A person who has become famous, especially one whose achievements or behavior have been publicized in the mass media. Celebrities are the subject of widespread interest, and many have built careers out of their fame, often at great cost to their personal lives. The term is derived from the Latin cultus, meaning “fame.” Its earliest meanings in English were pomp and ceremony, as in “the celebrity of a day” (in King Henry V), and the observance of special formality for an important occasion—as in “it was a celebrity that the party was thrown” (“Tis so, when we have eaten and drunk”).
Today’s celebrities have achieved fame through their work on television shows, films, music, fashion, sports, business, art, and more. They have a tremendous effect on the world around them, and their images are constantly evolving. They are the focus of news stories and dominate platforms like TMZ and Daily Pop, which give fans a space to react to and connect with celebrities.
Not everyone is a celebrity, though. For example, if Connie Stevens visited a senior citizens home they would probably know who she is, but the seniors wouldn’t consider her a celebrity. Celebrities have a certain amount of power to influence their audience and are therefore often considered narcissistic. A narcissist is someone who is obsessed with their own image and wants others to admire them. They often act as if they are above the laws of society.