The Impact of Kim Kardashian on Beauty Standards in Hollywood
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Chapter 1: The Burden of Unrealistic Expectations
In the realm of celebrity culture, figures like Kim Kardashian often set unattainable standards of beauty for women. Their influence weighs heavily, creating a landscape where unrealistic expectations thrive.
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Section 1.1: The Celebrity Paradox
The world is filled with celebrities who seem to enjoy a life of unearned privilege. They are not necessarily malevolent or foolish, yet their presence can be irritating, akin to an itch you can’t scratch. One such figure is Kim Kardashian, often seen as a plastic corporate figurehead.
Kardashian's fame is indisputable, as she frequently graces magazine covers and television screens, promoting everything from perfumes to movie roles. She often attempts to portray a relatable image, such as her ferry ride to Staten Island to meet Pete Davidson, while paparazzi trail closely behind.
Debra Messing, a respected actress known for her role in Will & Grace, expressed her confusion over Kardashian's prominence when she tweeted: “Why Kim Kardashian? I know she is a cultural icon, but SNL typically features hosts promoting a project. Am I missing something?”
Kardashian’s response reflected her frustration: “A girl from Will & Grace said she has no idea why I would be chosen as a host, but it’s like, why do you care?” She added, “I don’t comment to tear people down, especially another female,” suggesting that the criticism only fuels her determination.
Section 1.2: The Reality of Role Models
But is Kardashian truly a role model for women? Her public persona often seems focused on projecting a provocative image rather than fostering a sense of empowerment. The entertainment industry excels at fostering negative comparisons, making many women feel inadequate about their appearances.
In Hollywood, men can often succeed without conforming to stringent beauty standards. Actors like John C. Reilly or Steve Buscemi maintain careers despite not fitting the traditional mold of attractiveness. Conversely, women are held to a grueling standard, where “average” often equates to “unattractive.”
The pressure can lead to desperate measures, from cosmetic procedures to extreme diets, all in an effort to achieve an ideal that may never be attainable. This cycle of self-deprecation can be devastating, leaving many women feeling like failures in comparison to stars like Kardashian.
Chapter 2: Embracing Self-Love and Acceptance
In stark contrast, comedian Margaret Cho has openly discussed her journey toward self-acceptance, stating, “I am so beautiful, sometimes people weep when they see me. It’s about giving myself the power to say that I am beautiful.” Cho's message resonates as a reminder that beauty is subjective and personal.
Yet, public figures like Kardashian often undermine this message, prioritizing profit over empowerment. Their relentless promotion of products perpetuates a narrative that discourages women from defining their own standards of beauty.
The first video titled Turning Barbie Into Kim Kardashian explores the transformation of beauty ideals through the lens of popular culture, emphasizing the unrealistic standards set by figures like Kardashian.
The second video, The Dark Side of Barbie, Kylie Jenner Denies Plastic Surgery Rumors, & More!, delves into the complexities of celebrity culture and its impact on societal perceptions of beauty.
P.S.: My latest essay, “Sorry Hollywood, You Can’t Make Good Art From Bad Stereotypes,” is available at Dismantle Magazine. Be sure to check it out.