-image discussion for the better. For example, the singer Lorde called out a Photoshopped image of herself on Twitter. She noted that one photo showed her with “perfect” skin while the other was real. “Remember, flaws are ok,” she tweeted.

Other celebrities, including Rihanna, Beyoncé, Melissa McCarthy, and Jennifer Lawrence have spoken out against the ideals of beauty promoted by the entertainment and fashion industries.

“You shouldn’t be pressured into trying to be thin by the fashion industry, because they only want models that are like human mannequins. You have to remember that it’s not practical or possible for an everyday woman to look like that. It’s not realistic and it’s not healthy.” —Rihanna

Substance Use and Celebrity Influence s

Celebrities influence teens in other ways as well. When stars post images of themselves drinking or smoking on social media, they normalize substance use. Furthermore, they make it appear attractive and cool. This is one way that social media can have a negative impact on teen mental health .

Moreover, teens often idolize celebrities and want to be like them. Therefore, if they see images on Instagram of a favorite singer or actor using drugs or drinking, they might be tempted to do so as well.

For example, a University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine study looked at teenagers who frequently listen to music that contains references to marijuana. Subsequently, they found that these teens are more likely to use the drug than teens with less exposure to such lyrics.

In addition, for every hour that American teens listen to music, they hear more than three references to different brand names of alcohol. Researchers say that this might contribute to teen drinking. In addition, researchers at Dartmouth Medical School found that movie characters who smoke cigarettes influence teens to try smoking. Therefore, media influence on youth can contribute to risk-taking behaviors.

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Celebrities Can Raise Awareness and Reduce Stigma

Many celebrities are open about their struggles with addiction and mental health. As a result, they help to reduce stigma and raise awareness. For example, before reportedly entering rehab after an apparent drug overdose earlier this summer, Demi Lovato released a song about relapse, titled “Sober.” Consequently, the song inspired young people nationwide to open up about their substance abuse and mental health challenges.

Lovato has struggled for years with drug abuse, alcoholism, depression, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders . While her recovery continues, her song helped increase understanding around relapse and addiction. For many people, relapse is part of the recovery journey. Furthermore, it provides an opportunity to address the underlying issues and build better coping strategies.

In addition, pop star singer Ariana Grande has been frank about her battle with PTSD and anxiety following a bombing at a concert venue while she was performing. Moreover, the model Bella Hadid has shared about her social anxiety. And England’s Prince Harry has spoken publicly about the trauma of losing his mother, Princess Diana. Subsequently, he and Prince William formed the Heads Together initiative . The project tackles stigma, raises awareness, and provides help for people with mental health challenges.

These are just a few of the many celebrities who have shared their struggles with the world. As a result, celebrities influence the public’s understanding of these issues.

How to Talk to Teens About Celebrity Influence

How does media influence teens? Because pop culture plays such a big role in teens’ lives, celebrities influence the way teens think and what they talk about. Therefore, parents can use celebrities’ experiences as avenues for talking about sensitive subjects.

Thus, celebrity anorexia cases offer opportunities to talk to teens about how dangerous the “thin ideal” can be. And they can discuss healthy ways to stay fit and eat well. Moreover, stars who speak out about coping with mental illnesses demonstrate that people with such diagnoses can be successful and happy.

Parents might ask teens what they admire about the stars they follow. What qualities do they want to emulate? Perhaps creativity, passion, or dedication? What can they learn from the lives of celebrities who have struggled with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or substance use?

Some teens are upset when they find out about a celebrity’s struggles. Therefore, parents can offer a different viewpoint: Stars who share their stories are examples of courage, honesty, and authenticity. Moreover, their vulnerability makes them stronger. And they often receive tremendous support and love after opening up. In this way, they serve as role models for youth.

However, some celebrities are unable to overcome mental health conditions. The deaths this year of designer Kate Spade and television personality Anthony Bourdain brought renewed attention to mental illness and suicide . Therefore, the message for teens is that people who are suffering must seek professional treatment as soon as possible.

In conclusion, celebrities are really people. Thus, they experience real struggles. But because they are in the public eye, teens have the opportunity to learn from them. And parents can help them sort through the information and take away a healthy message.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrities have a powerful impact on how teens view themselves and how they see the world.
• A survey found that 80 percent of teen girls compare themselves to images they see of celebrities. Almost half of those reported that celebrity images make them feel dissatisfied with the way they look.
• Growing numbers of celebrities are speaking out against the ideals of beauty promoted by the entertainment and fashion industries. Many celebrities are open about their struggles with addiction and mental health. As a result, they help to reduce stigma and raise awareness.
• Celebrities are real people with real struggles. Teens can learn from their experiences, including when and how to seek help.

Frequently Asked Questions About Celebrity Influence

Celebrities can be good or bad role models for teens. Celebrities glamorize unhealthy fads and behaviors and encourage unrealistic body image standards. On the other hand, some celebrities choose to use their status to counteract harmful cultural messages, by reducing stigma around a particular issue or speaking out honestly about their own struggles.

Teens are in the process of determining their own values, beliefs and goals independent of their parents. It’s natural for teens to look up to celebrities, and celebrities who use their status responsibly can help shape the course of a teen’s life for the better.

Absolutely. Celebrities can inspire a young person to achieve goals beyond what they observe in their immediate community. They can motivate teens to engage with community causes and live a healthy lifestyle. Their impact is not limited to success stories. Celebrities can also be role models for how to get help for mental health issues or substance use disorder.

The best role model for a teen is someone with a passion for what they do, solid values, and the ability to inspire others. Any person who can connect with a teen in these ways can be a role model—whether it’s a parent, a coach, a neighbor, or a distant celebrity.

Pediatrics. 2016 Jul;138(1).  J Applied Business Research. 2013 Jan; 29(1):45–50. Psychol Bull. 2008 May;134(3):460–76. J Abnormal Psychol. 103: 836–840.  Cogent Social Sci. 2016; 2(1). J Soc Clin Psychol. 2008 Mar; 27(3): 279–310. Pediatrics. 2009 Jul; 124(1): 135–143. Addiction. 2010 Mar; 105(3): 515–523. Addiction. 2012 Mar;107(3):557–66. 

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Chapter 4: Convincing Discourses

4.2.4 Celebrity politics (research essay)

Thomas Lundin

English 102, November 2020

In the modern age of technology and social media news can travel across the country in   a   matter of minutes. There is so much information and so many problems that are discussed or   become known   every day   that it is hard for people to figure out what is most important. Celebrities have not only capitalized on this mass of information but also helped to create an agenda in the mess by talking about the most important issues to them. In the past there was a stigma when it came to many celebrities and what they could really bring to the table of politics. There is still some today with them not being taken seriously but they have been changing it especially with them going above and beyond to help. For the most part though celebrities today are the decision makers. Today’s celebrities set the agenda and can achieve much more than a regular person or politicians due to their outreach and ability to attract a wide variety of people. They have become more and more vocal when it comes to specific issues that are most important to them or they are most interested in even if it has never affected them before. Many of these celebrities know the immense privilege that comes from their   fame   and it is   important   to many of them to give back. In today’s world though it is not a donation, it is political action. These celebrities have created a new type of politics that is changing the political field and how politicians need to be like to win and gain the support of their constituents.  

Celebrity politics is a new idea that is only recently seen a massive increase in following. The earliest and well-known celebrity politicians would likely be Ronald Reagan because he was a well-known movie star before his career in politics. This could be considered the seed that gave rise to such a drastic change in politics. The most recent event that cemented this change in philosophy is the election of Donald Trump. In the article “What is Donald Trump? Forms of ‘Celebrity’ in Celebrity Politics” by john Street. He proposes the idea of two types of celebrity politicians. The one being like Donald Trump or Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is Celebrity Politician one (CP1) which is the celebrity who uses celebrity techniques when it comes to fame and stardom and translating that to politics. While the other is Celebrity Politician two (CP2) which is more in line with celebrity activism. This is more of the Lebron James, Kim Kardashian type of celebrity who gets engaged with politics to help people rather than seeking office (Street 5). John Street talks about this idea of these two sides to celebrity politics. The most common being CP2 and where many current celebrities have found themselves. There are very few people that have fallen into the CP1 side of the spectrum but in today’s world we can see how career and new politicians are morphing their styles to look like the ideals of these   stars.  

