How quickly times have changed! We remember a decade when we eagerly awaited the chance to catch a glimpse of our favorite actors on television or in the theater. Just seeing our beloved actors would amaze us. The stardom enjoyed by actors in the early 2000s was exceptional, and it was rare to see them anywhere other than on the big screen.
As much as we love to know what goes on behind the camera, we also wanted to know about the personal lives of our favourite actors. Shows like 'Rendezvous with Simi Garewal' provided us with a rare glimpse into the lives of our favourite actors, got to know their likes and dislikes and see the real people beyond their on-screen personas. Similarly, seeing an actor in real life can be like searching for a needle in a haystack.
But as the saying goes, good times don't last forever. When I was a kid, I had no idea that the digital world would change so quickly and that I would be able to be close to my favorite actors without having to be physically close to them.
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The invention of social media has changed the game for everyone, including the entertainment industry. Celebrities were the first to readily embrace social media and harness its immense influence.
At the same time, the widespread use of mobile phones and the explosion of social media usage have had a profound effect on people's behavior and created moments of excitement. Where once access to social media was limited, it is now ubiquitous. Today, it is difficult to find someone who does not use these platforms for personal or professional gain.
Social media influence:
Social media has democratized the way celebrities interact with their fans, providing them with unparalleled access and interaction. The changes brought about by social media have been profound. While this has made celebrities more relatable and able to connect with audiences, it has also changed the nature of fame. I'm sure many of us learned about the popular celebrity by watching his viral reels on Instagram or his viral vlogs on YouTube.
As we all know, technology has its pros and cons. Through social media, celebrities are often subject to intense scrutiny, challenges, trolls, overexposure, etc. But are they still reaping the benefits?
Advertising:
“Any publicity is good publicity,” said an anonymous intellectual. Every day, we see popular faces in the entertainment world turning to social media and leveraging it as much as possible, rather than relying solely on their professional accomplishments or genres. I think that in this day and age, social media has become an essential tool for modern advertising. Rather than relying on producers, celebrities are using their own strategies to promote their online presence.
Not only that, but social media is giving celebrities the power to control their own stories. In the past, celebrities relied on media portals to portray their images, but now through social media they can instantly set the record straight. By addressing rumors, clarifying controversial statements, and sharing their views on social issues, celebrities tick all the boxes when it comes to gaining attention. Apart from this, their valuable comments on controversial issues remain hidden from the public eye.
Leveraging these platforms allows celebrities to extend their influence beyond traditional media and fans. Whether it's creating a viral song reel or jumping on a trend, celebrities feel they are doing everything they can to reach people who might not have come across their work otherwise.
Monetization and Authenticity:
Who doesn't like an opportunity and doesn't want to make the most of it? Not us, not even the richest celebrities. Audiences today place great value on the authenticity and relatability of their idols. When celebrities accumulate millions of followers, they strive to remain raw and authentic while entertaining their online audience.
Despite their primary focus being to make money from sponsored posts, brand partnerships, and personal product lines, celebrities never compromise on their authenticity, which has helped them stay relevant even in this competitive era.
Along with reaping the benefits of social media, celebrities can also promote their projects directly to their fans. It's like having a personal billboard that millions of people can see instantly. Whether it's a movie, album, or merchandise, a well-timed post or story can drive huge attention and boost sales.
Social media allows celebrities to give fans a glimpse into their lives beyond the spotlight. They provide updates on their whereabouts, peeks into their homes, and reveal their favorite pastimes, movies, and activities to better connect with their followers. This activity not only increases your visibility but also allows you to share your artistry with a wider audience.
In my opinion, artists are known for their talent and dedicated audiences, and those who have that can thrive regardless of the medium, but staying agile is key to sustaining your career in an environment where today's stars can quickly become yesterday's news.
