Photo by Kristina Goncharova on Unsplash
I recently saw this video of Cardi B ranting on IG about how she’s no longer supporting Joe Biden or any other political candidates. This comes after a $100 million budget cut to New York’s schools, libraries, police, and sanitation all while America spends money overseas. It seems like she regrets having put her name behind someone she no longer supports. She probably feels used. And that got me thinking, why do we prioritize celebrities’ opinions? Why have stars evolved beyond their roles to influence and sell products? It’s a shift in the celebrity landscape, raising questions about their societal roles and commercial ventures.
The landscape of stardom has morphed drastically from the days when movie stars were merely icons on the silver screen. In today’s realm of celebrity culture, the lines between being a Hollywood figure and being a multifaceted entity have blurred. No longer is it sufficient to excel solely in the craft of acting; the modern celebrity juggles roles as a businessman, influencer, and often a vocal advocate for social and political causes.
The era of the traditional movie star, confined to the screen, has transformed into a paradigm where celebrities wield their influence beyond their performances. They are now seen as brands, entrepreneurs, and influential figures in various spheres. These individuals have diversified their portfolios, delving into business ventures, endorsements, and partnerships that extend far beyond their cinematic endeavors.
Moreover, the public’s expectation of celebrities has shifted. Audiences not only anticipate outstanding performances on-screen but also look to these figures for guidance and insight into the broader world. With the rise of social media, celebrities have direct access to their fan base, allowing them to broadcast their thoughts, beliefs, and social or political opinions instantly.
Recently, Selena Gomez faced scrutiny for her silence on the Israel-Palestine conflict. As a public figure, her neutral stance drew criticism, with some expecting her, like many celebrities, to voice support or risk condemnation. While some fans sought her perspective, others defended her right to choose when and how to engage in such complex issues. In the spotlight, celebrities often face pressure to take a stand, yet Selena’s decision to remain silent stirred debate, highlighting the intricate balance stars navigate between personal opinions and their public personas.
What’s intriguing is how stars like Zendaya stay silent on certain issues and still manage to have a thriving career. In a world where many celebrities speak out, her success stands out, showing that one can navigate stardom without constant public commentary, emphasizing the power of talent over vocal opinions.
This shift, where celebrities become active participants in socio-political discourse, has its positives and drawbacks. On one hand, their platforms serve as powerful tools for raising awareness and advocating for crucial issues. They leverage their influence to support various causes, from environmental conservation to social justice initiatives, mobilizing their vast audience toward positive change.
However, the expectation for celebrities to speak out on every issue, coupled with the dissemination of their views on a global scale, has sparked debates. Some argue that stars should stick to their craft and refrain from mingling their personal beliefs with their public personas. Others criticize the tendency for certain celebrities to wade into complex political debates without comprehensive understanding, potentially polarizing their audience or oversimplifying intricate matters.
It’s undeniable that the fusion of celebrity and activism has become an integral aspect of today’s cultural fabric. The public’s curiosity extends beyond a star’s performances; they seek alignment with figures whose values resonate with their own. Consequently, the demand for authenticity from these public figures has never been higher.
In this evolved realm of celebrity, the traditional boundary between personal and public life has dissolved. Celebrities now navigate a landscape where their private beliefs can significantly impact their public image and career trajectory. While some adeptly manage this balancing act, others find themselves under intense scrutiny or facing backlash for their outspokenness.
The days of movie stars confined to their cinematic roles are indeed a thing of the past. Today’s celebrities are multi-dimensional, wielding influence that extends far beyond their on-screen presence. Whether in business ventures, social advocacy, or political spheres, the modern celebrity landscape demands a multifaceted approach, where stardom transcends the silver screen and embraces a broader, more complex role in society.
When it comes to Cardi B, Selena Gomez, and other stars, it’s understandable why they might opt out of speaking on social and political matters. Frankly, I couldn’t care less about Cardi B’s political views—I want her to belt out ‘WAP’. The same goes for Selena; I’m not seeking her stance on Israel/Palestine, I need her as the wizard from Waverly Place. Let these celebs be and do what they’re here for—entertainment, not educating us on global affairs. For world issues, there’s always the news—Hollywood’s for escapism, isn’t it?