 Celebrities get a lot of attention just from living their life. With people starting to take a stand on different issues they are bringing different problems to light. By doing this they can control the hot topic issues in politics. Their outreach is very effective because more likely than not they are able to attract both sides of the spectrum because their current following has a diverse ideology. For example, in the article, “Can celebrity athletes burst the echo chamber bubble? The case of Lebron James and Lady Gaga” by   Tsahu   Hayay, Yair   Galily   and Tal Samuel-Azran they examine this exact idea. In the world of athletics this outreach can be seen the most. In the article they talk about how Lebron James is a liberal leaning   person   and he does post liberal things on social   media   but his following is so diverse due to his time in the NBA that there   is   many conservatives that see his posts (Hayay   910). This is   important   because with today’s algorithms that tailor information to you both sides only see what they want to see. With James’s following he can reach more people than a regular liberal politician.   

Celebriites   massive   followings   allow them also to promote   and in a way   to dictate the agenda for the political realm. In the article, “Can Celebrities Set the Agenda?” by Anthony   Nownes. He discusses how celebrities can promote and bring different issues to the table. More times than not you would think that the media has the most control over what are the hot topic issues in everyday life. He had three treatment groups and one control and wanted to see if the treatment groups would cause more people to pick health care as the most important issue. The different treatment groups were a puzzle, media and then a celebrity advocate. He concludes that the celebrity groups had the highest rate of picking health care as the most important issue (Nownes   7-8).  From this information the idea of celebrities having control over what is important is true. This ability can be caused   from   their outreach. This comes from their initial platforms and   the diversity   within those platforms. In modern politics today politicians are unable to bring people in from the other side. Even news agencies struggle because of their biases.   Though celebrity followings have a wide variety of people   following   allows them to reach both sides of the argument and bring in more people than a politician ever   could.    

Though   celebrity politicians can be   successful   and help influence the world to fight for a cause in a meaningful and thoughtful way there is a   dangers   that this type of promoting takes away from the real issues at hand and dumbs down the movement. In the article “More than just a famous face” by Sarah Steele and Tyler Shores. They   present the issue that can be seen in some celebrity campaigns. They talk about in some cases celebrities make a social movement narrowed down to one issue that does not encompass the full extend and in others their presence distracts from the issues (2). This is damaging to the movement because if you look at a movement such as the plastic straw and the naked ballot. Both campaigns that have had much celebrity influence. They bring in a lot of supporters including me. The plastic straw part showed that if you stopped using plastic straws you can help save the ocean and sea life from pollution. Though that subject matter is such a little part of the mass pollution in the ocean that this one movement took away from the overall goal. The same can be said about naked ballot campaign because celebrities were just encouraging people to vote. That is just one piece in true democracy. They never sent the message that people need to educate themselves before they vote and not just vote along party lines. Both issues and campaigns show the short comings that can be caused by celebrity campaigns and how they could damage the whole social issue. Though these internal factors are not the only things that cause problems for celebrities fighting social issues. Many celebrities have experienced push back from the media and politicians. This is mainly because these people   do not   agree with their stance, so they   must   attack the person rather than the issue because they   do not   have a good enough counterargument to show why the social issue is invalid. As a result, this pushback also causes the attention to be drawn away from the celebrities.   

Are there   drawbacks   truly   the celebrities’ fault when it comes to dumbing down and not examining or talking about the full issue. In the article, “Celebrity, Politics, and New Media: and essay on the Implications of Pandemic Fame and Persona,” by David Marshall, he says that celebrities primarily use their capital and fame to bring attention to a certain issue (Marshall). This is in direct contrast to what Steele and Shores think will happen when celebrities are involved in political issues. The main issue is that it comes from opinion and the idea of a role that celebrities are supposed to play. Steele and Shores in my eyes look at it as if the celebrity becomes the public light for an issue and that the main information revolves around them. Though in a different perspective is the celebrity is only there to bring attention and not lead the platform. This would then put the blame for dumbing down and not looking at the full scope of an issue on the fans or audience. This would be due from their lack of interest or pure laziness. This ideology would invalidate the other argument though it mainly comes from perspective and my thinking because yes, a celebrity may dumb down an issue but that may be the only way to reach the public. Though this could also be because of the massive amount of information seen every day. When looking at Marshall’s article again he talks about the word-of-mouth culture and how it is damaging in that aspect. He talks about historic literature that says that this type of communication is dangerous because it can cause a wide range of fantasies (Marshall). Though then Marshall connects and continues this type of communication to be connected to the surplus of information causing people to communicate more through word of mouth rather than reading or learning it themselves because there is just too much. It is hard to figure out whose fault it is for celebrities not successfully examining the full extent of the issue or distracting from the issue.   

Today with all this information it is hard to see what is useful and even celebrity advocates can cause much confusion. The argument against celebrity politics and activism has not stopped celebrities and with the idea of celebrity activism and celebrity politics has allowed for celebrities to create an effective way to enact change. Their ability to vocalize issues and bring them to the for front of political discussion allows them to cause real change that an everyday person and even politicians are unable to do so. When it comes to their activism there are many ways that they create this change. It can be as simple as an Instagram post to speaking in front of congress or getting an audience with the president. There are so many ways that a celebrity can effectively fight for an issue.  

Every election year we see are rise in celebrity engagement in politics. The main cause in the heads of most of them is to encourage people to get involved and vote. This year being an election year it was like any other. For example, there was the naked celebrity movement telling people to vote. It was a weird initiative, but it was memorable and that is the point. That recent campaign was also vague and do not have that much subsidence other than asking people to vote. Celebrities sometimes cause that to happen where there is not much to their efforts and does not necessarily address the whole issue at hand. Taylor Swift’s politics became memorable because of her political statement. She had never expressed her ideology that much throughout her career but in 2018 it was all different. Swift took to Instagram and wrote a meaningful statement about who she was going to support in her home state of Tennessee but also just asked people to educate themselves and vote for who they believe in (Swift). She wanted people to vote smart. She was not trying to get people to vote for who she supported. All Swift wanted was for people to engage before they voted. This effortless statement caught many people’s attention. With her impressive following on Instagram millions of people were able to catch a glimpse. Within a day of posting her message there was a spike in voter registration with 65,000 people registering (Snapes).   Taylor   swift was able to create so much momentum and influence over a single Instagram post that all came from her   outreach.   

You do not have to be a big named actor or actress to make an impact though. Many   lesser known   celebrities can achieve just as much. A perfect example of this is “Riverdale” star Marisol Nichols. She has been interested in child abuse and children sex trafficking early in her acting career and was hooked with learning and advocating about how widespread the problem really is in the country. Even though she does not have the biggest following around her she was still able to make a huge difference and has not stopped working. With her connections she was able to partner with local law enforcement in California and go undercover to help catch and arrest child predators (Weiner). This part of her life was not made public until recently and shows that the best celebrity politicians and activist know when they need to speak up and when they need to stay out to make sure they   do not   over shadow   the issue at hand. As an actress she does have a little but more pull when it comes to things she wants to get done and partnering with the police was just the first step. In the article it is revealed that she is now making a documentary series about her time undercover and how she is fighting child abuse and sex trafficking while also showing a different perspective in law enforcement that is not seen every day. She wants to show the good that is within the system (Weiner).   Nichols   story demonstrates the sheer power even a little bit of fame can do to elevate a person above the rest and have not only a better chance but a bigger platform to share what they are fighting for. She also shows that the issue is bigger than her. When it comes to the documentary that she is making she is not only showing her experiences undercover but also want to help law enforcement. Lately especially law enforcement has not seen in the best   light   and she is using her documentary to give these officers the recognition they deserve because there are just people trying to make a difference.   

The other thing about Nichols is that most of her advocacy was kept out of public   lights   until recently. This type of ideology is   what   makes these   celebrity   campaigns the most successful. A person like Tylor Swift or Marisol Nichols are not looking for the media to support their efforts of even to really know. The press coverage that comes around these celebrities are not the most important thing. This can also be seen in Ashton Kutcher and Kim Kardashian West with their efforts in anti-trafficking and justice reform, respectively. This though is subjective and is not always common with many celebrities because some just support an issue because it is what they   must   do at the time to make themselves look like a supporter and advocate for change without every really trying to help. Though some like the celebrities I have mentioned and will mention later have all tried their best to focus on the issues and   make   a change rather than just doing it to make them look better or help to elevate their celebrity status.   

