We are facing a transformation in the entertainment industry and the way in which more and more public figures and celebrities choose to present themselves to the world. It is a movement towards authenticity and vulnerability, where the “human side” fosters deeper connections between celebrities and their audiences. It is about getting naked literally (appearing without filters, without makeup or production, or talking about mental health), or symbolically, through sharing aspects of oneself that at other times would have been hidden under the “perfect” and socially accepted image. by the public.
Why this radical change? A possible answer is that more and more people value authenticity and humanity, with all that this implies, and that both things are desirable and aspirational in this era. Just as before they were the perfect, the controlled, the unattainable, today they are the imperfect, the failed, the dynamic, the vulnerable. In times of Artificial Intelligence and technology that carries out different processes quickly and “without errors”, in contrast, the human, the failed, the artisanal become aspirational, as well as a washed face without makeup, compared to the fantasy that can create the use of filters that transform one’s own image on social networks. Thus, almost as if it were a “law” of aspiration, what is scarce is transformed into luxury in the minds of consumers and audiences and is valued as something desirable.
From the singer Kathy Perry, to Pamela Anderson, Alicia Keys or Jamie Lee Curtis, different celebrities Today they are encouraged to go out with a clean face, without makeup or dyes, and to show themselves on the networks in this way, as a sign of self-confidence, of acceptance of the “imperfections” of the skin (and of oneself), as well as the marks of time, wrinkles and gray hair. By showing their natural faces and image, they somehow challenge traditional standards of beauty and promote their authenticity as a key factor in building meaningful relationships in a world where the pressure for perfection remains overwhelming. In several of their latest presentations, the singer Rosalía and Lady Gaga appeared with clean faces, as a sign of maximum “humanity” and closeness to their audience.
Others celebrities “get naked” in aspects that go beyond the image and involve encouraging themselves to talk about mental health. For years this topic appeared silenced or if it was talked about it was because of the scandal, but as a trend, in the post-pandemic the entire world became more aware of well-being as a whole: body, mind, spirit and this involves mental health and taking care of her. Iconic figures have taken social media as platforms to share their stories of struggle and overcoming, normalizing conversations about anxiety, depression and other emotional challenges. From Dibu saying that he does therapy and that this helps him in his life in general and in his sports career as well, to Duki talking in his recitals that “men cry too” and that it is good to do so, to successful documentaries that show the mental health issues of different celebrities, such as the latest documentary by British pop star Robbie Williams where he confesses that fame caused him serious mental health problems. This openness to talking about themselves, on the one hand, generates curiosity in the public, but also a new empathy that, in many cases, brings new energy and new audiences to the star in question.
Finally, Another form of vulnerability is to publicly show other aspects of oneself than those for which they are recognized. The successful comedian Jim Carrey, the ex-Bond Pierce Brosnan, the actress Sharon Stone are also plastic artists with exhibitions in art galleries, as is the comedian Seth Rogen who is also a sculptor-ceramist or the aforementioned Pamela Anderson, who writes fiction and poetry, with great sales and critical results.
This act of bravery and sincerity not only humanizes these personalities, but also inspires millions to embrace their own imperfections. It is known that celebrities are public figures who are often at the center of media and social attention. His influence comes not only from his fame, but also from his ability to connect with his followers in an authentic and When they show their authenticity, they generate a genuine connection with their audience for several reasons:
- Relatability: By appearing authentic, celebrities become more approachable and accessible to their followers. This allows people to identify with them as they show facets of their lives that are common to many, such as facing challenges, fighting insecurity, or sharing their triumphs and failures.
- Empathy: Showing authenticity and vulnerability fosters empathy. When a celebrity shares their personal, emotional experiences or difficulties, they invite their audience to feel and understand their own struggles. This creates a powerful emotional bond.
- Inspiration and legitimacy: Authenticity gives legitimacy to a celebrity’s actions and messages. When they share their real stories, honest advice, or promote meaningful causes, it becomes more compelling and powerful. Their authenticity gives them a platform from which they can inspire and influence positively.
- Contrast with the perfect image: In a world where perfection and carefully crafted image are common, authenticity stands out. The more an artificial or idealized image is cultivated, the greater the surprise and impact when a public figure shows his or her most human and real side.
- Trust Building: Authenticity fuels trust. When celebrities are consistent with their authenticity, they gain the trust of their followers. This trust translates into loyalty and continued support for their projects, causes and products they promote.
For all these reasons, increasinglyace, Showing vulnerability is a trend and it is business. By sharing their struggles, successes and failures with authenticity, they create common ground that transcends fame and allows for a deeper, more lasting connection with those who follow them. When celebrities can be vulnerable and natural, they generate a back-and-forth with values that are growing, such as authenticity and transparency. A powerful message that transcends borders and cultures and that is aspirational for more and more consumers of flesh and blood, those human beings not so different at heart from those stars that inspire them.
#Co-founder and CEO of Youniversal.
by Ximena Díaz Alarcón
