A celebrity is a person who has achieved fame or popularity, often due to their appearance, talent, occupation or other aspects of their lives. The word is an anglicization of the Latin term for “celebrant,” meaning a public figure who receives special attention and admiration from people other than their close friends and family members. The word is most closely associated with people in the entertainment industry, but famous politicians, athletes and other public figures can also be considered celebrities. Celebrities usually attract a large following and draw considerable media attention.
Celebrities are often idolized by their fans, who consider them to be role models for behavior and style. They may also serve as inspiration for the fashion choices of their followers, and can influence the development of fads and trends. Celebrities can be a positive influence on a society by promoting ethical values and acting as philanthropists. They can also help improve people’s communication skills as they interact with fans and share information about their careers and personal lives.
Almost anyone can become a celebrity, thanks to the advent of mass media. For example, many people who compete in reality shows become famous for a brief time, though the amount of attention they receive tends to be limited. This is referred to as being a “fleeting celebrity.” Some celebrities achieve fame for their acting or musical talent, while others are famous simply for their looks.
Actors who have starred in popular movies and television series become famous for their work. For instance, Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson became well-known for their roles in the Harry Potter and the Hunger Games, and Robert Downey Jr and Jennifer Lawrence are famous for their performances in movies such as Captain America and The Avengers. Some actors also pursue singing careers, such as Madonna and Miley Cyrus.
Singers can also become famous for competing in singing competitions like the X Factor or Eurovision Song Contest. Bands that have a large following can also become famous, such as One Direction and the Spice Girls. When bands break up, members of the group will often continue their careers as solo artists.
People who have a lot of money can become celebrities through their business ventures. For example, many stars earn a lot of money for endorsements on products such as sports clothing, IT technology and alcoholic drinks. They may also perform at large concerts, which can bring in millions of dollars.
Despite their wealth, celebrities are still influenced by the opinions of their fans and the media. They may be pressured to change their behavior or appearance to fit certain expectations, or they may suffer from mental health problems because of the pressures placed on them. They are also exposed to more negative aspects of their lives than non-celebrities, which can lead them to feel a sense of envy or discontent. They can also be negatively affected by the way they are portrayed in the media, such as by false stories and sex scandals.