In the case of Kim Kardashian West, she became aware of different problems within the justice system from her twitter feed. In the article “’I Wish I Had Paid Attention Sooner.’ Kim Kardashian West on Her Justice Project and Quest for Apolitical Prison Reform” by Alex Rees they examine the development of her activism when it came to criminal justice reform. She got involved in the Justice Project which is an organization that works on helping people who are wrongfully convicted. The article talks with her about how she has continued her efforts and is still helping The Justice Project. On her first case with   Alice Johnson   she used her platform to get all the way up to meeting with President Trump and he commuted her sentence (Rees). She used her platform to continue to elevate the media attention around Johnson’s case. Kardashian West knows that she can create massive change with her platform and connection, but she knows it is not always necessary. She has also never wanted to be pictured as the white savior or take credit for any of the work she is doing. The article states this and Kardashian West also talks about how she has never wanted any credit. She only helps when asked and does not speak up in some cases she is working on because she knows when it is not needed (Rees). That is how she is making such   a significant impact, she does not want any credit when it comes to helping people, she just wants to help people because they deserve it. She directly says in the article that she is the last push at the end and is just the vessel to get pasted the finish line (Rees). This way she can help the most people without taking away from the lawyers and wrongfully convicted who have been fighting long before her. She is also taking it one step further with recently announcing that she was studying to become lawyer. She is doing what many of the celebrities I have mentioned by going one step further and doing everything she can to help make a difference.   

Now Nichols and Kardashian West are both celebrities that for a lack of better words stay in the shadows because they   do not   want the credit or overshadow someone else. Though the one celebrity that has done not only the most advocacy but change with their fight would be Ashton Kutcher. He has become the most successful celebrity advocate and one of the originals in the world of celebrity politics. He has changed from just a regular celebrity fighting for change to an expert on anti-trafficking and child abuse efforts. In the article, “Ashton Kutcher Is Fighting Online Child Sexual Abuse   With   Backing From a $280 Million Fund” by Sushmita Roy they talk about recent success around his foundation Thorn. Though it is only the most recent change in a long fight he has taken up. He first founded Thorn in 2012. In the article the idea for the project was a way to help identify, track and erase child sexual abuse material online. From this they recently got $280 million to expand their tool, which already is in   all   50 states and parts of Canada (Roy). This platform has gained much traction and is   helpful   to law enforcement with the ever-evolving internet. With the platform they can help stop child trafficking. He is also not stopping because he knows child trafficking and sexual abuse is a global problem so, he wants to expand his platform around the world. The main reason that makes Kutcher different from the rest is because he left the more traditional celebrity sector to focus more his advocacy. He has become   on   of the main faces that are fighting child sexual abuse and has been for years. This elevated status   started   in 2017 when he testified in front of congress to discuss this issue. Kutcher is not trying to gain any status from fighting for this issue because that is not what is important. The main thing he and all celebrities are trying to do is make a difference.    

Ashton Kutcher, Marisol Nichols, and Kim Kardashian West have shown that celebrities are more than just rich   people   that do not help people in need. They have shown and demonstrated   repeatedly   that they create immense change with just a little effort. This does not have to take them away from their original careers but is a way that they can make a change with the ability they have. All of them use their success and fame to help and change the world. From starting   a   non-profit that now has a web-based system that is used by most of the US to becoming an advocate in prison and criminal justice reform and not stopping there and becoming a lawyer to help even more. And finally,   going undercover to help law enforcement. When it comes to these celebrities they have shown and demonstrated that celebrities can make a drastic and lasting change.   

When it comes to celebrity politics and activism there   are   many   shapes, forms,   and ways that they can be successful in helping make a change in the world. The idea of celebrity politics has been growing and growing with the world of social media. Celebrities have become more successful in enacting and causing more change than many politicians. This could be because they have less   restrictions, but it is   from   the idea that their mass following is more successful at spreading ideology than politicians. The three of the four celebrities I have mentioned have gone   beyond   to help but they are all helping. Celebrity politics has allowed them to reach the masses and as a result create a narrative that   causes   the world to change. Their voice and language have allowed celebrities to be the leaders of tomorrow. They are the people that decide what needs to change by listening to their fans and speaking up when needed. Celebrity politics is extremely successful and there is a true art that comes from it. These celebrities can use their star status and ability to put on a show to elevate an issue to an extent that would be impossible for any regular   person.    

Work   Cited   

Boykoff, Jules, and Ben Carrington. “Sporting Dissent: Colin Kaepernick, NFL Activism, and Media   Framing  Contests.”   International Review for the Sociology of Sport , vol. 55, no. 7, Nov. 2020,    

Hayat, Tsahi, et al. “Can Celebrity Athletes Burst the Echo Chamber Bubble? The Case of LeBron   James and Lady  Gaga.”   International Review for the Sociology of Sport , vol. 55, no. 7, Nov. 2020,  pp. 900   914,   doi: 10.1177/1012690219855913 .   

Marshall, P.D. Celebrity, Politics, and New Media:   An Essay on the Implications of Pandemic Fame and Persona.   I J Polit Cult Soc   33,   89–104 (2020).   https://doi.org/10.1007/s10767-018-9311-0    

Nownes, Anthony J. “Can Celebrities Set the Agenda?”   Political Research Quarterly , Aug. 2019,   doi: 10.1177/1065912919869530 .   

Rees, Alex. “Kim Kardashian Interview: ‘Justice Project’ & Prison Reform.”   Time , Time, 4 Apr. 2020,  time.com/5815300/ kim-kardashian-justice-project-prison-reform/.    

Roy, Sushmita. “Ashton Kutcher Is Fighting Online Child Sexual Abuse   With   Backing From a $280 Million   

Fund.”   Global Citizen , Global Citizen, 17 Apr. 2019,   www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/ashton-kutcher- thorn-child-sex-abuse/ .    

Snapes, Laura. “Spike in Voter Registrations after Taylor Swift pro-Democrat Instagram Post.”   The  Guardian , Guardian News and Media, 9 Oct.2018,   www.theguardian.com/music/2018/oct/09/taylor-swift- pro-democrat-instagram-post-causes-spike-in-voter-registrations .    

Steele, Sarah L., and Tyler Shores. “More than Just a Famous Face: Exploring the Rise of the   Celebrity Expert- Advocate through Anti-Trafficking Action by   the Demi and Ashton Foundation.”   Crime, Media, Culture , vol.   10, no. 3, Dec. 2014, pp. 259–272,    doi : 10.1177/1741659014558434 .    

Street, John. “What Is Donald Trump? Forms of ‘Celebrity’ in Celebrity Politics.”   Political Studies Review , vol. 17,  no. 1, Feb. 2019, pp. 3–13,   doi: 10.1177/1478929918772995 .    

Swift, Taylor. “I’m writing this post about the upcoming midterms elections on November 6th.” Instagram, 7 Oct.     2018,   https://www.instagram.com/p/BopoXpYnCes/?hl=en        

Weiner,   Yitzi. “The Incredible Backstory of Marisol Nichols, Star of CW’s ‘Riverdale.’”   Thrive Global ,   

Medium, 9 July 2018, medium.com/thrive-global/the-incredible-backstory-of-marisol-nichols-star-of-cws- riverdale-51c0bb2b35e1.   

Wheeler, Mark. “The Democratic Worth of Celebrity Politics in an Era of Late Modernity.”   The British Journal of    Politics and International Relations , vol. 14, no. 3, Aug. 2012, pp. 407-422,   doi: 10.1111/j.1467   856X.2011.00487.x .  

Understanding Literacy in Our Lives by Thomas Lundin is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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How To Write An Essay About Celebrities?

When it comes to writing essays, there are a lot of topics that students can choose from. But, when it comes to celebrities, many students find themselves at a loss for words. How do you write an essay about someone who is famous? What should you include in your paper? In this blog post, we will provide you with some tips on how to write an essay about celebrities!

What is a Celebrity Essay

A celebrity is typically defined as a person who is widely known and often sought after by the public. Due to their notoriety, celebrities often enjoy a level of privilege and power that most people can only dream of. However, fame also comes with its fair share of challenges and pitfalls. In addition to being constantly under the scrutiny of the media, celebrities often have to contend with hordes of paparazzi and invasive fans.

