Fame and Fandom: Functioning On and Offline

Celebrities and fans interact more than ever through social media, and fans feel they have a claim on their time, attention, and accountability. Fame and Fandom explores this dynamic through case studies including Supernatural, Harry Styles, YouTube influencers, film location sites, Keanu Reeves, and celebrities as fans.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2022
Publisher: University of Iowa Press

Celebrities rely heavily on their fan base to maintain their popularity and secure their livelihoods, and fans are more than willing to oblige. With the advent of social media, fans have gained unprecedented access to their favorite (or least favorite) celebrities, following their every move, glimpse into their lives, homes, and behind-the-scenes work. The interaction between fans and celebrities has reached new heights, with fans often feeling entitled to their time, attention, and accountability.

In their book "Fame and Fandom," the contributors delve into this complex and ever-evolving dynamic, merging celebrity studies and fan studies in ways never before seen. Through a series of case studies, including examples such as Supernatural, Harry Styles, YouTube influencers, film location sites, Keanu Reeves, and celebrities as fans, readers are offered fresh perspectives on fan/celebrity encounters and parasocial relationships. This comprehensive volume serves as a go-to resource for understanding the symbiotic relationship between fame and fandom.

The contributors to "Fame and Fandom" explore various aspects of this relationship, examining how celebrities use social media to connect with their fans, the impact of fan culture on celebrity identity, and the ways in which fans engage with celebrities on a personal level. They also explore the ethical implications of this relationship, such as the boundaries between fans and celebrities, the commodification of celebrity, and the impact of parasocial relationships on mental health.

One of the key themes of the book is the power of fandom to shape celebrity culture and influence public perception. Fans, often referred to as "fansites," play a significant role in creating and disseminating fan content, such as fan art, fan fiction, and fan videos. This fan content can shape the narrative surrounding a celebrity, influence their public image, and even influence their career decisions.

Another important aspect of the book is the role of celebrities as fans themselves. Many celebrities are active on social media and engage with their fans on a personal level, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of their lives, responding to fan questions, and even collaborating with fans on projects. This reciprocal relationship between celebrities and fans creates a sense of community and fosters a deeper understanding of the celebrity's personality and character.

However, the book also raises concerns about the negative effects of fame and fandom. For example, the pressure to maintain a perfect image can be detrimental to celebrities' mental health, and the constant scrutiny from fans can lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety. Additionally, the commodification of celebrity can lead to the exploitation of fans and the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes and expectations.

Despite these challenges, "Fame and Fandom" offers a hopeful perspective on the relationship between fame and fandom. The book highlights the positive impact that fans can have on celebrities' lives, such as providing support and encouragement during difficult times and promoting social change through their activism. It also emphasizes the importance of boundaries and respect in fan/celebrity interactions, and encourages fans to engage with celebrities in a responsible and ethical manner.

In conclusion, "Fame and Fandom" is a groundbreaking book that provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of the complex relationship between fame and fandom. By merging celebrity studies and fan studies, the contributors offer new perspectives on fan/celebrity encounters and parasocial relationships, and shed light on the power of fandom to shape celebrity culture and influence public perception. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of fame, media, and popular culture.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781609388553