Celebrities, as we know them today, are much more common than they were hundreds of years ago, with anyone possessing the power to become one if they truly desire. Today, you, your neighbour, your cousin’s dog or even your high school P.E. teacher can become a celebrity overnight through social media. All it takes is one viral post and you’ve made it- you're famous. But why are we so enthralled with ‘The Celebrity’? What causes this obsession we all seem to have with them and how has this changed since the expansion of technology?
Many influential and psychological factors potentially explain our obsession with the famous, from our desire for escapism and entertainment, idolisation of wealth and fame, or simply just plain fascination with these individuals who seem wholly superior to us in every way.
However much we may occasionally resent them, for their lack of knowledge about the real world or their damaging air miles, we still have their posters plastered all over our bedroom walls.
I personally believe that our obsession with 'the Celebrity' derives from our desire to distract ourselves from everyday boredom. We keep up with celebrity gossip and drama because it's fickle and entertaining. And perhaps on a deeper level, we crave parasocial relationships with our favourite celebs; we know that when they tell us they 'love us' they really have no idea that we exist, but we still feel a sense of validation.
Due to the rise of technology and social media, we've come far from the days of Pharaoh worship or the craze of the Beatlemania. We've now reached the point where celebrities are no longer rare and unattainable, but living amongst us all.