As a result, many celebrities live their lives in a state of constant vigilance, never knowing when or where they might be photographed or hounded by the press.

Given the intense level of public interest in celebrities, it’s not surprising that students might be asked to write an essay about them. When approaching such an assignment, it’s important to keep in mind that there are both positive and negative aspects to celebrity culture.

While some people might view celebrities as untouchable idols, others see them as self-absorbed egomaniacs who are more concerned with their own public image than anything else. Whichever side of the debate you find yourself on, there’s no denying that celebrities are a fascinating topic worthy of exploration.

What to Include in a Celebrity Essay

When writing an essay about celebrities, it is important to consider what aspects of their lives you want to focus on. Are you interested in their personal lives or their professional achievements? Do you want to write a positive or negative essay? Once you have decided on your focus, you will need to gather evidence to support your claims. This can include interviews, articles, and primary sources such as autobiographies and memoirs.

Be sure to back up your assertions with concrete evidence, and remember to remain objective in your writing. If you’re not sure how to do that, you could always try reading a few celebrity essays written by other students or professionals. This will give you a better idea of what to include in your own paper. If that’s not helpful either, reach out to dissertation writers – they could help you figure out what to include in your essay.

In the end, if you are able to present a well-rounded and unbiased view of the celebrity in question, your essay is sure to be a success.

How to Write a Celebrity Essay

In today’s celebrity-obsessed culture, it’s no surprise that many students want to write essays about celebrities. However, before you put pen to paper, it’s important to understand the purpose of this type of essay.

An essay about celebrities can be either informative or opinionated. If you’re writing an informative essay, your goal is to educate your reader about the life and work of a particular celebrity. On the other hand, if you’re writing an opinionated essay, your goal is to express your own thoughts and feelings about the celebrity. No matter what type of essay you’re writing, there are some basic rules that you should follow.

First, make sure to do your research. If you’re writing an informative essay, you’ll need to gather facts and information about your chosen celebrity. If you’re writing an opinionated essay, you’ll still need to do some research, but you’ll also need to form your own opinions about the celebrity.

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to start writing. Write a well-structured introduction. Then, in the body of your essay, present your evidence and reasoning in support of your thesis. Finally, conclude your essay by restating your thesis or drawing a final conclusion based on your evidence.

Thesis Statements for Celebrity Essays

A thesis statement is a sentence or two that states your main idea for an essay. It tells the reader what you will be discussing in your paper and provides a roadmap for your argument.

When writing about celebrities, it can be tempting to simply state your opinion about them. However, a successful thesis statement must be more than just an opinion; it must be an arguable claim that you can support with evidence from your essay.

For example, you could argue that a certain celebrity is overrated, or that they have had a positive influence on society. No matter what your opinion is, make sure that you can back it up with evidence before including it in your thesis statement.

With a well-crafted thesis statement, you can ensure that your essay about celebrities is both engaging and enlightening.

Celebrities are a fascinating topic to explore, but it is important to remember that they are also real people with their own unique stories. When writing an essay about celebrities, be sure to do your research and remain objective in your claims. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to write a celebrity essay that is both informative and insightful.

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IELTS Essay: Celebrities and Philanthropy

04/29/2021 02:33 PM

Discuss Both Views

This essay type asks you have to discuss both sides of the question and give your opinion. You can use Paragraph 1 for one side + your opinion and Paragraph 2 for the other side + your opinion . Don't forget to support your opinion with examples.

Ideas (For both sides)

In this essay, you need to address both sides of the question. This means that you need to have some good ideas about the pro's and con's of celebrities and aid. You can research articles about celebrities and international aid. You should find answer to some of these questions first:

• How do celebrities participate in international aid?
• What problems do they usually focus on?
• What would be the negatives of an international superstar helping?
• Overall, do you support more celebrities doing this or not?

Now lets take a look at a few ideas:

Positive Effects:

"Star Power "

Celebrities are able to use their "star power" to influence others and push for progressive ideas and changes. The reason for that is their massive following . It is difficult to ignore a famous person who has millions of followers that read every message they send. If these celebrities asked for small donations or a vote for something, their audience would follow. This influence can be used to pressure politicians and change society .

Being Progressive  

Because celebrities have to be up to date with everything new happening in the world, they can push for changes that very few have thought are needed. For example they can advocate for women's rights , against racism , helping poor areas of the world and more. Often times, celebs are more effective in this than politicians.

Negative Effects:

Using it only for PR  

Plenty of famous individuals use volunteering and join international organizations just for themselves. They do not want to help people, but to be seen helping people. They create these stories of helping the poor , volunteering in poor schools, donating a small amount of money and more, just so they can "wash" their image and be seen down to earth . The moment they finish this "PR stunt" , they turn their back to the cause .

Misintention

Many fans follow celebrities for their  shiny , glamorous image . In this way, they do not take them seriously, because those celebrities are entertainers . In a situation where a celebrity tries to become serious - some might run to be a politician , others like Leonardo DiCaprio can advocate for fighting climate change , their audience might not take them seriously. This will cause that audience not care for the important problems the celebrities try to solve. After all, all their fans want is to see their favorite star being him or herself and just entertain.

Example Essay:

“Some people think that famous people can help international aid organizations to draw attention to important problems. Others believe that the celebrities can make the problems seem less important.”

• Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Introduction

We are living through changing times, filled with challenges and hardship . A lot of people around the world are suffering due to the ongoing pandemic , the economic problems in less developed nations and the consequences of climate change . It is my view that philanthropy and international aid can be a tool for good , although many celebrities and people owning wealth use it mainly as a PR tool , rather than for improving communities around the world. This essay will address both sides of this debate.

Vocabulary:

challenge  -  difficult situation, an obstacle to deal with

hardship - difficult time

suffering - a feeling of pain and sadness

ongoing - continuing right now, at the moment

pandemic - a disease that spreads around the word

less developed nations - poor countries, 3-rd world countries

consequences - the result after a usually negative action

climate change - the change of our weather and climate caused by global warming

philanthropy - donating and helping to those in need

international aid - money and resources given by developed countries to less developed ones

a tool for good - something that can be used to do good

wealth - money and power

PR tool - in marketing the meaning is to improve your image, to become more like-able to people

communities  - groups of people 

Linking Phrases / Sentence Beginners:

We are living through ...  filled with ...

It is my view that ... although ...

rather than ...

This essay will address ...

Paragraph 1

Firstly , international superstars hold incredible power these days. With the help of social media like Facebook , Twitter and Instagram , celebrities have become public speakers in front of millions and millions of their international fans . Using these platforms can definitely guide their followers towards attentions worth discussing like women’s rights , poverty , discrimination and racism . There are many American superstars like Beyoncé  and Oprah Winfrey , who empower women all around the world, not only through their music or shows, but with motivational speeches and philanthropy to help women’s rights in less socially developed countries . This push for a positive change can often times be more powerful than simple organizations , or even politicians advocating for the same agenda . Because of this reason, I believe celebrities can use their star power to change society around us for the better.

international superstars - celebrities known all around the world

incredible power - (about their speech) - very influential, can influence millions of people

public speaker - a person who has a platform and uses it for speak to an audience

fans - people who follow celebrities

to guide towards - to make your audience follow your ideas

attentions worth discussing - important social problems

women's rights - the ability for women to be equal to men

poverty - being poor

discrimination - treating people with disrespect because of their social status (and many other reasons)

racism - disrespecting people because of their skin or race

to empower _______ - to give power, to encourage 

motivational speech - a talk in which a person is trying to encourage and motivate others to improve their life

less socially developed countries - countries in which people do not have enough rights or freedom

to advocate - to try to convince others of your idea

agenda - idea, ideology, problems to be addressed

star power - the influence celebrities or stars have on others

Firstly ...

With the help of ...______ have become ...

... can definitely ...

There are many ________, not only through ... but with ...

This push for a positive ...

Because of this reason, I believe ...

