The Changing Face of Fame: From New Wave Cinema to TikTok Stars
In the ever-evolving world of fame and celebrity, new waves constantly emerge, sweeping away the old and ushering in the new. From cinema to poetry, painting to singing, these waves shape our perception of what it means to be famous. One such pioneer of the “new wave” in French cinema was Claude Lelouch, who now, at the age of eighty-five, reveals that he has fathered a child with his fourth wife. While this may seem shocking, it serves as a reminder that even in the realm of fame, there is nothing truly new, only variations on a theme.
The philosophy of fame has undergone a dramatic shift in the modern world. Gone are the days when one had to be a Julius Caesar, a Cleopatra, or a Youssef Bey Wahbi to capture the public’s attention. Today, the spotlight shines on Mrs. Kim Kardashian, who boasts a staggering 170 million followers. These stars, or “stars” as they are called in the realms of “Tik Tok” and “Fashionista,” have redefined what it means to be famous. And for those like myself who were unaware, “Tik Tok” is not a three-dimensional Thai taxi, but rather a platform that has become a breeding ground for new celebrities.
In fact, I recently stumbled upon an article about Kim Kardashian in the Times Literary Supplement, which introduced me to the philosophy of the “new fame.” It seems that in this era, one does not necessarily have to possess any particular talent or skill to achieve fame. Take, for example, Mrs. Kardashian’s younger sister, who has amassed a billion-dollar fortune before even reaching the age of twenty-one. How did she do it? By simply changing the size of her lips and becoming an important figure on “Tik Tok.” It appears that fame can be a mere tactic, rather than a reflection of true accomplishment.
Professor Jihad Bazzi of Al-Modon argues that Haifa Wehbe, a prominent model, achieved fame without even singing or acting. Her beauty alone was enough to captivate audiences. The rise of music videos and clips has transformed them into a lucrative industry, generating millions without the need for any actual vocal talent. Directors have even discovered that the profits from their first clips are enough to fund political campaigns. In this age of image without sound, it seems that proficiency is no longer a requirement for fame.
Comparing the fortunes of modern singers, who rely on a combination of sound, image, and “Tik Tok” melodies, to the likes of legendary singer Fayrouz reveals a stark contrast. After sixty years in the industry and being one of the most famous names in the East since Umm Kulthum, Fayrouz’s fortune, which includes earnings from radio broadcasts of her songs, amounts to a modest $28 million. Meanwhile, modern singers can amass fortunes ranging from $40 to $60 million. The common denominator here is the emphasis on appearance, with puffy lips and other signs of enhancement becoming the key to wealth and success.
However, no fortune can compare to the staggering $1.2 billion earned by real-life star Kim Kardashian in America, along with her sister and other family members. The Kardashian empire has become a symbol of the new fame, where image and strategic branding reign supreme.
Each era brings forth a new wave that cancels out the previous ones. Even the great Egyptian writer Tawfiq al-Hakim, who once expressed jealousy towards soccer players and their salaries, would be astounded by the fame of Mohamed Salah. Salah’s followers now surpass the readership of literary seasons in half a century, highlighting the shifting tides of fame and the power of social media.
As we navigate this ever-changing landscape of fame, it is clear that the old notions of talent and accomplishment have been replaced by a new set of rules. Whether it be through “Tik Tok” or strategic image enhancement, the path to fame has been redefined. Only time will tell what the next wave will bring and how it will shape our perception of celebrity.
What are the challenges and implications of relying on social media fame for artists in terms of maintaining relevance and artistic integrity
Traditional album release or concert tour. This new wave of fame has shifted the focus from artistic talent to personality and social media presence.
The accessibility of social media platforms like TikTok has democratized fame, allowing ordinary individuals to gain widespread recognition and influence. A viral dance routine or comedic skit can propel an average person into overnight stardom. The formula for success no longer relies solely on industry connections or a lucky break but on one’s ability to captivate and engage with online audiences.
This phenomenon has also blurred the lines between fame and infamy. Individuals can achieve notoriety through controversial or outrageous behavior, attracting attention and followers in the process. The allure of capturing the public’s fascination has become a driving force for many aspiring stars.
However, the changing landscape of fame also raises questions about its sustainability. With an oversaturated market and short attention spans, it has become increasingly difficult to maintain relevance and longevity. The constant need for content creation and engagement puts pressure on individuals to constantly reinvent themselves and stay ahead of the curve.
Additionally, the ephemeral nature of online fame can result in a lack of substance or depth. Traditional avenues for artistic expression, such as cinema or music, often require years of training and dedication. The rise of social media stars has led some to question the validity and value of their contributions to society.
In conclusion, the face of fame is constantly evolving. From the early days of cinema to the rise of TikTok stars, the definition of fame has shifted from talent and accomplishment to personality and presence. While this democratization of fame allows for new voices and perspectives to be heard, it also raises questions about the sustainability and substance of this newfound celebrity. As we navigate this ever-changing landscape, it is important to critically examine the impact and implications of the new wave of fame.