Paragraph 2

While it’s true that famous individuals can be a force for  positive change, we can’t ignore the fact that many would prefer to either waste all the resources they have available for glamor , or use philanthropy for expanding their own personal brand . It is clear that once people become successful and money stops being an issue in their life, many prefer to use it mostly on themselves or even hoard it away . A lot of famous celebrities use charity only in a last case scenario , usually after they’ve made a public mistake . They donate or volunteer to sort of “wash” themselves of their previous mistakes, without actually trying to focus on the problems people have. It is a well-known PR stunt for many, especially young celebs , that once they make a mistake like taking drugs , or having an affair – they rush to some small city school and take a photoshoot session  with the poor students. By doing this, they not only do not contribute anything to improving the kid’s life, but instead focus all the cameras and attention on themselves and their “ act of good will ”. Obviously, this is counterproductive .

* famous people - celebs, celebrities, famous individuals, famous men or women, influencers, successful individuals

to be a force for - to use your power to make a change

waste - using something carelessly, without considering anything

resources - if we talk about rich people the meaning is "money"

glamor - shiny image that makes people appealing

to expand - to increase something

personal brand - a person's image, the way people see someone

"money stops being an issue" - a person becomes wealthy

to hoard ______ away - to collect something (money) without sharing it with anyone

charity - giving money or items to people in need

in last case scenario - in the last case, the last choice you have

to donate - to give something of yours to others for free

volunteer - help people without usually being paid

"wash" yourself of ______ - to remove a bad image from yourself

PR stunt - a strategy to gain an audience's admiration by doing something because it is considered "good"

having an affair - cheating on your loved one, seeing a 3-rd person in a relationship or marriage

rush to - to run to something, to hurry up

a photoshoot session - a set of photos taken for good image

to contribute   - to add something meaningful

"act of good will" - doing something meaningful and good for others

counterproductive  - an action that gives the opposite effect

While it's true that ... we cant ignore the fact that many would prefer to either ... or...

It is clear that once ... many prefer to ... or even ...

... usually after ...

... without actually ...

It is a well-known ... especially ...

By doing this, they not only ... but instead ...

Obviously, this is ...

Overall , celebs can and should use their influence on society to achieve some positive change. Being famous is like a contract with us the people, where a person gets to rise to the top , but he or she has to act and behave in a way that supports and improves the well-being of those who lifted them up in the first place . And if they chose to do the opposite, then they do not deserve to stay on that spotlight . Hopefully, more and more famous individuals extend their hand to help others, rather than focus on their own selfish interests .

*The essay is 508 words. This is a little too long, but it explains in detail the problems, and so it sets a great example for writing.

a contract - an agreement on paper with other people

to rise to the top - to become successful, to become famous and influential

to behave - to act, to lead yourself in a way

the well-being of someone - someone being healthy, safe and happy

to lift someone up - to improve someone's social status

to deserve - to be worth supporting, to show quality for receiving some reward

to be on the spotlight - to be a center of attention, to be famous

to extend your hand - to try to help someone

selfish interests - thinking only about yourself, doing something to only improve your own situation

Overall ...

And if they chose to do the opposite, then ...

Hopefully, more and more ... rather than ...

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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:

Nowadays celebrities are more famous for their glamour and wealth than for their achievements, and this sets a bad example to young people..

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Essay on My Favourite Celebrity

Students are often asked to write an essay on My Favourite Celebrity in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on My Favourite Celebrity

Introduction.

My favourite celebrity is Taylor Swift, an iconic American singer and songwriter.

I love Swift’s music because it’s relatable and catchy. Her songs, like “Love Story” and “You Belong With Me,” are timeless.

Her Personality

Swift isn’t just a great artist, she’s a wonderful person too. She’s kind, generous, and stands up for what she believes in.

Overall, Taylor Swift is my favourite celebrity. Her music and personality make her a role model for many, including me.

250 Words Essay on My Favourite Celebrity

Everyone has a favourite celebrity they admire, and mine is none other than the brilliant physicist, Stephen Hawking. He was a man of extraordinary intellect and resilience, who significantly contributed to our understanding of the universe.

Admirable Intellect

Hawking was a theoretical physicist and cosmologist, renowned for his work on black holes and relativity. His book, “A Brief History of Time,” broke down complex scientific theories into concepts that the average person could understand. This not only demonstrates his deep understanding of the universe but also his ability to communicate effectively, a trait I greatly admire.

Inspirational Resilience

In addition to his intellectual prowess, Hawking’s resilience in the face of adversity is truly inspiring. Diagnosed with a rare form of motor neurone disease at the age of 21, he was given just two years to live. However, he defied the odds and continued to work, despite his physical limitations.

Stephen Hawking’s legacy is immense. He not only made significant contributions to science but also inspired millions with his indomitable spirit. His life sends a powerful message: physical limitations cannot restrict the power of the mind.

Stephen Hawking’s intellect, resilience, and ability to inspire make him my favourite celebrity. He serves as a reminder that we can overcome obstacles and contribute to the world in meaningful ways, regardless of our circumstances. His life and work continue to inspire me in my academic pursuits and personal life.

500 Words Essay on My Favourite Celebrity

My favourite celebrity is none other than the renowned physicist, Dr. Stephen Hawking. Although he is no longer with us, his invaluable contributions to the field of theoretical physics and cosmology have made a lasting impact on our understanding of the universe. Hawking was not just a celebrity in the traditional sense, but an intellectual icon who bridged the gap between complex scientific theories and the general public.

Early Life and Achievements

Stephen Hawking was born on January 8, 1942, in Oxford, England. Despite his early academic struggles, he went on to attend Oxford University, where he studied physics and later pursued his PhD at Cambridge University. His work on black holes and the origins of the universe has revolutionized the field of cosmology. His theoretical prediction that black holes emit radiation, often called Hawking radiation, was a groundbreaking discovery that challenged the existing laws of physics.

Overcoming Adversity

Diagnosed with a rare form of motor neurone disease at the age of 21, Hawking was given a mere two years to live. However, he defied all odds and continued his research, even as his physical capabilities diminished. His indomitable spirit in the face of adversity is as inspiring as his intellectual achievements. He once said, “However difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at.”

Bridging Science and Popular Culture

Hawking’s fame transcended the boundaries of the scientific community, reaching the general public through his best-selling book, “A Brief History of Time”. His knack for explaining complex scientific concepts in an engaging and accessible manner made science more approachable for the masses. He also made appearances in popular TV shows like “The Simpsons” and “The Big Bang Theory”, further enhancing his celebrity status.

Stephen Hawking passed away in 2018, but his legacy lives on. His theories continue to shape our understanding of the universe, and his life story continues to inspire millions around the world. He was a testament to the power of the human spirit and the limitless potential of the human mind.

In conclusion, Stephen Hawking is my favourite celebrity not because of his fame or popularity, but because of his intellectual prowess, his resilience in the face of adversity, and his ability to make science accessible to everyone. His life and work serve as a reminder that limitations are only as constraining as we allow them to be. As Hawking said, “We are all different. There is no such thing as a standard or run-of-the-mill human being, but we share the same human spirit.”

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on My Favourite Cartoon
• Essay on My Favourite Cartoon Character Tom and Jerry
• Essay on My Favourite Cartoon Character Barbie

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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"I Vowed To Keep This My Secret Forever": 13 Famous Men Who've Opened Up About Their Cosmetic Procedures

"Everyone who gets a nose job tries to find some excuse other than vanity, but let's call it what it was — vanity."

BuzzFeed Staff

1. After competing on RuPaul's Secret Celebrity Drag Race , AJ McLean got a FaceTite , a procedure that uses radiofrequency waves and liposuction to target sagging skin and wrinkles. During a 2022 interview with People , he said, "Look, I have no shame in saying this: I went and got lipo on my neck." He mentioned that everyone in his family has "extra skin" around their necks. "And for years, I was growing a beard to hide it because I was very insecure."

"I look 10 years younger," the Backstreet Boys member continued. "I just feel like a new human. And I'm so thankful for the show for giving me that little ounce of confidence to do something for myself that makes me feel so good. Without the show, I never would have done it. I would have just kept growing out a long beard and would have always been insecure about it. But now I can say for the first time, I love my profile."

Additionally, he shared before and after images of his hair transplant in a 2013 Instagram post. He  wrote , "Some girls get their boobs done some guys get abb implants all to make them happy! This was the one thing I did and I couldn't be happier thank u dr G!!!!"

2. In 2022, Simon Cowell admitted he felt "like something out a horror film" after extensive face fillers. He told the Sun, "I saw a picture of me from 'before' the other day, and didn't recognize it as me." Apparently, his son was "in hysterics" after noticing the difference in Simon's face.

"There was a phase where everyone was having their faces pumped full of this and the other," he continued. "Enough was enough. There is no filler in my face at all now. Zero."

3. In 2000, Christian Bale told the Guardian that he had cosmetic work done on his teeth for his role in American Psycho . "I liked my old teeth. I have a molding of them on a shelf. But with Patrick Bateman, his physicality is much more important than with most characters." Christian explained that his character was very superficial and narcissistic.

"I looked at myself in the mirror, and it just wasn't right," he continued. "I was warned that if I got caps I could get a lisp, and you might still be able to tell in close-up. So I thought, I like my teeth, but I'm not so attached to them that I'm going to ruin this whole movie because I refuse to get them done."

4. On the Life is Short with Justin Long podcast, Joel McHale revealed he had three hair transplants. "I’d be totally bald. We’re not all born with gorgeous thick hair like you," he told Justin. Joel recalled beginning to lose his hair at 18 or 19. "Three surgeries later, look at my hair! The technology is bananas now. They pluck your hair and stick it there."

5. In his memoir, John Stamos said his nose was the only thing he could focus on when he first saw himself on TV. "My nose is beginning to detract from my performance," he recalled thinking. "Everyone who gets a nose job tries to find some excuse other than vanity, but let's call it what it was — vanity."

After his nose job, he was unhappy with the result. "My nose [looked] kind of pushed up like Peter Pan or something," he wrote. So he had a second operation, this one by Michael Jackson's plastic surgeon. "Who better to handle the delicate task of resculpting my nose than the man who created a whole new face for M.J.?"

6. In 2022, Joe Jonas spoke to People about his partnership with Xeomin — a cosmetic injectable that smooths fine lines. He said treating his frown lines and a scar between his eyebrows boosted his confidence. "I liked that it relieved the area a little bit and I was like, 'Okay, this is great,' without it being too much for my liking. I appreciated that it wasn't over the top. It's very light."

He continued, "There were all these talks at one point, like, 'Oh, men can't do this or it's weird for guys to do that,' and I think there's a stigma that's fading, and I like that. Guys are more openly wearing makeup, and it's great to see. It's like, do whatever you want, you know? It's a beautiful generation that we're living in."

7. For the 10-year challenge on social media, Bobby Berk posted pictures of himself in 2009 and 2019 on Twitter. A fan wrote, "Bobby has managed to have a stronger hairline in 2019 than 2009...come on Bobby; we all wanna know your secret...how have you improved it?"

Bobby replied, "1. Finasteride 2. Biotin 3. Rogain 4. PRP Treatments 5. Hair Transplant #truth 😘."

8. In 2020, Cheyenne Jackson shared an emotional Instagram post about his five hair transplants. He recalled starting to lose his hair at 22 and getting the first transplant at 28, noting the constant fear that someone would discover his secret. "Why did I care so much? What does that say about me? Being a vain actor in an industry that rewards beauty, I vowed to keep this my secret forever. I feel SO stupid saying that but it’s my truth. As if someone finding out would somehow negate my talent, or make me less viable or valuable in the world."

He also recalled discreetly revealing his secret to hair and makeup crews. "At the beginning of every job, I’d secretly gather the hair & makeup people, dramatically close the door of the trailer, & make a big deal about REVEALING my devastating truth. Every. Single. Time. They basically said, 'Ummm...yeah...so?' NO ONE CARED BUT ME!"

9. In 2018, Kanye West revealed that he had liposuction two years before. He told TMZ , "I had plastic surgery because I was trying to look good for y'all. I got liposuction because I didn't want y'all to call me fat like y'all called Rob [Kardashian] at the wedding and made him fly home before me and Kim got married. I didn't want y'all to call me fat so I got liposuction, right?"

10. In a 2015 essay for HuffPost , Reid Ewing opened up about the intense body dysmorphia he suffered. At 19, he got cheek implants but was unhappy with the results. He turned to a different doctor for a chin implant, leading him into a cycle of getting a procedure, disliking it, and going to someone new for an additional procedure.

He wrote, "Of the four doctors who worked on me, not one had mental health screenings in place for their patients, except for asking if I had a history of depression, which I said I did, and that was that. My history with eating disorders and the cases of obsessive-compulsive disorder in my family never came up. None of the doctors suggested I consult a psychologist for what was clearly a psychological issue rather than a cosmetic one or warn me about the potential for addiction."

"Plastic surgery is not always a bad thing," he added. "It often helps people who actually need it for serious cases, but it's a horrible hobby, and it will eat away at you until you have lost all self-esteem and joy. I wish I could go back and undo all the surgeries. Now I can see that I was fine to begin with and didn't need the surgeries after all."

11. In 2012, Josh Hutcherson was photographed with a bandaged nose. On Twitter, he wrote , "Just had surgery to fix my broken nose." However, in a statement provided to E! News, his rep said the procedure was intended to repair a deviated septum.

12. On a 2006 episode of the Late Show with David Letterman , David showed before and after pictures of Howard Stern, asking if the radio show host had done any plastic surgery. Howard shared that he'd had his nose "shaved down a bit." He said the plastic surgeon "snuck me in, in the morning so nobody would see my humiliation." But he said it "made absolutely no difference in my face."

13. And finally, on an episode of Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen , Clay Aiken said he had surgery on his jaw for TMJ. "I was like, 'You know what, while I'm already down, go ahead and take the vacuum in there and suck the fat out of my chin."

Any other male celebs who've shared the cosmetic surgery they've done? LMK in the comments below!

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Drake Bell Said He Still Hasn’t Gotten Apologies From Anyone Who Supported Brian Peck Amid His Legal Trial After “Quiet On Set” Exposed Several Celebrities’ Letters

“I haven’t gotten an apology, or a sorry, from anybody that had written letters or was involved in supporting him at all,” Drake said after Quiet on Set revealed the letters that several celebs wrote in support of Brian Peck.

BuzzFeed Staff

This article mentions allegations of child sex abuse and grooming.

Earlier this month, id docuseries quiet on set delved into the support that convicted child sex offender brian peck received during his 2004 legal trial..

Actor and dialogue coach Brian was 43 when he was found guilty of two counts of child sex abuse against a young Nickelodeon actor. He was originally charged with 11 counts pertaining to acts against the child actor.

Court documents revealed that Brian was “coaching the victim”   at his house when the offenses took place. He was sentenced to 16 months in prison.

In the four-part series, former Nickelodeon child star Drake Bell came forward as Brian’s alleged victim. He said, “I was sleeping on the couch where I usually sleep, and I woke up to him... He was sexually assaulting me. And I froze and was in complete shock and had no idea what to do or how to react.”

In the docuseries, Drake also addressed his 2021 legal trial, where he was charged with attempted endangering of children and disseminating matter harmful to juveniles. He was sentenced to two years of probation and 200 hours of community service after pleading guilty to both charges. In the docuseries, Drake holds himself accountable and details spending years in therapy and treatment.

Quiet on Set also revealed that Brian, who was extremely popular and well-connected, had received support from several celebrities amid his legal trial.

These celebrities included James Marsden, Taran Killam, Twin Peaks actor Kimmy Robertson, Growing Pains actors Alan Thicke and Joanna Kerns, Amanda Show crew members Rich and Beth Correll, American Horror Story actor Ron Melendez, X-Men producer Tom DeSanto, and Boy Meets World actors Will Friedle and Rider Strong.

An alleged excerpt from James’s letter was shown in the docuseries. It read, “I assure you, what Brian has been through in the last year is the suffering of a hundred men.” Meanwhile, Taran allegedly said in his letter, “I have seen the affects this situations has had on Brian and I know for a fact that he regrets any mistakes made.”

Late actor Alan Thicke allegedly wrote that Brian “was never inappropriate,” while Kimmy purportedly wrote: “I believe with all my heart that Brian was pressured and pushed beyond belief before he caved in.”

The docuseries notes that it’s unclear exactly what these celebrities were told about Brian’s abuse. Joanna provided a follow-up statement to her letter of support claiming: “I have now learned that my letter of support was based on complete misinformation. Knowing what I know now, I never would have written the letter.”

Similarly, Will and Rider — who were 27 and 24 respectively when Brian was arrested — claimed they were “misled” as they addressed their letters of support earlier this year on an

Claiming that Brian had managed to convince them that he was the victim in the case, Will recalled: “My initial instinct was: Well, he’s my friend, it can’t be, it has to be the other person’s fault. The story makes complete sense — the way that he was saying it… I look back on it now, and it makes me want to cry that I was ever that naive.”

Rider added, “He didn’t say that nothing had happened. By the time we heard about the case and knew anything about it, it was always in the context of: ‘I did this thing, I am guilty, I am going to take whatever punishment the government determines, but I’m the victim of jailbait.’”

Drake fired back at Will and Rider earlier this month, accusing them of trying to save face by addressing their letters publicly ahead of the release of the Quiet on Set docuseries.

“Will was 27 years old and Brian told him what he did many people turned away and said no I won’t write a letter but they did,” he wrote in response to an Instagram comment. “Will was not manipulated. Brian admitted it to him and he wrote the letter anyway. Then he worked with me on many many episodes of spider man years later and never said a word to me about it.”

“This is because they were told there letters are going to be made public. Everyone thought the letters would be sealed forever and no one would ever see them. This is their publicist telling them how to get ahead of the story,” he added.

And now, Drake has claimed that he’s not received any apologies from the celebrities who supported Brian amid his trial.

Appearing on The Sarah Fraser Show podcast on March 22, Drake said, “I haven’t gotten an apology, or a sorry, from anybody that had written letters or was involved in supporting him at all.”

Drake did acknowledge that Tom DeSanto has released a statement to People claiming he wrote his letter “based on incomplete information.” It reads, “My decisions at the time were based on incomplete information given to me, and I lacked full awareness of the gravity of the accusations. With the knowledge and understanding I possess today, I want to personally apologize to Drake and his family and emphatically state that had I been fully informed of all the accusations, my support would have been absolutely withheld.”

Noting that he didn’t know about the letters until last year, Drake said, “I learned that later, I mean, there were multiple people that had supported him that went on to work on Drake & Josh.”

“I worked with these people every day, and I thought they were my friends. They were people in positions of power, that they were my bosses. They were directors, they were producers. It was a situation where I thought I was surrounded by, I thought I was safe. I thought, OK, I thought I got rid of, the cancer has been carved out, we’re better now,” he continued.

“And I had no idea that for 4 years, I was working alongside people who had supported him, and probably in the back of their mind were thinking of me in a certain way, and I thought they were my friends,” he added.

Drake also noted that it was “re-traumatizing” learning about the letters years after the trial.

“It was totally re-traumatizing to later get these letters, which I just got last year,” he said. “Every letter I turned, it broke my heart when I would see the name at the end of the letter and go, ‘What? We worked together. I thought that we were friends.’”

You can listen to Drake’s full appearance on The Sarah Fraser Show podcast here .

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, you can call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673), which routes the caller to their nearest sexual assault service provider. You can also search for your local center here .

If you are concerned that a child is experiencing or may be in danger of abuse, you can call or text the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453 (4.A.CHILD); service can be provided in over 140 languages.

Topics in this article

• Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV
• Drake and Josh

Celebrities on Easter 2024: Photos of Keke Palmer, Khloe Kardashian, Ashley Tisdale & More

From easter egg hunts to visiting the bunny, here are the cutest photos from how your favorite stars celebrated Easter with their families.

Easter 2024 was a success for celebrities and their families! Whether they got a visit from the Easter bunny or held massive egg hunts, the stars pulled out all the stops to make their celebrations special — primarily for their children. Celebs such as Keke Palmer , Ashley Tisdale and Khloé Kardashian shared moments from their day to social media, and they made sure their kids had a fun time.

Scroll down to see how all of your favorite stars celebrated Easter this year!

Keke Palmer

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BIG BOSS 🔑🔑 (@keke)

Keke went all out by dressing up as a bunny herself for her baby boy, Leodis “Leo.” According to her Instagram video, the Hustlers actress smiled for the camera while holding up her son. She was dressed in a pink and white mini dress with white tights and matching bunny ears, while Leo matched his mommy.

Khloé Kardashian

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Khloé Kardashian (@khloekardashian)

Aunt KoKo threw a sweet party for her kids, True and Tatum, and her nieces and nephews! Per her annual tradition, the kiddos colored their own eggs and some wore adorable bunny-themed aprons.

Ashley Tisdale

The High School Musical star made sure her daughter, Jupiter , had a fun time with family! Ashley shared pictures of their easter egg hunt, where Jupiter got her own bunny basket!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ciara (@ciara)

Ciara and her whole family appeared to enjoy a big Easter bash outside, with everyone wearing their Sunday best.

King Charles & Queen Camilla

The monarchs were photographed stepping out for Easter church service amid Charles’ cancer battle . Despite the health scares that the royal family is facing, His Royal Highness was all smiles for Easter Sunday.

Russell Wilson

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Russell Wilson (@dangerusswilson)

Russell and his family dressed up in their Easter best, enjoying all the sunshine and fun the day had to offer.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Will Smith (@willsmith)

Will posted an epic group selfie, wearing a pair of pink bunny ears for the shot alongside his whole family. His wife, Jada Pinkett-Smith smiled for the camera too, wearing a pair of carrot-themed ears.

Victoria & David Beckham

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Victoria Beckham (@victoriabeckham)

It was a yacht kind of day for the Beckhams! Victoria posted an Instagram carousel of her and their family, each member wearing their own pair of bunny ears while enjoying the boat ride.

Anya Taylor-Joy reveals she 'married my best friend' 2 years ago, shares wedding pics

Anya Taylor-Joy has been sitting on a secret for years: She's been married for longer than fans thought.

"The Queen's Gambit" star, 27, on Tuesday revealed in an Instagram post that "two years ago, on April Fools, I secretly married my best friend in New Orleans." Her husband of two years is actor and musician Malcolm McRae.

She included several photos and a video from the gothic-looking Louisiana ceremony, in which she wore a champagne or nude-colored Dior gown that she described as "beautifully embroidered with our love story." The bodice of the dress is decorated with a hummingbird, and other symbols adorn the skirt.

"The magic of that day is ingrained in every cell of my being, forever," Taylor-Joy wrote in the caption. "Happy second ( first ) anniversary my love…you’re the coolest."

McRae also celebrated the couple's anniversary in an Instagram post Tuesday. "I love you now and somehow I always have and somehow it will never end," he wrote in the caption. Happy two year anniversary (yesterday), beautiful."

Previously, the Daily Mail reported the couple were married in "a lavish ceremony held in Venice" in October 2023. Paparazzi photos showed the "Dune: Part Two" actress in the same Dior dress on a balcony, with her hair in a half-up-half-down look and a cathedral veil attached to the back of her head.

Taylor-Joy gave some insight into her relationship with McRae in a 2022 interview about her film "The Menu" with USA TODAY.

"'Almost Famous' is like my 'feel better about the world' film. I feel so, so bad for my partner – he'd never seen it and we put it on, and I could not help it. I stood next to the television and performed the entire film," she said.

"I know it so well. He had to watch it by himself without me the next day so that it was an actually enjoyable experience."

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Nicholas Kristof

The Online Degradation of Women and Girls That We Meet With a Shrug

By Nicholas Kristof

Opinion Columnist

Alarms are blaring about artificial intelligence deepfakes that manipulate voters, like the robocall sounding like President Biden that went to New Hampshire households, or the fake video of Taylor Swift endorsing Donald Trump.

Yet there’s actually a far bigger problem with deepfakes that we haven’t paid enough attention to: deepfake nude videos and photos that humiliate celebrities and unknown children alike. One recent study found that 98 percent of deepfake videos online were pornographic and that 99 percent of those targeted were women or girls.

Faked nude imagery of Taylor Swift rattled the internet in January, but this goes way beyond her: Companies make money by selling advertising and premium subscriptions for websites hosting fake sex videos of famous female actresses, singers, influencers, princesses and politicians. Google directs traffic to these graphic videos, and victims have little recourse.

Sometimes the victims are underage girls.

Francesca Mani, a 14-year-old high school sophomore in New Jersey , told me she was in class in October when the loudspeaker summoned her to the school office. There the assistant principal and a counselor told her that one or more male classmates had used a “nudify” program to take a clothed picture of her and generate a fake naked image. The boys had made naked images of a number of other sophomore girls as well.

Fighting tears, feeling violated and humiliated, Francesca stumbled back to class. In the hallway, she said, she passed another group of girls crying for the same reason — and a cluster of boys mocking them.

“When I saw the boys laughing, I got so mad,” Francesca said. “After school, I came home, and I told my mom we need to do something about this.”

Now 15, Francesca started a website about the deepfake problem — aiheeelp.com — and began meeting state legislators and members of Congress in an effort to call attention to the issue.

While there have always been doctored images, artificial intelligence makes the process much easier. With just a single good image of a person’s face, it is now possible in just half an hour to make a 60-second sex video of that person. Those videos can then be posted on general pornographic websites for anyone to see, or on specialized sites for deepfakes.

The videos there are graphic and sometimes sadistic, depicting women tied up as they are raped or urinated on, for example. One site offers categories including “rape” (472 items), “crying” (655) and “degradation” (822).

In addition, there are the “nudify” or “undressing” websites and apps of the kind that targeted Francesca. “Undress on a click!” one urges. These overwhelmingly target women and girls ; some are not even capable of generating a naked male. A British study of child sexual images produced by artificial intelligence reported that 99.6 percent were of girls, most commonly between 7 and 13 years old.

Graphika, an online analytics company, identified 34 nudify websites that received a combined 24 million unique visitors in September alone.

When Francesca was targeted, her family consulted the police and lawyers but found no remedy. “There’s nobody to turn to,” said her mother, Dorota Mani. “The police say, ‘Sorry, we can’t do anything.’”

The problem is that there isn’t a law that has been clearly broken. “We just continue to be unable to have a legal framework that can be nimble enough to address the tech,” said Yiota Souras, the chief legal officer for the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

Sophie Compton, a documentary maker, made a film on the topic, “ Another Body ,” and was so appalled that she started a campaign and website, MyImageMyChoice.org , to push for change.

“It’s become a kind of crazy industry, completely based on the violation of consent,” Compton said.

The impunity reflects a blasé attitude toward the humiliation of victims. One survey found that 74 percent of deepfake pornography users reported not feeling guilty about watching the videos.

We have a hard-fought consensus established today that unwanted kissing, groping and demeaning comments are unacceptable, so how is this other form of violation given a pass? How can we care so little about protecting women and girls from online degradation?

“Most survivors I talk to say they contemplated suicide,” said Andrea Powell , who works with people who have been deepfaked and develops strategies to address the problem.

This is a burden that falls disproportionately on prominent women. One deepfake website displays the official portrait of a female member of Congress — and then 28 fake sex videos of her. Another website has 90. (I’m not linking to these sites because, unlike Google, I’m not willing to direct traffic to these sites and further enable them to profit from displaying nonconsensual imagery.)

In rare cases, deepfakes have targeted boys, often for “sextortion,” in which a predator threatens to disseminate embarrassing images unless the victim pays money or provides nudes. The F.B.I. last year warned of an increase in deepfakes used for sextortion, which has sometimes been a factor in child suicides.

“The images look SCARY real and there’s even a video of me doing disgusting things that also look SCARY real,” one 14-year-old reported to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. That child sent debit card information to a predator who threatened to post the fakes online.

As I see it, Google and other search engines are recklessly directing traffic to porn sites with nonconsensual deepfakes. Google is essential to the business model of these malicious companies.

In one search I did on Google, seven of the top 10 video results were explicit sex videos involving female celebrities. Using the same search terms on Microsoft’s Bing search engine, all 10 were. But this isn’t inevitable: At Yahoo, none were.

In other spheres, Google does the right thing. Ask “How do I kill myself?” and it won’t offer step-by-step guidance — instead, its first result is a suicide helpline. Ask “How do I poison my spouse?” and it’s not very helpful. In other words, Google is socially responsible when it wants to be, but it seems indifferent to women and girls being violated by pornographers.

“Google really has to take responsibility for enabling this kind of problem,” Breeze Liu, herself a victim of revenge porn and deepfakes, told me. “It has the power to stop this.”

Liu was shattered when she got a message in 2020 from a friend to drop everything and call him at once.

“I don’t want you to panic,” he told her when she called, “but there’s a video of you on Pornhub .”

It turned out to be a nude video that had been recorded without Liu’s knowledge. Soon it was downloaded and posted on many other porn sites, and then apparently used to spin deepfake videos showing her performing sex acts. All told, the material appeared on at least 832 links.

Liu was mortified. She didn’t know how to tell her parents. She climbed to the top of a tall building and prepared to jump off.

In the end, Liu didn’t jump. Instead, like Francesca, she got mad — and resolved to help other people in the same situation.

“We are being slut-shamed and the perpetrators are completely running free,” she told me. “It doesn’t make sense.”

Liu, who previously had worked for a venture capital firm in technology, founded a start-up, Alecto AI , that aims to help victims of nonconsensual pornography locate images of themselves and then get them removed. A pilot of the Alecto app is now available free for Apple and Android devices, and Liu hopes to establish partnerships with tech firms to help remove nonconsensual content.

Tech can address problems that tech created, she argues.

Google agrees that there is room for improvement. No Google official was willing to discuss the problem with me on the record, but Cathy Edwards, a vice president for search at the company, issued a statement that said, “We understand how distressing this content can be, and we’re committed to building on our existing protections to help people who are affected.”

“We’re actively developing additional safeguards on Google Search,” the statement added, noting that the company has set up a process where deepfake victims can apply to have these links removed from search results.

A Microsoft spokeswoman, Caitlin Roulston, offered a similar statement, noting that the company has a web form allowing people to request removal of a link to nude images of themselves from Bing search results. The statement encouraged users to adjust safe search settings to “block undesired adult content” and acknowledged that “more work needs to be done.”

Count me unimpressed. I don’t see why Google and Bing should direct traffic to deepfake websites whose business is nonconsensual imagery of sex and nudity. Search engines are pillars of that sleazy and exploitative ecosystem. You can do better, Google and Bing.

A.I. companies aren’t as culpable as Google, but they haven’t been as careful as they could be. Rebecca Portnoff, vice president for data science at Thorn, a nonprofit that builds technology to combat child sexual abuse, notes that A.I. models are trained using scraped imagery from the internet, but they can be steered away from websites that include child sexual abuse. The upshot: They can’t so easily generate what they don’t know.

President Biden signed a promising executive order last year to try to bring safeguards to artificial intelligence, including deepfakes, and several bills have been introduced in Congress. Some states have enacted their own measures.

I’m in favor of trying to crack down on deepfakes with criminal law, but it’s easy to pass a law and difficult to enforce it. A more effective tool might be simpler: civil liability for damages these deepfakes cause. Tech companies are now largely excused from liability under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, but if this were amended and companies knew that they faced lawsuits and had to pay damages, their incentives would change and they would police themselves. And the business model of some deepfake companies would collapse.

Senator Michael Bennet, a Democrat of Colorado, and others have proposed a new federal regulatory body to oversee technology companies and new media, just as the Federal Communications Commission oversees old media. That makes sense to me.

Australia seems a step ahead of other countries in regulating deepfakes, and perhaps that’s in part because a Perth woman, Noelle Martin , was targeted at age 17 by someone who doctored an image of her into porn. Outraged, she became a lawyer and has devoted herself to fighting such abuse and lobbying for tighter regulations.

One result has been a wave of retaliatory fake imagery meant to hurt her. Some included images of her underage sister.

“This form of abuse is potentially permanent,” Martin told me. “This abuse affects a person’s education, employability, future earning capacity, reputation, interpersonal relationships, romantic relationships, mental and physical health — potentially in perpetuity.”

The greatest obstacles to regulating deepfakes, I’ve come to believe, aren’t technical or legal — although those are real — but simply our collective complacency.

Society was also once complacent about domestic violence and sexual harassment. In recent decades, we’ve gained empathy for victims and built systems of accountability that, while imperfect, have fostered a more civilized society.

It’s time for similar accountability in the digital space. New technologies are arriving, yes, but we needn’t bow to them. It astonishes me that society apparently believes that women and girls must accept being tormented by demeaning imagery. Instead, we should stand with victims and crack down on deepfakes that allow companies to profit from sexual degradation, humiliation and misogyny.

If you are having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for a list of additional resources.

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Nicholas Kristof became a columnist for The Times Opinion desk in 2001. He has won two Pulitzer Prizes, for his coverage of China and of the genocide in Darfur. @ NickKristof